During the time of a recent study published in The Annals of Epidemiology, there was at least one veteran who committed suicide each day.Putting your own life at risk for the freedom and protection of millions of other lives is one of the most selfless and courageous gestures a person could make.However, it seems like every day there's an article featuring yet another veteran who has taken his or her life after returning home from overseas. Does this mean there's a flaw within America's healthcare system and how returning soldiers are being taken care of?Veteran's suicide has been one of the most controversial topics that doctors, researchers and families of veterans have been discussing for many years.In fact, a recent study published in the February issue of the Annals of Epidemiology highlighted this issue. Thousands of military personnel's lives have been taken due to suicide. The study looked at all 1,282,074 veterans who served in active duty units between 2001-2007 and who also left the military during that time period. Researchers matched military records with the National Death Index, which collects data on all the deaths that occur within the U.S. Researchers tracked the veterans after service until the end of 2009.Researchers found a total of 1,868 suicides, which compares to an annual suicide rate of 29.5 per 100,000 veterans (approximately 50 percent higher). During the time of this study, there was at least one veteran who committed suicide each day.This past February, President Obama signed the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, which is aimed to reduce the amount of suicides among returning veterans and help improve their access to mental health care.Is it possible to reduce military suicides?If you or a loved one is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please don't hesitate to reach out for help to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1.800.273.8255. You are not alone.In this segment, Michael Schoenbaum, PhD, shares a compelling study on the lives of veterans returning home from serving, as well as why so many of them might be turning to suicide.

A whopping 88 percent of U.S. adults have gambled at some point in their life; but when does it turn into a problem?According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, approximately three million American adults have a gambling addiction. Damon Dye, EdD, sheds some light on what gambling addiction really is and what you can do to help yourself or a loved one who’s addicted. A gambling addiction is similar to drug or alcohol addiction, because biochemical changes happen in the brain that make it nearly impossible for the addict to control or modify their behavior. Damon Dye, a licensed mental health professional and a National Board Approved Clinical Consultant for the National Council on Problem Gambling, estimates that a gambling addiction affects around three percent of the population. Between 95 and 97 percent of people can gamble without becoming addicted.Casual vs. ProblematicSo, how can you tell when your gambling habits have crossed from recreational to addictive? Most gambling is done socially, so signs you may be addicted can include things like hiding your gambling, spending money you can’t afford to lose, selling items just to fund your gambles, and letting the time spent gambling affect your social, work, and family life. There are two main types of gambling. The first is action gambling, which includes sports betting and dog track racing, and focuses on the action and thrill of all the commotion. The second type is called escape, and includes the more private gambling like slot machines. With either type of gambling, money becomes a vehicle for the problem; you can make huge wagers and win big, or lose big. Even if you win, you may still be addicted if you are sacrificing important work or family time to be there.Identifying and Treating Gambling AddictionUnlike gambling, an alcohol or drug addiction can be easier to spot because it affects you physically and mentally. Gambling is less apparent because it’s hidden deep within the mind. Potential red flags you may notice include a personality change, discrepancies with money, no sense of trust, or something you just can’t place your finger on. Lying about gambling and betting more than you intended also indicate that help is needed.Treatment for gambling addiction is similar to drugs and alcohol. Dye recommends a family use as many resources as you can find to get started. You can use a Gambler’s Anonymous group, find a professional counselor, or both. Sometimes, the chance of developing an addiction is increased with certain underlying factors like ADD, depression, or bipolar disorder. Getting a specialist to rule these elements out will help you treat it more accordingly. Lastly, if you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, please call 1.800.522.4700 for support. In the accompanying audio segment, Damon Dye, EdD, LMHC, BACC, shares why gambling addictions, even though very prevalent, aren't taken as serious as other addictions, as well as how to spot the warning signs.

Heart disease is the number-one killer for both men and women but can be highly preventable.Even with the progression of understanding heart disease, it's still the number-one killer among men and women. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 610,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every year. That's one in every four deaths.The good news is, heart disease can be prevented. Depending on whether your doctor has encouraged new and healthy behaviors, or if you have a known history of heart disease in your family, you might be able to turn your life around in just eight weeks.How can you improve your heart health in such little time?You can make a HUGE difference in just a short period of time, and it all starts with getting just a little more active. Recently, studies have shown the dangers of sitting too long and how it can damage your health as much as smoking. However, by getting up and walking frequently, you can reduce your blood pressure and cholesterol, boost weight loss, reduce your risk of cancer, and optimize your mental health.Another way you can improve your heart health is through dietary changes. For years, doctors plagued cholesterol as the number one contributor to heart disease. Now, doctors are suggesting cholesterol isn't so bad after all. Staying away from processed foods that are high in sugar and fat, however, is a must for reducing your risk of heart disease.What else can you do to improve your health and live longer?James Beckerman, MD, joins host Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the dangerous risks associated with heart disease, as well as how you can improve your heart health in just eight weeks.

When was the last time you tried something new with your partner?Being in a loving relationship can be such an euphoric time. As you grow into your relationship, everything new can be exciting, and before you even realize it, you're head over heels.However, depending on how long you've been with your partner, you might find that life has thrown just about every curveball at your relationship; you have a demanding job, you're involved in social clubs, you may have a kid (or two)... all leaving you little room for intimacy.Romance in your relationship might have found a more comforting level, which might have put a halt to you and your partners sex life. However, on romantic holidays, like an anniversary,  it can create an overwhelming pressure and expectation for you to show affection, appreciation, and achieve the best sex ever. It might also be a great time to ask yourself, when was the last time you and your partner tried something new?Not to worry, there are five ways you can reinvigorate your love life and give you an opportunity to try something new in the bedroom with your partner.What are these five things to reinvigorate your love life? Keep boredom out of the bedroom. Give yourself permission to try something new. Pay attention to your body's rhythms. Don't confine sex to the nighttime. Look into alternative sex practices. Dudley Danoff, MD, FACS, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss five ways you can reinvigorate your love life.

Three out of four women experience a yeast infection at some point in their lives.If you've ever experienced a yeast infection, you know how uncomfortable the symptoms are. You may also remember how embarrassed you may have felt, and that you didn't want to discuss it with anyone... even your doctor.However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 75 percent of all adult women have had at least one yeast infection at some point. A yeast infection is a type of vaginitis (inflammation of your vagina) that occurs when the natural bacteria and yeast in your vagina are disrupted and cause excess yeast, which leads to an infection.What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?Symptoms associated of a yeast infection include itching, irritation in and around your vagina, burning, swelling, redness, vaginal pain, soreness, and a thick odor-free discharge. It's important to note that if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor right away to rule out the possibility of any other serious health concerns like an STD.Is there a way you can prevent a yeast infection from happening?Unfortunately, you may not be able to fully protect yourself from getting a yeast infection; but, there are certain things you can do to help lower your chances. For example, avoid tight-fitting pants and undergarments, only wear cotton underwear (at least a cotton panel in the crotch area), avoid sitting around in your sweaty workout gear or wet swimsuit, avoid using scented lotions, lubricants, creams and body washes, always wipe yourself from front to back, and try to incorporate probiotics into your diet (they give your body the healthy gut bacteria that can help prevent yeast infections from occurring).How do you treat a yeast infection?Once you've seen your doctor, you may be wondering what the next step is for treating your yeast infection. Some of the medications and creams your doctor prescribes may burn and only add to the discomfort. However, there are many OTC options that can help.What else do you need to know about yeast infections?Rebecca Posten, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the embarrassing symptoms you may be experiencing, how to lower your chances of getting a yeast infection, and what kinds of treatment options are available.

Halloween can be fun and exciting for you and your children, but can cause stress and anxiety for your pets.Halloween can be a fun and exciting time for your family. You may also think to include your cat or dog in the Halloween dress-up and trick-or-treat rituals. Or, if you're in charge of candy distribution this year, you may think strangers in costumes constantly ringing the doorbell won't be a problem for your companion.However, without following safety precautions, your playful Halloween night could turn into a real-life nightmare with your pet seriously injured or sick.What specific candies are especially dangerous to your pets?When it comes to candy, you don't necessarily have to worry about your cat as much as you do your dog. Anything within mouth (or paw reach) such as chocolate, raisins, pumpkins, cookies, and other treats can be extremely toxic to your dog if ingested in large amounts. You also want to be careful of candy wrappers that are carelessly tossed in your house or throughout your neighborhood. Your dog doesn't have the ability (or the patience) to tear open each candy and will just eat the whole thing.What if you're passing out candy... should you allow your pet near the front door?Cats and dogs who are prone to noise sensitivity might want to become escape artists this Halloween and bolt out your front door to escape the constant ringing of your doorbell and loud kids shouting at your door. Because of this, you may want to consider keeping your cat and dog away from the front door. Putting up baby gates in your hallway or keeping your pets in a separate room can help ease anxiety, excitement and from them wanting to make a run for it.What if you want to take your pet with you outside for trick-or-treating?Before you decide to bring your dog on the walk with you and your children while trick-or-treating, you have to be sure you know your dog. Not only do you have to worry about the cars in the street, you have to consider the large groups of children, pre-teens, and other parents who may frighten or induce anxiety in your dog. This may cause your dog to nibble or bite someone.What about pet costumes?If you're dressing your pet up, be sure that the costume is fitted properly without any loose articles that your pet can get tangled in, or on too tight that they could potentially have trouble walking or choke on.What else do you need to know about pet safety during Halloween?Emmy Award winning veterinarian, Dr. Jeff Werber, shares with Melanie Cole, MS, important safety precautions for your pets during Halloween.

Gum graft surgery is a procedure where tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth and used to help treat your infected gums.Maintaining dental hygiene is crucial for your overall health. Not only do you depend on your mouth for breathing, but it's also the opening where food enters and digests into your intestines. When your mouth isn't taken care of, you could increase your risk of developing several oral infections and diseases.For instance, periodontal disease happens when plaque continues to build up and hardens on your gum line and causes your gums to swell. Usually, brushing and flossing can help get rid of access plaque, but can quickly form in your mouth within 24 hours. The longer the plaque is left in your mouth, the harder it is to get rid of.What are some symptoms of periodontal disease?If you have swollen and bright red gums, if your gums are tender to touch, receding gums, new spaces between your teeth, bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, and if your teeth are loose, then you might have periodontal disease.Is gum graft surgery the right treatment option?Gum graft is a half-hour to hour-long procedure that helps regenerate gum tissue at the infected and inflamed areas of your gums to help ease painful symptoms.What are the different types of gum graft surgery?Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor will decide which gum graft surgery is best for you. There are three different types of gum graft surgery, one of them being connective-tissue gum graft, which is the most commonly used. This is used to treat the root exposure of your gums. The second is pedicle grafts, where tissue is grafted from another part of your gums for the specific area that needs treatment. Lastly, free gingival grafts, which involves the root tissue of your mouth being attached to the part of your gum that needs treatment.What is the healing and recovery process like?Within the first 24 hours of your procedure it is fine for you to eat soft foods such as smoothies, pasta or potato or tuna salad, and applesauce. However, it is important that you stay away from using straws, so there isn't any sucking action that can damage the tissue in your mouth. You want to avoid hard, crunchy foods like pretzels, chips, and nuts for the first week.What else do you need to know about periodontal disease and gum graft surgery?President of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), Joan Otomo-Corgel, DDS, MPH, shares what periodontal disease is, and why you might benefit from gum graft surgery.

Medical aid in dying is a controversial topic. Should terminally ill patients be allowed to decide their death?If you've been told you have a terminal illness and your time is limited, your whole life can flash in front of you. It can also turn your world completely upside down. The journey ahead may be painful, uncertain, terrifying and extremely emotional. Trying to live a "normal" life may not be possible anymore.If you knew you were going to die a painful and slow death in the months to come, would you consider medical aid in dying?29-year-old Brittney Maynard learned she has a rare brain cancer that left her with six months to live. Just newly married and trying for a family, Maynard's life as she knew it was over. There is no cure that is going to save her life. The radiation she would need would deteriorate her quality of life, and instead of being able to enjoy her last living months, her days would be spent bedridden and unpalatable.She has stated several times that she does not want to die, but she is dying and she wants to go on her terms... peacefully with her family at her side. She has decided to seek medical aid in dying, and plans to die November 1, 2014.What exactly is aid in dying?Medical aid in dying offers mentally competent terminally ill adults with less than six months to live the choice to request the option for lethal medication that would end their life.What states allow aid in dying?Currently, there are five states that allow aid in dying. These states include Oregon, Washington, Montana, Vermont, and New Mexico. There are several other states that are considering bills to authorize and regulate aid in dying.Why is it important for people like Brittney to be able to seek medical aid in dying?It's hard to hear news of someone you love's life is limited to just months. You may want them to be around for as long as they can so you can still enjoy their presence. But, battling the last months of life while suffering can be horribly unbearable.Wouldn't you want an option available to die peacefully, rather than painfully and slowly over time? Even though medical aid in dying isn't for everyone, it can be an important choice to be able to exercise that option for those who are in such a situation.Why is aid in dying such a controversial topic to discuss?National Medical Director for Compassion and Choices, Judy Neall Epstein, ND, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss what aid in dying is, why someone like Brittney would choose medical aid in dying, and why this is such a controversial topic.

Is the U.S. really prepared if an Ebola outbreak was to occur?When the news first broke about a deadly virus in Western Africa in March, you might have paid little attention. Over the last few months, the virus has taken thousands of lives. But you still may not have felt threatened.Until now.Currently, five Ebola victims are in the United States for treatment. This may have caused you to question if you're truly safe.Who are these fateful five?The first to arrive were medical missionaries Nancy Writebol and Dr. Kent Brantly. Both had been serving in Africa and were transported back to the U.S. to seek medical treatment for Ebola. They received an experimental drug, ZMapp, and have been Ebola-free ever since.Another doctor and missionary, Dr. Rick Sacra, was flown in from Africa and taken to a Nebraska hospital. He was treated for Ebola over a three-week period.Thomas Eric Duncan, a Liberian man, began showing symptoms of Ebola after visiting his family for a couple of weeks in the U.S. He is fighting for his life in a Dallas hospital, while his family anxiously awaits the potential risk of more outbreaks between them.The most recent patient, Ashoka Mukpo, an NBC journalist, arrived this morning (October 6, 2014) from Liberia. He is also currently at a Nebraska hospital to seek medical treatment.Now that Ebola is in the U.S, you might be wondering... is this the beginning of the end?Ebola, which was previously known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever, is a serious and often fatal disease that causes fever, sore throat, muscle weakness and soreness, and internal bleeding. Symptoms usually occur between seven to 21 days after exposure.How can you differentiate flu symptoms from Ebola symptoms?There are two triggers that can help determine if you have Ebola or just the common flu. One is having direct exposure, which for the moment primarily exists in western parts of African countries. The second? Even if you haven't been in those areas, you quite possibly may have had contact with someone who has and is carrying Ebola.Which raises concern with Duncan, the patient who was visiting from Liberia. He had contact with his family members and others; up to a total of 50 people. Health officials are closely monitoring these individuals.How is Ebola spread?Even though you might have been hearing that Ebola could be airborne, it can only be spread through bodily fluids. This includes (but is not limited to) spit/saliva, urine, vomit, semen, and/or feces. This also means you would have to touch the blood or body fluids of a person who is sick or has died from Ebola and have contact with your mouth, eyes, or nose in order for you to become infected.It's important to know that Ebola can live on surfaces, but the life span is limited to a few hours. But, the blood from someone who has Ebola that has dried on blankets or towels, or the virus that is located in the body of someone infected, can live from two to seven days.Once these patients are treated, does that mean they are immune to Ebola for life?Unfortunately, there are several strains of Ebola, and even though several patients have been treated, it doesn't mean they aren't "exempt" from contracting the other strains.Is the U.S. really prepared if an Ebola outbreak was to occur?Director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness, Dr. Irwin Redlener, joins host Melanie Cole to discuss how Ebola is spread, how you can differentiate Ebola symptoms from the flu, and if the U.S. is really prepared if an Ebola outbreak comes to fruition.

Contrary to popular belief, marijuana can actually disrupt your sleep pattern and cause greater sleep problems to arise.According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, marijuana is the most common illicit drug used in the United States. In fact, usage among adolescents has been on the rise since 2007. Many states have legalized marijuana usage; but, do you really know what it's doing to your health?A study conducted by researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania suggests marijuana usage could be associated with impaired sleep quality, especially if you've been using the drug since your teenage years.Prior studies have shown that many use marijuana as a sleep and stress aid to help relax. However, recent research suggests that marijuana can actually disrupt your sleep pattern and cause greater sleep problems.The researchers used adults ranging from 20-59 years old that responded to a 2007-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). In this survey, a history of marijuana usage was assessed (participants' history of the drug, age of their first time using the drug, number of times used in the past month, etc.).Researchers found that those who had a history of marijuana use also experienced an increased difficulty of falling asleep, struggled to stay asleep, experienced non-restorative sleep, and felt tired throughout the day.What else do you need to know about marijuana and your quality of sleep?Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry, Michael Grandner, PhD, further discusses this study, other side effects of marijuana that could be implementing your health and how marijuana could be getting in your way of a good night's sleep.

Your pet brings many other health benefits besides unconditional and loyal love.If you have a dog or cat, you may already know the wonderful perks of having a furry companion. The happy greeting as soon as you come home from work, the endless kisses, and the comfort of a snuggle can make you appreciate each day.Whether you're a cat or dog (or maybe small rodent or reptile) person, there are numerous health benefits to owning a pet. Your pet brings many other health benefits besides unconditional and loyal love. Studies have shown that having a pet lowers blood pressure, reduces your stress and anxiety, boosts your immunity, and boosts your mood. What are some health benefits associated with pet ownership?Pet allergies are the most common allergies and can often trigger asthma. However, studies have found that animals, specifically cats in your home, can help you develop immunity to asthma and other allergies. Also, according to a study that was published in the Journal of Physical Activity, dog owners walk an average of four walks a week, which can amount to 160 minutes of physical activity. Being physically active can also have many perks to a healthy and happy life. 9 Health Benefits of Pet Ownership: Natural mood enhancers Helps your blood pressure stay in check Lowers your cholesterol Boosts heart health Helps develop immunity to asthma Helps fight depression Helps you stay active Pets help children and young teens overcome limitations Helps build immunity to allergies What are some of the other health benefits of pet ownership?Dr. Jeff Werber joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share the nine health benefits of pet ownership and why pets can boost your health and happiness.

What do you need to do to make sure you are able to retire?Have you dreamed of your retirement since you started your first day of work? Some days it can seem like your retirement is a far-fetched fantasy that you will never see. However, this does not mean you shouldn't know your options and begin planning for that day.Unfortunately, researching the options of retirement can be confusing, which can lead to unrealistic planning of your future. In fact, according to the Federal Reserve, one in five people who are near the average retirement age have ZERO money saved. Also included in the study conducted by the Federal Reserve: 41 percent of people between the ages of 18-29 said they have never thought about retirement.Not saving enough money is one of the biggest retirement mistakes you can make.Why does it seem people aren't concerned with their retirement planning?It may seem foolish to not save money for your retirement, but not many people have that option. If you're stuck at a job earning low wages, or can only work part-time, your current paychecks could be going to things necessary in order to survive (food, rent, bills, etc.). Thinking about retirement might not even be an option. But, you could put away a very small amount every time a paycheck comes so you have at least a little bit of money saved.  What are some other retirement mistakes?Another retirement mistake many people make is assuming that you have control over when you will retire. You may have this idea in your head that you are going to retire at a specific age. However, what if an unexpected illness occurs where you need to quit your job? What if there is a major downsize at the company where you work? The truth is, you never really know what to expect at any job (and life), so it's always important to start saving any amount of money at an early age.The eight BIGGEST retirement mistakes: Not saving enough Assuming you have control over when you will retire Ignoring tax impact Unexpected medical costs Failing to lock up lifetime income Retiring too soon Drawing down retirement savings too rapidly Underestimating longevity Journalist and finance author, Dan Kadlec, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the biggest retirement mistakes and what you can do to prevent them.

What are some things you can do to help promote healthy sleep while you're away from home?When you have to travel for work, or if you're finally on your way to a vacation, one of the biggest concerns of your trip might be getting enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults need roughly seven to eight hours of sleep each night.But, long travel delays, uncomfortable seating in a plane, car or train, missing the comfort of your own bed, and crossing time zones that cause jet lag can cause you to miss out on some much-needed shuteye.What exactly is jet lag?Jet leg happens when your internal clock is disrupted when you travel across time zones, which can cause extreme fatigue, insomnia and irritability.How can you maintain healthy sleep while traveling?Sadly, there is no way around traveling; but there are some things you can do to help promote healthy sleep while you are on the road (or in the air) and at an unfamiliar hotel.While packing your luggage, be sure to include earplugs and a face mask to ensure you have a quiet and dark place to sleep. If you're someone who has a hard time falling asleep in any other bed than your own, you may want to consider bringing a pillowcase or throw blanket to bring at least part of your bedroom to your hotel room.It can also be helpful if you're traveling from West to East (from California to New York, for instance) to take a natural sleep aid while flying. However, be mindful when doing this. You're already shortening your day, so by taking a sleeping aid or daytime naps can further disrupt your sleep pattern.What else can you do to sleep better while you travel?Dr. Lydia M. Wytrzes joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss why you may have trouble falling asleep while traveling, the importance of maintaining a healthy sleep while traveling and ways you can overcome your jet lag.

If you have an emergency but cannot be reached by an ambulance, what are your options?What if you or a loved one had an emergency trauma but were out of reach of an ambulance? Are you able to be airlifted to the nearest hospital?CareFlight is a growing medical advancement that gives you quick and safe transportation 24 hours a day to the nearest hospital when you are unable to drive and don't have access to an ambulance.Miami Valley Hospital (MVH) started using CareFlight services in 1983 and currently serves over 200 hospitals and more than 700 fire and police departments. CareFlight is also equipped with mobile intensive care units (ICU) that have up-to-date medical technology and top emergency practitioners.When would you need to call CareFlight?Typically, CareFlight is used in any trauma: motor vehicle accidents, if you've fallen from a significant height, shootings or stabbings, and heart attacks or strokes.How much does CareFlight cost?Unfortunately, using CareFlight can be a little more expensive than an ambulance; but oftentimes can be your only option. Each transportation cost is different. There is a base loading fee as well as a per mileage fee incorporated into your bill; however, through third party payers, the cost is well reimbursed.What else do you need to know about the CareFlight program?Director of Miami Valley Hospital CareFlight Air and Mobile Program, Dr. Andrew Hawk, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss what the CareFlight Air and Mobile Program is, why it would be needed and how it's helping save many lives in emergency situations.

September is National Preparedness Month. Do you know the tools you need if an emergency occurs?Throughout the years, there have been many notable tragedies all over the world that have left many without their homes, family members or resources to survive.It's hard to predict when a natural disaster will occur; but that doesn't mean you shouldn't be prepared for when it does.The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security which sustains that all citizens -- together as a nation -- can prepare, protect, respond and recover from any natural disaster or hazard. FEMA recommends that you use all your resources available to stay connected and safe during a natural disaster. Your smartphone offers a world of knowledge and information, right at your fingertips. Keeping your phone at hand is second nature, so why not take the time to turn it into a life-saving device in times of emergencies?Smartphones are capable of incredible things, and staying connected during a disaster is one of them. Many phones have access to certain apps to help guide you to a shelter, updates on weather, and tools such as a flashlight.It's also just as important that you have an emergency kit located in your home just in case an emergency happens. Your kit should include a weather radio, food, water, extra batteries, flashlights, a contact list, and extra warm clothes or blankets.What other tips are recommended to help prepare for a natural disaster? Program important phone numbers into your contacts. Make sure your contact list includes friends, loved ones and anyone else you may need to rely on or reach out to in the event of a disaster. Include doctors, pharmacies, day care and dog walker contacts to ensure you can take care of yourself and your family's needs. Plan to use text messaging. During and after a disaster, phone lines usually become overwhelmed. Texting can help you check on your friends and family, leaving the phone lines open for emergency use. Retain power, even when power is out. Consider investing in solar powered or hand-crank chargers, and/or external cell batteries to extend the life of your smartphone in case of a blackout. You can also conserve your cell phone's battery power by lowering the brightness and turning your phone to airplane mode. Use social media to stay informed. Connect with your state and local public health and emergency management agencies on Facebook and Twitter to stay up-to-date on safety information before, during and after a disaster. Using social media can also help you stay connected to loved ones if you are separated. Identify your important documents and electronically store them in a safe space. Scan important records such as household records, medical records and financial documents, and save the files on a flash drive. You may also want to password-protect the data you have stored in case of loss or theft. Store the backup records in a safe deposit box or other off-site location. What else do you need to know about how to prep for a disaster?External Affairs Specialist with FEMA, Carolyn Deming, shares why it's important to have a plan of action in case of a natural disaster, as well as ways to use your smartphones and social media to enhance readiness during a natural disaster.

What information do you need to know before pursuing a medical malpractice suit?Medical malpractice is professional negligence by a healthcare provider. It occurs when a specific treatment provided falls below accepted standards of practice in the medical community and results in an injury or death in the patient receiving the treatment.It is often seen in outpatient care centers.These centers can seem appealing for certain procedures, since they can offer benefits of convenience and affordability. However, some outpatient centers may not have the proper equipment or staff on standby, ready to deal with an emergency.According to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), medical negligence is the third leading cause of death in the United States.Joan Rivers, 81, went into cardiac and respiratory arrest at an outpatient surgery clinic in Manhattan during an elective vocal cord procedure and was then rushed six minutes across town to Mount Sinai Hospital for emergency care. She died one week later.Her daughter, Melissa Rivers, is now contemplating whether or not to pursue a medical malpractice suit.What would YOU need to know before taking this type of action?You might want to pursue medical malpractice action if you think there was error during a procedure that caused an injury or death; if there was question as to whether the proper medical equipment was used and if other medical equipment was available if something were to go wrong; if the staff had improper training; and if standard of care was followed improperly.What tips can you keep in mind to ensure your safety prior to having a procedure?Tips to avoid a medical error:1. Select a caring, competent doctor.2. Take responsibility for your health.3. Give all the facts of your condition, even if you think they may be irrelevant. 4. Don't be afraid to ask; investigate potential failure by the facility to stay up-to-date on standards and trainingWhat else do you need to know to avoid a medical malpractice incident?Physician attorney, Armand Leone, JD, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss what questions to ask during a medical malpractice investigation, what you need to do to ensure your own safety before a surgery and ways you can avoid a medical malpractice incident in the first place.

Silent reflux causes stomach acid to back up into your nasal airway, throat, and voice box and can be the reason for your chronic cough.If you have trouble breathing in, you may be one of more than 100 million Americans suffering from Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR), otherwise known as silent reflux.There are two valves located at both ends of your esophagus (called a sphincter muscle) that help the contents in your stomach flow from one end to the other. However, with LPR, the sphincter muscles don't work properly and stomach acid moves back into the throat, nasal airway and voice box.Unlike acid reflux where you can feel indigestion and heartburn, the symptoms you feel if you have LPR are very different and are exactly what the name suggests: silent.Symptoms include hoarseness, postnasal drip, sinusitis, allergies, asthma, sore throat, trouble swallowing, and cough.What is enigmatic chronic cough and how is it related to LPR?An enigma is defined as something that is difficult to interpret or understand and very mysterious. An enigmatic chronic cough is when you have a cough that has been present for eight weeks or more, and you are unable to identify and treat what is causing you to be chronically coughing.Since LPR causes acid to back-track through your esophagus and into your throat, nasal airway and voice box, chronic coughing is a very common symptom.How can you identify if your symptoms represent silent reflux?One way is by following a two-week "reflux boot camp."For two weeks, limit your acidic food intake; do not drink or eat anything within four hours of bedtime; and avoid processed food, alcohol, energy drinks, coffee, and carbonated beverages.What else do you need to know about preventing and treating silent reflux?Professor of Clinical Otolaryngology at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of the New York Medical College, Jamie Koufman, MD, shares the difference between silent reflux and acid reflux and the causes of silent reflux. She also explains the two-week boot camp that can help relieve your symptoms of silent reflux.

40 weeks may seem like a long time to be pregnant, but do you know the health risks associated with an early elective delivery?Pregnancy may seem like an overwhelmingly long waiting game to meet your baby, and as a result you might consider an early elective delivery.An early elective delivery is a non-medical procedure performed to deliver your baby on a specific date two or three weeks prior to your pregnancy's full term.According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, doctors have been warning against early elective delivery since 1979. However, some women do not want to wait the full 40 weeks and decide on an early elective delivery at 37-38 weeks.Even though it doesn't seem harmful to induce labor before the full term, there are some major risks for both you and your baby.One of the most significant risks is that your baby is still growing and developing organs up until the last week of your pregnancy. Your baby's lungs, brain and liver are among the last organs to develop at the end of your pregnancy.This means if you do decide to have an early elective delivery, there is a risk your baby has not fully developed those organs, which can cause short- and long-term health problems.Babies who are born too early also run the risk of suffering from breathing problems, respiratory distress syndrome, eating and feeding difficulties, vision and hearing problems, learning and/or behavior problems and not having the ability to regulate temperature.Why would a woman decide on this type of delivery? Why would it ever be recommended?The reasons for choosing an early elective delivery can vary. Perhaps all your family members are flying in from out of town to be there for the birth of your child, or your doctor wants you to schedule a predetermined date so you don't have to deal with an unfamiliar doctor should he or she become unavailable.These, however, are rather superficial reasons when you consider the risks.An early elective delivery would be recommended, however, if there is a serious health reason putting you or your baby at risk, or if labor starts on its own. Anything outside of that should be weighed heavily against the potential risks.What other information do you need to know about an early elective delivery?Obstetrician and gynecologist at CoxHealth, Staci Niemoth, MD, shares what an early elective delivery is, why some women are choosing to give birth early, and the major risks.

Roughly 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease annually. Do you know the early symptoms?Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disease that affects motor movement. Parkinson's typically starts off with muscle stiffness, loss of balance or a small tremor, causing you to lose partial control of your hands or other limbs. Over time, the symptoms get worse.It is estimated that three out of 100 people in the U.S. will have Parkinson's disease by age 70, making it the second most common neuro-degenerative disease.Although the condition usually develops after the age of 65, approximately 15 percent of those diagnosed are under age 50.What are some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease?The disease affects patients in different ways. What one patient may experience, another may not. For example, progression can be quick in some patients, whereas other patients may experience symptoms slowly over time.Unfortunately, Parkinson's disease cannot be detected by an MRI or a CT Scan and is diagnosed primarily on your medical history and symptoms.Is there any cure?There is no cure for Parkinson's disease; but a multifaceted approach typically works the best for symptom management. There are medications available that help address the motor symptoms (shakiness, stiffness, tremors, etc.) such as Levadopa/Carbidopa.What other information do you need to know about Parkinson's disease?Dr. Howard Weiss joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss symptoms of Parkinson's disease, the risk factors and complications associated with Parkinson's, and what treatment options are available.

There are many who need a kidney transplant, but there are simply not enough donors.A kidney transplant is needed when one (or both) of your kidneys is infected and needs to be replaced by a healthy kidney from another person. A kidney transplant can come from a living or deceased donor.According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, there are 100,602 patients who are currently waiting for a kidney transplant.Unfortunately, the supply does not meet the demand; there are simply not enough donors. The trouble is finding an eligible donnor -- someone either living or deceased who matches your blood type.How long do you typically have to wait for a kidney transplant?Many people have Type A blood, so there are more Type A donors than there are Type B or Type O. If you have Type A or Type AB, your wait time could be a three months to a year. Unfortunately, if you have a Type O blood, you can be waiting for three to seven years.Where you live and your age also plays a major role in who can donate and your waiting time. For example, if you're in your 20s or 30s, you want your new kidneys to last you at least another 30 to 40 years.Can a living donor decrease wait time?If someone in your family or circle of friends has the same blood type and a healthy kidney, they can reduce the wait time. Having a living donor also reduces your chances of needing dialysis.What else do you need to know about kidney transplants?Chief of kidney and pancreas transplantation at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, David Leeser, MD, shares what a kidney transplant is, who is capable of donating, the waiting time and what other factors contribute to getting a new kidney.

Prostate artery embolization is a new minimally invasive procedure designed to help men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).While undergoing the aging process, men face an increased risk of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) affects about half of men over the age of 60. BPH results when the prostate becomes enlarged and causes many unpleasant symptoms.Some of the symptoms include feeling like you constantly have to go to the bathroom, trouble starting or completely stopping your urine system, dripping, waking up in the middle of the night to urinate and feeling like your bladder is not empty after you go to the bathroom.Getting screened regularly can help identify BPH early on. How is BPH treated?Until now, drugs and invasive surgeries were the only solutions for treatment.However, there is a new, non-surgical procedure called prostatic artery embolization that is being offered to patients.Prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that is just now being evaluated in the U.S. and is actually still in the research stages. In fact, most of the facilities that are doing this procedure do so under a research protocol.The procedure works by putting in a catheter (a very thin tube) into the artery that feeds the prostate gland. Doctors then are able to inject tiny beads, called microspheres, in the arteries surrounding the prostate to block its blood supply. This decreases the size of the prostate and, more importantly, relieves the obstruction of urinary flow.Are there any side effects with this treatment?Many men worry about sexual dysfunction as a side effect to any medication or procedure that involve their prostate. Fortunately, the prostate artery embolization does not cause sexual dysfunction or any other problematic side effects.What else do you need to know about BPH and prostate artery embolization?Chairman of the Department of Radiology at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, James B. Spies, MD, MPH, FSIR, discuss BPH, who is at risk for developing BPH and the new non-surgical treatment option available.

Depression affects more than 350 million people, and all too often causes a loved one to take his or her own life.Contrary to popular belief, depression is very prevalent in society and has been on the rise in the past decade, causing many of its victims to tragically end their lives. In fact, Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE) reports that suicide takes the lives of nearly 30,000 Americans annually.At some point in your life you may encounter hard times which cause you to feel down in the dumps. However, there is a difference between feeling sad and suffering from depression. Depression is a serious medical disorder that causes tenacious feelings of sadness, hopelessness and helplessness. It can interfere with your daily tasks and can lead to suicide.According to the National Institute of Mental Health, there are two types of depression: major depression and persistent depressive disorder. Major depression consists of severe symptoms such as persistent sadness, inability to eat, sleep, enjoy life and thoughts of suicide. Persistent depressive disorder is characterized by a depressed mood that lasts for at least two years.What are the signs you should be looking for if you think someone you know is suffering from depression?Depression might be thrown around loosely in daily conversations, but there are some serious symptoms and warning signs you should be aware of. Symptoms include constantly being sad, a loss of pleasure in what used to bring joy, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of energy and motivation, problems with memory or concentration, and a preoccupation with dying.Unfortunately, depression and mental illness are often stigmatized, which could make it harder to talk openly and seek help. However, SAVE recommends that instead of instilling negativity, you should openly start a sensitive dialogue by asking your loved one questions about how he or she is feeling.What are some of the treatment options available for depression?There are several options that involve medications, psychotherapy and self-care. Oftentimes a combination of taking antidepressants, talking to a professional and changing up your diet or exercise routine can be used together to help ease symptoms of depression.What else can be done to heal, help and prevent depression and suicide?If you or a loved one is battling depression or having thoughts of suicide, you are not alone. Reach out to your doctor or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.Chief of Psychiatry and the psychiatry residency program director for Geisinger Health System, Dr. Marie Ruevem, discusses why depression is a misunderstood yet very prevalent illness, as well as signs of depression and the types of treatment options available.

There has been a lot of recent buzz surrounding probiotics, but do you really know what you're buying and consuming?Probiotics have gained popularity over the past few years, with manufacturers -- and even some doctors -- touting their numerous health benefits. If you're strolling through your grocery store, certain food groups may pop out at you with large colorful print saying, "contains probiotics." You might even see several advertisements throughout the day, urging you to buy probiotics.However, with all the recent buzz surrounding probiotics do you really know the truth about them?True probiotics are a form of good bacteria found in supplements and foods. Most known for aiding in digestive health (constipation, upset stomach, diarrhea, cramping), probiotics also support immune function and help your body better absorb nutrients.With so many probiotics on the market, do you know what do you look for on the label to ensure the probiotic is safe and effective?Food labels can be tricky, especially when there are long lists of unfamiliar (or unpronounceable) ingredients. If you are reading a probiotic label and there are six or more microorganisms, it is probably imported from another country.Unfortunately, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any regulations on probiotics that are imported from other counties and that could be containing foreign and unhealthy ingredients.It is also important to know the exact name of the probiotic, which will include the strain and species of the probiotic. You want to know the health benefits and the exact shelf life of these strains before ingesting them.What are the next steps the FDA and USDA will take to help educate the public about consuming safe probiotics?Author, Researcher and Founder/President of Natren Probiotics, Natasha Trenev, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss why probiotics have gained popularity, what you need to know and look for in a true probiotic, and the next steps the FDA, USDA and manufacturing companies need to take to ensure the quality of a true probiotic on the market.

Burns can vary from mild to severe. Do you know the best treatment for your burn?Burn injuries are very common and are caused when your skin or other organ tissue comes in contact with electricity, friction, radioactivity, chemicals and radiation causing a burn.The resulting wounds can be extremely painful. A severe burn can alter your skin permanently and could cause you to be self-conscious about your appearance, depending on where the burn is located on your body.Burns can be challenging to cure, depending on the various degree of the burn you experienced. Sunburn is categorized as a first-degree burn, whereas a burn that causes blisters are considered second-degree burns and a burn that goes all the way through your skin is a third-degree burn.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), burns are a serious health problem. In fact, an estimated 195,000 deaths happen annually due to burns caused by fires.If you're someone who has survived a burn, what are the different types of burn and wound treatment options?Depending on the degree of your burn, there are several treatment options. Typically for first- and second-degree burns, you should moisturize your skin and keep the burn area covered. However, due to the severity of third-degree burns, you may need surgery.One surgical option is a skin graft. This procedure involves a skin transplant, taking skin from a healthy, larger area of your body (butt or inner thigh) and grafting it on the wound location.What are some other treatment options if you've suffered from a third-degree burn?Director at Brigham and Women's Hospital Burn Center, Dr. Bohdan Pomahac, shares the various types of treatment options if you have suffered a burn or resulting wound.

There might be a new option if you or your loved one is suffering from diabetes.Diabetes is serious metabolic disease where your body loses its ability to produce enough (or any) insulin, causing the glucose levels in your body to rise.According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, The National Diabetes Statistics Report for 2014 concluded there are 29.1 million people -- 9.3 percent of the population -- who have diabetes.There are two types of diabetes: type I and type II. Type I diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood or young adulthood and happens when your body doesn't produce insulin. Type I diabetes treatment consists of insulin injections, a specific diabetes diet and exercise.Type II diabetes happens when your body is able to produce insulin, but does so improperly. Type II diabetes is usually treated through weight reduction, a specific diabetic diet and exercise.However, there might be a new option to help if you or your loved one is suffering from diabetes. Are you aware of chelation therapy?Chelation therapy is a treatment that uses ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) injections to bind the metal toxins within your bloodstream. Once the toxins are gathered, they are released through your kidneys as waste.How is this treatment different if you have diabetes?Chairman of Medicine at Mount Sinai Medical, Dr. Gervasio Lamas, MD, has been a part of a 10-year clinical trial to assess chelation therapy (TACT). The study showed that chelation therapy, thought of as an alternative medicine, coupled with high-dose oral vitamins, can reduce the risk of repeat heart episodes by 50% in patients with diabetes.The results of this study have caused the doctor to reevaluate his own biases as a conventional, Harvard-trained cardiologist toward alternative treatments.Can you expect to see more chelation therapy treatments in the near future?Dr. Lamas shares what chelation therapy is, how it can help if you're suffering from type I or type II diabetes, and what studies are saying about this up-and-coming form of treatment.

The recent 2012 fungal meningitis outbreak posed a new learning and treatment opportunity for doctors, researchers and patients.Fungal meningitis is a type of meningitis caused by a fungal infection in your body that spreads through your blood and into your spinal cord. Any person is at risk for fungal meningitis; but if you have a weakened immune system due to surgeries, other diseases or medications, your chances of getting fungal meningitis drastically increase.Fungal meningitis is not contagious and therefore cannot be passed from person to person. But it can have serious symptoms that are often misdiagnosed or looked over.Why are fungal infections so challenging to diagnose and treat?Fungal meningitis can be a challenge for physicians to diagnose since the symptoms are very similar to other common illnesses like the flu. Symptoms can include a fever, headache, nausea and vomiting.However, if you suspect meningitis you can have samples of your blood or cerebro-spinal fluid tested.Recently, there have been new findings on fungal meningitis that have changed the way doctors and researches look and treat the disease.Dr. Thomas M. Kerkering involved his team's findings related to the highly publicized fungal meningitis outbreak of 2012, linked to tainted steroid injections prepared at the New England Compounding Center in Mass.Chief of Infectious Disease at Carilion Clinic, Thomas M. Kerkering, MD shares what fungal meningitis is and the latest findings to help treat fungal meningitis.

Stress creates a dangerous domino effect causing physical, mental and emotional damage to your health.At some point in your life you will have to deal with stress. A work deadline, a fight, managing finances or simply just having too much on your plate all cause your adrenaline to rise. If you're constantly under this sort of pressure, it can lead to you dealing with stress on a chronic basis.According to a recent study by the American Institute of Stress, 48 percent of stress sufferers say stress has a negative impact on their personal and professional lives.Even if you don't think stress has a significant impact on your life, it can be the underlying cause of many health problems.You may have tried everything to help lower and keep stress away: yoga, meditation, soothing music, taking baths and even changing up your eating habits.These methods might have helped for short periods of time, but your everyday stressors find new ways to creep back into your life.Is there another, more effective way? What is the biology of beating stress?The first thing you must do is acknowledge your stress. Slow down your everyday routine and evaluate the root to your stress. This can be very beneficial in beating stress.What is epigenetics and how can it help manage your stress?Holistic Health Coach and Clinical Hypnotist, Jeanne Ricks, CHC, shares how stress damages your physical and mental health, as well as ways you can overcome your everyday stressors.

Studies have shown 12-step and abstinence treatments have low success rates.Alcoholics Anonymous, known as AA, was first originated in the 1930s in order to help those suffering from addiction. Throughout the decades, AA and many other 12-step programs have been the number one strategy used to fight and conquer alcoholism and many other addictions.However, researchers have been looking into the 12-step program to see if this is the best option for those looking to stay sober.Many studies have found the 12-step program method, specifically used in AA, does not always see successful results. In fact, these studies have identified success rates to be between five and ten percent.Why might this method fail more often than it succeeds?Some individuals might have a problem with how AA sets up its program; basically saying you are "powerless" against your addiction. Another reason why the 12-step program might fail is its faith-based principles. Some people have a hard time agreeing to this and "letting go" to a higher power.What are some alternative routes towards recovery and ways to get help that will work for you?In regards to substance use (and abuse) you're typically looked at as either an addict or not. In other words, you either have a problem or you don't. This leads to abstinence as the only recovery option. Many recovery treatments are moving away from this notion that if you are in a 12-step program you have to remove alcohol from your life forever.Where can you go if you don't want to follow a 12-step program recovery plan?Alternatives Executive Director, Dr. Adi Jaffe, discusses the success rate of AA and other 12-step programs, as well as if it is the best option and what other treatment options are available for the type of treatment you're seeking.

Necrotizing fasciitis is a bacterial infection that can spread rapidly throughout your body and destroy its soft tissue.Necrotizing fasciitis, also known as the "flesh-eating disease," is a bacterial infection that can spread rapidly throughout your body and destroy its soft tissue.According to the National Necrotizing Fasciitis Foundation, the bacterium that causes necrotizing fasciitis is within the group A Strep bacteria, the same bacteria that can cause strep throat.With just a cut, burn or bump to your skin, bacteria enters your body and can cause this flesh-eating disease. Depending on how moderate the case, you can be treated with heavy antibiotics.However, delaying care can cause the disease to worsen, allowing the toxins from the disease to destroy the tissue it infects. As a result, your tissues start to die.Even though your chances of getting this disease are very slim, it's important to recognize the symptoms and what could be posing serious health threats to you or a loved one.NeutroPhase is the newest treatment for necrotizing fasciitis. It contains Hypochlorous acid, a natural substance, which, when produced in the body's immune system, serves as a first defense against microbial invaders.How does this treatment differ from other alternative treatments?John Crew, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss what necrotizing fasciitis is, the symptoms of the disease and the newest treatment options available.

With care from the time of your cancer diagnosis to the beginning of your acute treatment, prehab helps you prepare mentally, physically and emotionally.Cancer Prehabilitation is a process of continuous care from your cancer diagnosis to the beginning of your acute treatment.When you're newly diagnosed, you're usually going to look for second or third opinions. You're emotionally and physically stressed, possibly in pain and looking for a transition into chemo and surgery.Prehab interventions, given between the time of cancer diagnosis and the beginning of treatment, improve patients' health and stamina.For example, prehab can help address emotional distress and provide exercises to help certain problem areas that could be affected due to surgery or chemotherapy.How can survivors and their doctors find out more about the STAR Program prehab and rehab?Rehabilitation physician and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Julie Silver, shares what cancer prehabilitation is and how it can help you before, throughout and after treatment.

Tourette Syndrome is typically noticed in the early stages of childhood and has an average onset between ages three and nine.Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder branded by unusual repetitive, involuntary and unwanted movements or vocalizations known as tics. For instance, you may repeatedly blink your eyes, shrug your shoulders or jerk your head. In some cases, you might unintentionally blurt out offensive words.Tourette Syndrome is typically noticed in the early stages of childhood and has an average onset between ages three and nine.How do you know when to play attention to tics?Tics become worse when your child becomes excited, anxious, tired or bored and appear to be better during calm activities. If you begin to notice these unwanted patterns of behavior, a sniffle, a hand movement or throat clearing and it doesn't seem to go away, you should contact your pediatrician.There are several medication and dietary options in helping reduce symptoms of Tourette's, but they are not 100 percent curative.However, your child might not have Tourette's but instead may be suffering from a mild form of Tourette's known as Tic disorder, a temporary condition when your child makes one involuntary repetitive movement or noise.If your child is diagnosed with Tourette's, is this something they will live with for the rest of their life?Assistant professor at East Carolina University, Brody School of Medicine, Christine Tangredi, MD joins Melanie Cole, MS, to explain what Tourette syndrome is, the difference between tic disorder and Tourette's and what treatment options are available.

An influenza pandemic virus spreads worldwide and infects a large amount of the human population. How can you make sure you're prepared?According to the World Health Organization, influenza is categorized as a viral infection that affects your nose, throat, bronchi and lungs. This virus can be transmitted easily from person to person and is treatable within one to two weeks.Influenza pandemics are unpredictable and can spread rapidly without warning. This can lead to the infection affecting large parts of the population, causing panic worldwide.The latest influenza pandemic you might remember was in 2009, known as pH1N1, which closely resembled the swine flu. According to WHO, from April 2009-April 2010, more than 214 countries contained H1NI and reported 17,919 deaths.Even though influenza pandemics rarely happen, how do you differentiate a pandemic and epidemic?A pandemic reaches worldwide populations, whereas an epidemic is specific to one area. This could be a city, state or country. An example of an epidemic would be seasonal outbreaks of the flu. A pandemic is also caused by a new strain of a virus or a subtype that you have little or no immunity against. This is why it is so easy to spread worldwide and cannot be contained in a specific area.How do you plan for a pandemic?Jon S. Abramson, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss influenza pandemic, how to plan for influenza pandemic and who is most affected from these pandemics.

It has been drilled into your heads that fat is the enemy and cutting fat is the key to losing weight. Is this true?All your life you have been told fats are bad for you. They only lead to weight gain and cause unwanted health issues. Books, dieticians and doctors have said fats are your enemy and the only way to lose and maintain a healthy weight is to cut them out completely.On the contrary, fats have been part of the food pyramid and one of the building blocks to your health for years. When fat was labeled as something to avoid, you might have steered away from certain types of foods.When this whole "fat is bad" trend began, diets started to emerge which focused on limiting your fat intake, and fat-free and low-fat foods began appearing in grocery stores.However, recent findings are showing you not only need fats in your diet, but they are necessary for keeping your weight consistent.A Journal of the American Medical Association study recently revealed that a "low fat" diet showed the greatest drop in energy expenditure and increased insulin resistance – which is a precursor to diabetes – compared with a low carbohydrate and low glycaemic index (GI) diet.Medical Director of Northwestern Wellness Center, Larry Kaskel, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the reasons why fat has been deemed evil, why you actually need fat in your diet, and ways to get good fats into your diet.

While your kidney stones may be small and pass unnoticed via the urinary tract, they may also cause extreme pain.Kidney stones are comprised of a compound called calcium oxalate, the result of an accumulation of dissolved minerals on the inner lining of your kidneys. These deposits can grow to the size of a golf ball while maintaining a sharp, crystalline structure.While your kidney stones may be small and pass unnoticed out of the urinary tract, they may also cause extreme pain upon exiting.According to the National Kidney Foundation, one in ten Americans will have a kidney stone during his or her lifetime. In fact, more than half a million people visit emergency rooms for kidney stone problems annually.If you have digestive problems, diabetes, other health hazards, or a family history of kidney stones, you are at a higher risk of developing kidney stones at some point in your life.How do you know if you have a kidney stone?Kidney stone pain is excruciating. If you're experiencing shooting pains in your back and your lower abdominal and if you have pain while urinating you shouldn't hesitate to make an appointment with your physician.It's important to note if you're experiencing all this pain accompanied with vomiting, see blood in your urine and have a fever, you should go to the nearest ER immediately.Assistant Professor of Surgery in Urology at Duke University, Dr. Charles Scales, MD, discusses the symptoms of kidney stones, why kidney stones occur and what you need to do if you have kidney stones.

Is your stress the reason for your dreadful headache?Everyone has stress on a daily basis, but studies have indicated that high levels of stress increase the occurrence of headaches and migraines.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), headaches are one of the most common nervous system disorders; around 47% of the global adult population has had headaches at least once within the last year. And, the study authors say around 12% of the Western population experiences migraine attacks.How does stress affect your mind and body?When you're constantly stressed, it may seem like you are always on the edge. Your body gets wired from adrenaline, causing your blood pressure to rise and the inability to fall asleep. Your body will eventually crash from this adrenaline high, and when it does, you begin to realize the hidden consequences of stress.If you're struggling to find some stress relief that doesn't include any medication, try attending a yoga class, do breathing exercises or find a place that calms you. However, if the stress is producing headaches which causes you even more stress, migraine medicine can help.What are some ways you can try to prevent headaches, as well as other ways to prevent stress?Professor of Neurology and Director of the Jefferson Headache Center at Thomas Jefferson University, Stephan Silberstein, MD, discusses the correlation between stress and your headaches and ways to address the pain.

Even though the symptoms are the same in men and women, they often experience depression in different ways.You may have felt down in the dumps at times in your life due to a breakup, death of a loved one or from losing your job. This, however, does not mean you suffer from depression.Depression is a mental disorder that's characterized by having feelings of hopelessness and helplessness for a period of two weeks or more and which keeps you from performing daily tasks.Even though the symptoms are the same in men and women, they often experience depression in different ways. In fact, according to the National Institute of Mental health, women are 70 percent more likely to experience depression during their lifetime.Women are more likely to be in tune with their emotions than men, which can be why it's harder to recognize these symptoms and detect depression in men.Unfortunately, men are more likely to commit suicide than women. This could be because men are more impulsive and more likely to abuse alcohol or other substances to heal themselves.Are the treatment options different for men and women?It is important not to overgeneralize treatment, since treatment is based off the individual. However, both men and women can respond differently to medication and other therapy options.How are the sexual differences essential to understanding the illness?Chair for the Department of Psychiatry at Lehigh Valley Hospital Health Network, Michael Kaufmann, MD, shares the differences in how men and women handle depression, as well as ways you can recognize depression symptoms in someone you love.

Could a new study on autism using video games change the way the disorder is treated?Autism spectrum disorder (also known as ASD) and autism are both categorized as general terms for the complex disorders of brain development.Autism and ASD present a mental condition that is similar the very early stages of childhood and is characterized by having difficulty communicating verbally and non-verbally, forming relationships and having trouble in social interactions.According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in 68 child have been identified with autism or ASD. Both diseases are reported to occur in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.Director of the Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Dr. Mark Wallace, recently published a study which reveals the senses of sight and sound are separated with autism. The study focused on children with autism between the ages of six to 18 using a video game program. The children were asked to match the audio and visuals of the game together to see if there was a link missing between sight and sound.Is this study going to change the way doctors treat autism?Dr. Wallace joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share his recent study on autism and the major insights on the disorder.

Currently, there are 19 million, or 6.8 percent of people who are dealing with a specific phobia.It's not uncommon to have several fears throughout your life. When you were a child it might have been a fear of clowns, as you aged the fear could have switched to a fear of delivering speeches in your classes. As an adult, these fears could have changed to a fear of losing your job.However, there is a huge difference between having a fear and a phobia. A phobia is defined as having a persistent, irrational fear of a certain object, animal, situation or activity that in reality poses no actual danger.According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, phobias typically begin in childhood with the median age of onset for a phobia is seven. There are 19 million, or 6.8 percent of people who are dealing with a specific phobia.Are there any symptoms or signs to look for in a loved one that might be suffering from a phobia?Certain areas of your brain are hyperactive when you have a phobia and it can be easily picked up on. For example, when you're faced with that object or situation, your anxiety and fear of that specific object or situation intensifies. This could cause you to sweat excessively, have problems controlling your muscles or actions and can have a fast heart rate.Can you treat and recover from your phobia?Medical director of UF Health Shands Psychiatric Hospital, Dr. Robert Holbert joins Melanie Cole, MS to discuss the difference between fear and phobia, how to approach your phobia and when to seek professional help for a phobia.

The first principle of digital health is to have access to your own data. But what about other people being able to access your data and private information?Technology has helped us evolve as a society, especially within the health and medical field. However, technology has also evolved to where everything is accessible by the click of a mouse.Many doctors' offices and hospitals are now posting your blood tests, MRIs and other tests online to make it easier for you to gather your health information.You live in a digitally connected society where more than 2 billion people are using the Internet. When this many people are using online databases, the issue of privacy is a huge concern.Are people more willing to transfer information online?You might be wary of having your files online, but practitioners are trying to engage patients by asking them to share their own health story online, which is making it an easier transition.You may think there are several pros to having everything online, but you might also see many cons. When it comes to your health records, are your records really private?Founder of the Center for Body Computing, chief cardiologist at USC's Keck School of Medicine, Dr. Leslie Saxon, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the transformation of your health records moving online and any privacy concerns associated with the movement.

You want your doctor to know who you are as a person, not just another patient.Do you ever feel like when you go to the doctor's office you're not being listened to? You have all the same symptoms of other patients with cardiovascular disease, so you're lumped into a category.What about individualized care?When you think about quality healthcare, you want your doctor to know who you are as a person, not just another patient... especially when it has to do with matters of your heart.In the world of cardiology, how can you make sure you're getting personalized care?First, it's important to understand who's sitting across from you. Unfortunately, when it comes to cardiovascular issues that require medical attention, you're usually taken to the hospital. This chaotic setting -- mixed with the loads of patients -- makes it more difficult to spend quality time with each person, particularly when so many people need attention.How is personalized care changing?Some patients spend more than 45 minutes with their cardiologist and some only spend 15 minutes. The type of appointment varies at each doctor's office but obviously it's much harder for your doctor to truly know you in a mere 15 minutes.When it comes to cardiovascular issues, how can you get to know your doctor without feeling rushed?Dr. Alan Zunamon shares why it's important to have individualized care for patients, as well as ways you can achieve that kind of relationship with your own physician.

Orthopedic trauma surgeons encounter anything from small injuries like falls to major injuries like gunshot wounds while working in the ER.An orthopedic surgeon is called upon to treat patients suffering from the most serious and often life-threatening types of injuries. An orthopedic trauma surgeon treats traumatic injuries that affect a person's bones or joints and may also treat muscles and cartilage.In many cases, this type of surgeon treats patients who have been injured in car accidents, falls, and other types of accidental injuries. Orthopedic surgeons may also treat those who have suffered injuries as a result of physical attacks.As a potential patient, what are the most important elements you have to look at when first entering the emergency room?It's sometimes overlooked, but all of those doctors and nurses work as part of a team. If you're calling 911 or if you're entering the doors of an ER, there are several different layers of medical professionals that are working together to make sure your health is taken care of.You'll likely see an orthopedic surgeon more frequently after a surgery to follow up with post-surgery appointments and physical therapy.Are there any new approaches to orthopedic surgery?Orthopedic surgeons are always looking for better ways to heal the patient and advance recovery at a much quicker pace, all while still maintaining optimal health.What are some of the challenges an orthopedic surgeon faces on a daily basis?Jan Paul Szatkowski, MD, shares what it's like being an orthopedic trauma surgeon at Cook County Hospital. Dr. Szatkowski also discusses some of the advancements in orthopedic surgery.

Brachytherapy treatment involves placing a radioactive seed with a high dose of radiation into the prostate gland.Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that starts within the prostate gland. This gland wraps around the urethra and makes up part of the male reproductive system.According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men. Prostate cancer usually occurs in older men, with an average age of 66 at the time of diagnosis.Some doctors are trying new options for treating prostate cancer, including a treatment called brachytherapy. During this procedure, a "pellet" the size of a grain of rice is filled with iodine 125, which is a radioactive agent that is inserted in the prostate to kill off the cancerous cells. The benefit of this procedure is that it reduces the radiation exposure to healthy tissue.The seed implantation is used primarily in men that show early stages of prostate cancer that is slow-growing.This form of treatment is typically tolerated well, with very few side effects. Patients are able to return to work and normal activities within just a few days after the procedure.How long will this seed be inside your prostate?The radioactive material inside the seeds will decay about two months after the procedure, but the rest of the seeds will stay within the prostate forever.What else should you know about brachytherapy?Dr. Robert Murray joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss prostate cancer, the process of screening for prostate cancer, and the seed implant that could very well save your life.

There's never been a more optimistic time for finding the cure for AIDS.AIDS, or acquired immune deficiency syndrome, is the final stage of the HIV disease that causes damage to your immune system. When you have AIDS, your body's cellular immunity is severely decreased, which lowers your resistance to infection.You may think that HIV/AIDS is no longer a huge epidemic and that not that many people are suffering from this disease. However, according to the AIDS website, more than 1.1 million people in the U.S. are living with the HIV infection, and 1 in 6 people are unaware of their infection.In the past few years, there have been several breaks in research that hold a promising hope that the cure for AIDS can and will be found. Why does amfAR believe a cure for HIV/AIDS is feasible by the year 2020?Remember the Berlin patient? His real name is Timothy Brown, and he was thought to be the first and only person to be cured of HIV. He was diagnosed in 1995 and aggressively controlled the virus for several years by using anti-retroviral therapy. In 2007, things took a turn for the worse when Brown was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and had a stem cell transplant. Brown's chemotherapy failed but his doctors went with an unrelated donor who screened positive for homozygous mutation, CCR5∆32. Four years after that transplant, Brown is free from cancer as well as HIV.A cure for HIV is possible, and for the first time there is an understanding of the scientific barriers of finding a cure and what researchers need to do to overcome these barriers.Now, when you hear the word "cure," you may think that the HIV/AIDS is no longer found in that patient's body. However, at amfAR, cure means a different thing: if you've been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, were taking anti-retroviral therapy, and now no longer need it or any other medication, you are considered cured. You are living a long and healthy life and not transmitting HIV to anyone else.What is the countdown to a cure?Vice president and director of research at amfAR, Rowena Johnston, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss why she believes a cure for AIDS can be reached by 2020 and the steps that are needed to reach that goal.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 300,000 Americans contract Lyme disease each year. Some of them are kids.Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is spread through the bite of a black-legged tick. The peak season for Lyme disease is July-September.In August 2013, a report from the Centers for Disease Control stated that 300,000 Americans contract Lyme disease each year. This is 10 times the amount previously believed by health officials.Some of them are kids.What is the most common way to know if your child has Lyme disease?Lyme disease mimics the flu, but also will cause rashes among your child's body. If you notice a rash, fever, fatigue, muscle and joint aches call your doctor immediately.How can you prevent tick bites from happening?The best way to protect your body from being exposed to ticks is to wear clothes that cover your whole body. This may not seem like an ideal option, especially during the hot, humid days of the summer; but it is worth preventing the risk of exposure.Most importantly, after your child is playing outside in wooded or grassy areas, check their bodies to make sure ticks have not found a spot on their clothing or have latched onto their skin.What types of treatment options are available if your child does become infected?If your child has been bitten by a tick and has been diagnosed by your physician, don't panic. The main treatment for Lyme disease is antibiotics such as doxycycline, amoxicillin or cefuroxime.Chairman of pediatrics at K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital, Steven Kairys, MD, discusses what Lyme disease symptoms to look out for in your child, how to prevent Lyme disease and what treatment options are available.

Even if colon cancer doesn't run in your family, it's still important to get a colonoscopy.Have you ever had a colonoscopy? If you have, you may dread going back; and if you haven't had one yet, you're holding out for as long as you can.It's important not to put it off any longer.A colonoscopy allows your doctor to take a look at the inner lining of your large intestine, rectum and colon by using a long, thin, flexible tube. This test helps your doctor discover any ulcers, tumors, inflammation or bleeding.The procedure sounds painful, invasive and unnecessary. Why would anyone need this, especially if you have stellar digestive health? Before opting out, there are many benefits you need to be aware of.Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is life threatening. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, of cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.At what age should you start having routine colonoscopy procedures?Even if colon cancer doesn't run in your family, it's still important for both men and women to get a colonoscopy, starting at the age of 45 and with a follow-up every 10 years.What do you need to do to prep for a colonoscopy?Before your procedure, you need to clear out your colon, which takes one to two days. Unfortunately, you cannot skip this step; without proper preparation, your colonoscopy will not work. This prep involves drink a liquid that loosens your stools and cleans out your system.What else do you need to know before your colonoscopy?Medical Director of Digestive Disease Technology, Baylor Health Care System, Dr. Daniel DeMarco, shares why it's important to have a colonoscopy, how to prep for the procedure and how often you should be having one.

Physicians and psychologists estimate that as many as 30% of children may have a sleep disorder at some point during childhood.You know the importance of a good night's sleep, but in all reality, you're probably still able to function if you've gotten less than five hours. Your child isn't so lucky. According to the National Sleep Foundation, your child will spend about 40 percent of childhood asleep. Sleep is crucial during this time period, as it directly impacts mental and physical development.Does your child have a difficult time sleeping?Physicians and psychologists estimate that as many as 30 percent of children may have a sleep disorder at some point during childhood. Sleep disorders have implications for both social-emotional adjustment and for school performance. Some sleep disturbances are mild, fairly common, and fairly easy to treat. However, other disturbances might be harder to address.What might be the reasons why your child can't sleep?There are many reasons why your child could be having a hard time falling asleep. You may think stress is something that only occurs in adults, but your child could be just as stressed as you are at the end of the day.What are some ways you can help promote healthy sleep?Depending on what relaxes your child, you can draw a warm bath before bed; place lavender or chamomile scents around the bedroom or read a nighttime story. NEVER let your child unwind in front of a TV, computer or Smartphone. Just a little light can disrupt the natural melatonin levels in your child's brain, making it even more difficult to fall asleep.If you notice the problem of inconsistent sleep is occurring in your child for more than two weeks, make an appointment with your pediatrician.What are the consequences if these unhealthy sleep patterns are left untreated?Professor of Neurology and Pediatrics at Vanderbilt University, Beth Malow, MD, MS, shares why your child is having trouble getting and staying asleep and when it's time to take your child to the doctor.

As of March 2014, 25 state governments have not expanded Medicaid through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). How does this effect the HIV/AIDS population?As of March 2014, 25 state governments are not expanding Medicaid through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) even though the federal government would cover the vast majority of costs.The majority of the states that are not expanding Medicaid are in the south. In these states, an estimated 8.5 million uninsured Americans, who would have qualified for full Medicaid coverage, will most likely remain uninsured.Medicaid expansion is critical to help fight HIV/AIDS because of the extreme poverty levels of many of those affected. Oftentimes, these individuals have no other health care options.How will this affect the southern U.S. population going forward?Unfortunately, if you're uninsured, the only way to find out if you have HIV is when the symptoms are problematic. Sometimes, that is too late. Medicaid would provide screenings and tests, regular checkups and a way to educate the public about the drastic consequences of HIV/AIDS.What are organizations like AMFAR doing to try and influence change with Medicaid expansion?AMFAR's deputy director of public policy, Kali Lindsey, joins Melanie Cole to discuss Medicaid expansion as a tool to fight against HIV/AIDS and other health disparities.

There are several clues your body gives off when your liver is shutting down and is in need of a transplant.Your liver is the second largest organ in your body and has several jobs in order to keep your body running efficiently. One of the main functions is processing your food (and beverages) into energy.You absolutely need your liver in order to survive.A liver transplant is a surgical procedure to remove your diseased liver and replace it with a healthy liver from a donor.According to the American Liver Foundation, more than 6,000 liver transplants are performed each year in the U.S.Why would you need a liver transplant?Most patients who need a liver transplant are those who suffer from chronic liver disease. The second most common reason is if you have liver cancer that cannot be treated with a partial transplant.There are several clues your body gives off when your liver is shutting down or is in need of a transplant. If your skin turns yellow, you bruise or bleed easily, increased forgetfulness or confusion, throwing up blood, if you are tired or weak, if you're losing weight and if you are passing black stools.If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial that you get yourself to an emergency room as soon as possible.After you've been put on the waiting list and your time has come for a transplant, you will be notified as early as six hours before the procedure. The operation will take roughly 12 hours you will most likely spend six to nine days in the hospital before you can be released.What else do you need to know about liver transplants?William C. Chapman, MD, FACS, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the importance of your liver, the symptoms that indicate you need a liver transplant, the length of the donor waiting list and everything you need to know about having a liver transplant.

Joint pain can happen for several reasons and can range from mild to completely unbearable, leaving you unable to perform simple daily activities.Your joints connect your bones and provide support while your body is in motion. If you've had damage to your joints, you can experience chronic excruciating pain.Joint pain can happen for many reasons such as sprains, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or as a result of an injury.What's the most common reason for joint pain?Typically, the most common reason you experience joint pain in your knees, hips, hands, and ankles is from overuse. This can be from excess activity that your body is not used to.You may experience pain in your joint during certain activities, like weight-bearing exercises or just from walking. As soon as you stop these activities, your joints may not ache as much. However, if you continue to ignore the aches during and after activities, the damage is still done. If the damage is bad enough, it can be irreversible, also known as arthritis.Arthritis occurs when one or more of your joints are inflamed.When is it time to seek medical attention?First, you must specifically note what pains you are feeling, where you are feeling them and when you are feeling the pain. If you've had the aches and pains for several weeks or months, it would be wise not to hesitate any longer to see your physician. Your physician will evaluate your pain, and depending on how long you've had damage, may recommend different treatment options.The most common treatments you can do on your own are strengthening the surrounding muscles to help the joint bear the force more easily. Another common treatment is weight loss. If you're overweight -- even just a little overweight -- you are putting stress on your joints.Can you take medicine to help ease the pain?The best medicine to take are NSAIDS (Nonsteriodal Anti-inflammatory Drugs), such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen and naproxen.What else can you be doing to manage your pain levels?Orthopedic surgeon and adult joint replacement expert with Houston Methodist, Dr. Stephen Incavo, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the most common reasons you may experience joint pain and the best treatment options available.

An estimated 60,000 diabetics undergo amputations annually. What signs and symptoms do you need to look out for?Diabetes is a growing problem in the U.S. In fact, according to the American Diabetes Association, 25.8 million children and adults have diabetes.Of the millions of Americans who have diabetes, 15% will develop a slow-healing wound, or chronic foot ulcer. People who suffer from these wounds aren't likely to have feeling in the affected area and the ulcers often go unnoticed.Once diagnosed, these wounds can be very hard to treat and at times require removal of the afflicted limb. An estimated 60,000 diabetics undergo amputations annually.What causes these non-healing wounds?Non-healing wounds occur from the breakdown of your skin and can happen for a number of reasons, including poor circulation, nerve damage, blood sugar levels not under control and when a wound does appear, not taking care of the wound in a proper way.It is crucial that you make sure that your blood sugar levels are in National Standardized rates, your glycemic index is in control and that you're checking your feet daily for wounds.If a wound is discovered, make sure the area is cleaned so you don't run the risk of developing an infection. No wound is insignificant and you should contact your physician as soon as possible.What if your wound is not treatable? What is your next step?Dr. Michael Kerzner joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the affects diabetes has on your health, how to prevent and treat non-healing wounds and what your options are if your wounds are not treatable.

Stress can be found in children as much as in adults. How do you know when to step in and help?Stress happens in your world whether you want it to or not. Stress can come from work, school or relationships. You may think that adults are the only ones who are capable of becoming stressed and that your child's life is happy and carefree. Sometimes, however, stress can come from within and can easily be found in children as much as it is in adults.Children who first leave home to go to school can go through separation anxiety, encounter bullying or have a harder time following school curriculum. All of these factors can lead to varying levels of stress.How can you help your child if you're noticing signs of stress?It's important that you set up a healthy, positive environment, starting with the food your child is eating. The food kids eat, just like the food you eat, helps fuel their little bodies and brains to get through a busy day.Another important tip is to make sure your children are getting enough sleep. Even though they may argue about what time they want to go to bed, children and teenagers require more sleep than adults.A way to help your child reduce stress is through physical activity. This can vary depending on how old your child is, but can be as simple as riding bikes after school or playing in a park district sports league.There's no denying that children are observers of their environment, which means whatever habits you have, your child is likely to mimic them. If you handle stress badly by becoming overly frustrated and upset, your child will think that's the proper way to deal with stress.What about the use of technology?Even though your child may have to use the computer for homework, it's still important that you limit the amount of technology your child is using. Overuse of cell phones and social networking can disrupt sleep, cause distractions and limit physical activity.What are other ways to help your child cope with stress?Adelle Cadieux, PsyD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss why your kids are so stressed, as well as share eight ways to help your child cope with stress.8 ways to help your child cope with stress: Provide your child with healthy meals and snacks Help your child get adequate sleep Be active as a family together Be a positive role model by showing effective coping skills Help children learn from their experiences Have clear limits and expectations Reduce technology for kids and for parents Maintain a schedule that helps to balance demands.

Depending on the shoes you wear, the exercises you do could play a role in your risk for eventual foot or ankle surgery.The human foot is a very complex structure with 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 ligaments and muscles working together to achieve a unique combination of stability and flexibility.What you do on a daily basis and what you're wearing on your feet could be factors that could lead you to eventually have foot or ankle surgery.One thing you can do to prevent your chances of needing surgery is to stretch your calf and hamstring muscles as soon as you wake up and periodically throughout the day.What about the types of shoes that you wear? Might that make a difference?Unfortunately, the saying "beauty is pain" is all too common. If you're someone who likes to wear high heels, you're putting yourself at extra risk. Constantly arching your foot can cause major problems.What would be the reason you would need surgery?This varies for everyone; however, if you are constantly in discomfort and pain, you should speak to a specialist immediately.What else should you be expecting from foot or ankle surgery?Section head of Foot and Ankle Surgery at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan, Dr. Paul Fortin, shares what you should expect from foot and ankle surgery, as well as ways you can prevent the surgery (or at least delay it).

Your smile is an important part of first impressions. If you have cracked, missing, chipped or yellowed teeth, you might consider dentures or veneers.Dental veneers (sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve your appearance. They are bonded to the front of your teeth and can change color, size and shape. What are veneers used to fix? Veneers are usually used to fix teeth that are discolored, worn down, chipped or broken, or to fix the gaps between your teeth. The procedure for getting dental veneers requires you to visit your orthodontist three times. You would need a consultation, an appointment to make the veneers and lastly, to apply the veneers. What about dentures? A denture is a removable replacement for your missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Would you consider having teeth implants? Dr. Elliott Dudley of Aspen Dental in Nashville, TN, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss what problems veneers can address, advantages of veneers and what the procedure is for getting dental veneers.

Braces aren't just for kids! But what adult wants to have a metal mouth?You've had horrible teeth your whole life, but have been ignoring your overbite and crooked teeth for years. It's never too late to make a change! If you've finally decided it's time to improve the appearance of your mouth, you might be wondering your options. When you think of braces you tend to imagine thick, metal train tracks. Who wants to deal with that in adulthood? However, braces have evolved from what you're used to. Now, there are ceramic braces made of a clear material that's much less obvious than traditional metal braces. Brackets are attached to the back of teeth holding wires that pull them into a new position. What about Invisalign? With this option, customized plastic aligners fit like tooth guards over your teeth, gently moving your bite into a new position. How much do braces and Invisalign each cost? Everyone's mouth is different and needs different adjustments. Typically, braces can run from $3,500-$6000. Ceramic braces can run from $4,000-$6,5000, and Invisalign can run from $3,500-$6,000. What about comfort? Dr. Elliott Dudley discusses the differences between braces and Invisalign for adults, and explains what might be the best option for YOU.

Are you constantly feeling tired, nauseous or bloated? You may have gastrointestinal (GI) issues.Does the following scenario sound familiar? Almost every day you feel uncomfortable due to bloating, cramping or an upset stomach. It happens so often that you don't think anything of it. However, you may want to listen to your gut... it could be telling you something is seriously wrong.Might you have a digestive issue that you're not properly addressing?Bloating is very common. Numerous things relating to a gastrointestinal problem can cause bloating, but it can also mean a gynecology issue such as endometriosis. However, one of the main reasons you become bloated has to do with what you are eating. You may want to try eliminating certain foods to pinpoint your specific underlying cause.Remember, your body is unique. What helps your body may harm someone else's, which is why it's a good idea to seek a professional consultation at some point.If you're constantly stressed, you might be wreaking havoc on your gut. Keeping your mind healthy is essential for your body to function properly.Occasional heartburn is common after eating certain foods. But, if every time you eat it causes heartburn, you could have acid reflux disease. Acid reflux damages your intestines as well as your esophagus. Left untreated, chronic inflammation within your esophagus can cause cancer.Even though you think popping a few extra Tums will settle the issue, you still need to see a physician. Staying aware from trigger foods such as anything spicy, caffeine or acidic foods can help keep your heartburn in check.What else could be contributing to your GI issues?Assistant professor of medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Sumona Saha, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss common GI issues among women, as well as ways you can help treat these issues.Common GI Issues: Poor diet and nutrition Stress Heartburn Upset stomach Diarrhea Bloating Constipation Gas Pain/cramping

Minimally invasive surgery has similar results to traditional techniques with less blood loss, pain, muscle damage and a shorter recovery time.Back pain is very common amongst individuals. In fact, according to the American Chiropractic Association, 31 million Americans experience back pain at any given time.Your spine is composed of 26 bones, multiple ligaments, muscles and discs that could be compromised when you've injured your back. More than likely you will need to go see a doctor in order to find the best treatment option for you.Have you heard of minimally invasive surgery?Even though back pain is widely common, that doesn't mean the answer is always surgery. However, if you're someone who has a ruptured disc, surgery is your best option.For instance, for a discectomy (the surgical removal of a herniated disc), the incision would be a one-inch incision that allows surgeons to go in-between your muscles and take out a minimal amount of bone to remove the ruptured disc.Minimally invasive spinal surgery is when surgeons make a smaller incision but still big enough to get the job done. This prevents the complications of making large incisions with more exposure to unnecessary areas of your body.Is there a faster recovery with minimally invasive surgery?The recovery time is different for each person. Typically, recovery will be six weeks but can change depending on how healthy you are.Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and surgeon at Beaumont Health System, Jeffrey Fischgrund, MD, discusses if you're someone who would qualify for spinal surgery, how to prevent back pain and the techniques emerging with invasive spinal surgery.

Diabetes is on the rise among African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders. Why is that?Diabetes is a metabolic disease in which the body's inability to produce any or enough insulin causes elevated levels of glucose in the blood.This disease is on the rise throughout the nation. In fact, according to the American Diabetes Association, 25.8 million adults and children in the U.S. have diabetes which accounts for 8.3 percent of the population. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S.Another statistic? Minorities are more likely than Caucasians to develop diabetes.What makes minorities more at risk for this disease?Diabetes can run in your family, which increases your risk of developing the disease. Beyond genetics, there are also cultural attitudes and socioeconomic factors that can play a role in the growing epidemic.For instance, every culture has different takes on what comfort food is. These foods are passed down from generation to generation, even though they may not be the healthiest foods.What are some strategies to educate these minority groups and improve lifestyle changes?Exercise is one of the better approaches when it comes to preventing and managing diabetes. However, there are logistical and practical barriers in terms of facilities available or if it is even safe to be playing outside.What are some other ways to help manage the growing problem of diabetes in minorities?Endocrinologist at Indiana University Health in Indianapolis and a professor of medicine specializing in endocrinology and specifically in diabetes at the Indiana University School of Medicine, Dr. Kieren Maher, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss why diabetes is a growing problem specifically among minorities.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, 16.9 million adults and 6.7 million children suffer from seasonal allergies.Springtime can be wonderful, especially if you live in an area where the winters seem to drag on. The blooming flowers, buds on the trees and the appearance of green can bring you back into a happier state of mind. However, springtime also means that the presence of pollen, dust and allergens increase, causing your to feel foggy, stuffed up and uncomfortable.You're not the only one who is miserable.In fact, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, 16.9 million adults and 6.7 million children suffer from seasonal allergies.Allergy symptoms can often mimic the symptoms of a common cold. How do you really know the difference and when to seek medical attention?Typically, allergy symptoms include an itchy nose, skin or eyes, runny nose, watery eyes, and feeling congested. These symptoms also occur seasonally, especially in the spring and fall. A stuffy nose can indicate a cold, but you won't have the itchiness. Symptoms of a cold also include body aches and fever.If you do suffer from seasonal allergies, it's important to have a plan of medications that work specifically for you. Medications that work for your friends or family won't necessarily work effectively on you.How do you know which medication works best for your individual needs?There are so many options available, from nasal sprays and nasal steroids to antihistamines. Some are available over the counter and some require a prescription. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to ask a pharmacist or your doctor for help.What are some ways to reduce your allergy triggers?If your allergies are extreme, make sure to look at pollen counts before heading outside. You may not like it, but you might have to skip a nice day or two and stay inside. Another helpful tip? Cover your pillows with specific allergy protector pillowcases, which will help lessen your exposure overnight.What else do you need to know about your allergies?Chief Medical Officer and Group Vice President of Walgreens, Dr. Harry Leider, discusses the difference between allergies and colds, home remedies for your allergies and other effective treatment options available to ease your allergy symptoms.

Your community pharmacist role is changing, for the better.Trying to understand and discuss healthcare reform can be confusing and frustrating. But a trend has emerged in healthcare, helping to ease some of the angst: an expansion of the community pharmacist.A community pharmacy is a pharmacy that deals directly with people in a local area. Responsibilities of a community pharmacy include counseling, checking and dispensing prescription drugs to the patients with care, accuracy and legality.The roles of these pharmacists are changing, for the better.Pharmacists now are providing more support than they ever have in the past. For example, community pharmacists give out immunizations and are more involved with patients. They provide ongoing support in order to maintain your individual health.Can a community pharmacist help advocate for patients?Community pharmacists put all their efforts into advocating for YOU. Whether it's helping you answer questions about medications, having a close relationship with your doctors, sending you alerts through emails or texts, or making sure your medication is covered properly through insurance, these pharmacists are focused on your healthcare.What other ways are community pharmacists benefiting you?Chief Medical Officer and Group Vice President of Walgreens, Dr. Harry Leider, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the emerging trend in healthcare reform and how the role of the community pharmacist is changing.

You don't need to head to your hotel's gym in order to get an effective workout when staying away from home.Whether you've had to travel for work or a relaxing vacation, have you ever panicked about when you could fit in a workout? If you're a fitness fanatic, the thought of taking a vacation from your workout routines can send your anxiety through the roof.What if there was a way to go on vacation while still having time to get an effective workout?It IS possible to work out at the airport or on the plane. It won't be a huge sweat session, but it still counts as exercise. When you're on the plane, just getting up and walking around can help your body. Sitting down, lifting your legs and moving your feet into tiny circular motions can also get your blood moving.Hotel fitness rooms are often small and offer little equipment; but if you pack certain items, you can stay in your room and still get some exercise. A great item to bring along is resistance bands. They are light and have different strengths for different exercises. For example, you can use resistance bands for squats, bicep curls and shoulder presses.What about cardiovascular exercises?Jumping jacks, squat jumps, jumping lunges or burpees work extremely well in raising your heart rate and breaking a sweat. Guess what? No equipment is needed for this either.What are some other exercises you can do while traveling or in your hotel room?Camille Rowe, exercise physiologist, shares simple yet effective workouts that you can preform while traveling.

Could an iPhone app make your reading glasses a thing of the past?Have you been depending on glasses in order to read, watch and see? You know the frustration of losing glasses or not being able to read dinner menus or your favorite book. It may seem the only option available for your aging eyes is Lasik surgery.What if there was a way to change your vision so you wouldn't need to use reading glasses OR go through surgery?GlassesOff is a personalized product that monitors user performance and progress to constantly adjust your eyes. It's important to understand how vision works, as the quality of an image captured and the ability to process that image in your brain can be very different from your friends, family and strangers.Your visual cortex is in charge of imaging through your eyes, but, until now, doctors and scientists have been focusing on just the eyes and the not brain.How long until you see results from using this app?CEO of GlassesOff, Nimrod Madar, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the development of this revolutionary app that may improve and even change your vision.

A new medical device may help better treat and prevent strokes for hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S.Atrial fibrillation, or flutter, is a common type of abnormal heartbeat and has been linked to risk of stroke. In this condition, the heart rhythm is fast and irregular. Atrial fibrillation may occur without your knowledge, causing you not to seek medical attention and thus increase your risk of death from stroke.Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal rhythm of the heart, and at least five million Americans suffer from the condition.What if there was something that could help prevent strokes from happening in those who suffer from atrial fibrillation, other than medication?A new device about the size of a AAA battery can be injected into your skin. This device then automatically hooks up with a bedside transponder. If you have any abnormal rhythms in your heart, it will find the nearest cell phone tower and transmit that information to your caregiver.Doctors will now be able to tell when you've had an abnormal rhythm, even if you can't.In a Northwestern Medicine study, researchers monitored people with cryptogenic strokes for intermittent atrial fibrillation using the new device. The device detected atrial fibrillation in 30 percent of people with cryptogenic stroke.Using standard techniques, physicians only found atrial fibrillation in about three percent of these patients. Because of these results, those 30 percent of patients were almost all switched to blood thinners. This treatment action should protect them from having another stroke.Medical director for the Program for Atrial Fibrillation at the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, associate director of Cardiac Electrophysiology, and a member of the Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation, Rod S. Passman, MD, shares the alarming risks of atrial fibrillation, new research that helps connect the link between atrial fibrillation and stroke and a new treatment option.

Most gynecological cancers are hard to diagnose because of their vague symptoms.You've been debating on whether or not a women's health exam is needed. You haven't been going annually like suggested and can't remember the last time you got yourself checked out.Do you know the importance of getting these exams?By routinely getting these exams, you are reducing your risk of gynecological cancers. In the U.S., endometrium cancer (uterine) is the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, about 52,630 new cases of cancer of the uterus will be diagnosed in 2014. About 8,590 women will die from cancers of the uterine body.Another major gynecological cancer is ovarian cancer, which accounts for three percent of cancers among women but causes more deaths than any other cancer of the reproductive system.Cervical cancer forms in the tissues of the cervix (the organ connecting the uterus to the vagina). This usually is a slow growing cancer that may not have any symptoms, but can be found with regular Pap tests.Why should you schedule your women's health exam every year?Director of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, as well as an Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University, Dr. Kevin Holcomb, discusses why gynecological exams are important for catching the three major gynecological cancers.

Americans drink an estimated 400 million cups of coffee a day, and caffeine, in various forms, is consumed by 80 percent of the population.Who doesn't enjoy a freshly brewed coffee in the morning or a tea for midday pick-me-up? There's no denying the numerous health benefits associated with caffeine. However, these benefits work in moderation. Going overboard and obsessively drinking caffeine can trigger insomnia, increase your heart rate and cause anxiety.Does caffeine have harmful effects on your heart?If you stick to caffeine in moderation, your heart heath is not in harm's way. However, if you're having more than six cups of coffee a day or more than 400 mg of caffeine, then you might want to consider slowing down.One misconception of coffee drinkers is how much caffeine is actually in one cup. Did you know that in one cup of coffee there are 100-125 mg of caffeine? Monster energy drinkers consume 160 mg of caffeine per 16 fl. oz.Cardiologist on the medical staff of UnityPoint Health, Sanjeev Puri, MD, FACC, FSCAI, discusses the relationship between caffeine and your heart health, how much caffeine you should be consuming daily and how to cut back if you feel you have a caffeine problem.

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, 43,250 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year alone, causing 8,000 deaths.Oral cancer is a group of cancers including mouth cancer, tongue cancer, tonsil cancer and throat cancer. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, 43,250 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year alone. Unfortunately, oral cancer has a high death rate because the cancer is typically discovered late in its development.Do you know the symptoms?The most common symptoms are lesions on your tongue or on your cheek. These can feel dense and look discolored. You might also notice sores within your mouth. It's important to note that canker sores usually only last a couple of days, so if the sore is persistent for more than a week, you should consult your physician.Risk factors for oral cancer are tobacco and alcohol use, sun exposure, the human papilloma virus (HPV) and if you have already had some other form of head or neck cancer.There are ways for you to do self-exams, the easiest being when you are brushing your teeth. Look around your mouth to make sure you don't notice any difference in coloration, sores and bumps. You should also feel under your chin, neck and back part of your jaw for swollen lymph nodes.What are the treatment options?The best treatment is prevention; reducing your risk factors will benefit your oral health. Don't hesitate to go to your physician when you notice differences within your mouth.Board certified medical oncologist and hematologist on staff at Swedish Covenant Hospital, Jeffrey Cilley, MD, discusses signs and symptoms of oral cancer, as well as treatment options available if you or your loved one has been diagnosed.

Have you suffered from paying too much for your prescription medications?Prescription drugs can make it a lot easier to manage your health; but they can come with a huge price tag, leaving you burdened. Use of prescription drugs can also lead to many people depending on these medications.According to the Centers for Disease Control, over the last 10 years, the percentage of Americans who took at least one prescription drug in the past month increased from 44 percent to 48 percent.Have you heard of patient assistance programs?Patient assistant programs have been around for a few decades but have gained popularity in recent years. There are also over 200 programs available that are run by pharmaceutical companies to make sure you are able to receive your medication at little to no cost.The main criteria to get assistance from the patient assistant programs are a lack of prescription drug coverage and your income level. For instance, if you are single and make around $23,000-24,000 a year, you could qualify.Emergency Medicine trained physician, Timothy McNamee, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss patient assistant programs, the services provided through these programs and the steps to take to apply for these programs.

ACL injuries are on the rise in women, and ACLs are the most common knee injury. In fact over 200,000 torn ACLs occur in the U.S. each year.Your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of four ligaments that are located in your knee to provide stability. When a quick change of direction or if part of your knee comes in contact with a hard object, or a pivot happens in your knee, your ACL can be torn.You will know for sure if you've torn your ACL when your knee pops, swells and you feel excruciating pain. When your ACL is torn, your knee can become unstable. Surgery is an option, since there is a way to reconstructing your ACL from other tissue. This gives your knee back the stability it lost during the injury.Is there any way to you can prevent an ACL injury from happening?There are ACL prevention programs that teach athletes certain positions that are helpful in changing directions, positions to avoid and exercises that can be done.Orthopedic surgeon with Illinois Bone and Joint Institute, Dr. Eric Chehab joins Melanie Cole, MS to discuss ACL injuries, prevention and treatment options for female and male athletes.

You like to have a few drinks every night when you come home from work... that's no big deal, right?Recent studies have shown that 53 percent of adults in the U.S. think that one or more than one of their relatives has a drinking problem. Are you part of that statistic?Alcoholism is a chronic and often progressive disease that causes you to drink too much alcohol and affects your ability to live a normal and healthy life.Excessive alcohol use can cause immediate and long-term health related risks, including car accidents, alcohol poisoning, neurological problems, cancer, liver disease and in some cases, death.How do you know if you have a problem?If your drinking gets in the way of your job, causes problems with any relationship, spurs legal problems or if your body goes through withdrawal, you may have a problem.There are also other signs that you might be a binge alcoholic, which is a pattern that brings your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08 grams percent or above. This happens when you consume copious amounts of alcohol in a short period of time. This is considered as five or more drinks for men and four or more drinks for women.You might have heard that having a glass of red wine every night has health benefits; but be aware that typically that is just one to one-and-half glasses... not the whole bottle.Is there anything you can do to cut back?There are ways to do it alone, simply by decreasing the amount you drink. But if you think you have a serious problem, it is advised to seek professional help.Chief Medical Officer of Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, Gregory Teas, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share signs that you might be an alcoholic, as well as what to do if you think you or a loved one has a drinking problem.

FDA approves steroid triamcinalone acetonide (TAA) nasal spray to be sold over-the-counter. Are there any risks?If you have allergies, you know the worst time of year is when the seasons begin to change. Allergies leave your nose runny, your sinuses stuffed and your mood completely miserable.Did you know that one in five people in the U.S. have allergies or asthma symptoms? In fact, 55 percent of the U.S population tests positive for more than one allergen.Usually you'd have to get a prescription from your physician in order to get your allergies in control.Not anymore.Recently, the FDA voted 10-6 in a favor to allow the steroid triamcinolone acetonide (TAA) to be sold over the counter, allowing allergy sufferers more easily available treatment options.Nasal steroids are the most common relief for allergy sufferers, giving release to itchy, runny, stuffy and dry nose. Nasal sprays that contain triamcinolone acetonide are the only products used to eliminate ALL these symptoms in one prescription and is considered a first line treatment for allergy sufferers.Are there any concerns when using nasal spray with triamcinolone acetonide?One major risk is the use in children. Even though it is approved to be used in children ages two and up, the possible side effect of slow growth rate is a concern. Some other concerns regard those patients who also use asthma medication, prescription steroid medicine, infections or if you've had nasal surgery. As always, it is very important to discuss any concerns or questions you have before taking or allowing your children to take the medicine.Executive Associate Dean, Professor and Head of the Department of Pharmacy Practice at University of Illinois at Chicago College of Pharmacy, Janet P. Engle, PhD joins Melanie Cole, MS to discuss the recent changes with OTC allergy nasal spray, risks, effectiveness and other ways to reduce your symptoms of allergies.

You're woken up every single day by your man's erection. Does this mean that he is more aroused in the morning?Sharing a bed with your man can be great... that is until your daily wake-up call comes from between your sheets and not the alarm on your nightstand.You may think your guy just had a very intimate sexual fantasy in his sleep and is looking for a way to have it satisfied. This is not always the case.Did you know that morning wood has nothing to do with sexual desire?Actually, it happens when your man is in his REM (rapid eye movement) sleep cycle. During REM, your body turns off some neurotransmitters that regulate body functions. One of these neurotransmitters is in charge of stopping erections.REM decreases norepinephrine levels, and testosterone is free to pump as much blood into the penis, causing an erection.This doesn't mean that men aren't aroused immediately when they wake up. Each person is different; some men and women may be aroused in the morning while others get randy later in the day.Director of San Diego Sexual Medicine, Irwin Goldstein, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to explain why morning wood happens and if it means men are more sexually aroused than women.

Oral sex can be just as intimate, if not more intimate than sex. Are you missing out?Oral sex is just as intimate -- if not more intimate -- than sex. In fact, a recent survey in Woman's Day indicates that couples will spend at least 20 minutes on foreplay before intercourse.A reported 41 percent of women enjoy giving and receiving oral sex and feel empowered while doing so. However, 17 percent don't like it and feel that it can be demeaning.Is there anything you and your partner can do to help you enjoy the benefits of oral?The first step to help you and your partner get intimate is to communicate your fears, desires and fantasies to each other. When you're open and honest, it helps you both feel connected and more intimate with one another.Are you missing out on not participating in oral sex with your partner? Sexologist Ava Cadell, PhD, shares why oral sex is beneficial, as well as ways to help you and your partner reach satisfaction when you're intimate.

You know the Big O feels great, but you aren't always reaching it. Are there ways to increase the chances during intercourse?It's no surprise that orgasms make sex amazing; but what if you can't climax every time you and your partner are intimate? You're not alone. According to several surveys, only about 25 percent of women always climax with their partner.The female orgasm is much more complex than a male's. Many women aren't getting the right stimulation during intercourse because the majority of typical positions are not focusing on the right areas.Placing a pillow underneath your pelvis during the missionary position helps reach the g-spot, an erogenous zone located inside your vagina.Also, making sure you're in the right state of mind is crucial to helping you reach an orgasm. If you focus on what you and your partner are doing during foreplay, each kiss and touch will increase your chances of climaxing during intercourse.What are some other ways to reach an orgasm every time you and your partner have sex?Sexologist Ava Cadell, PhD, explains why orgasms are tricky, as well as ways you and your partner can achieve orgasm every single time you have sex.

How you argue and resolve conflict with your partner can determine a happy and successful OR doomed relationship. No matter if you've been dating for five years, or married for two, you are bound to have fights with your significant other. Some may seem silly and are easily resolved and forgotten within 10 minutes. But what about those other stubborn and never-ending fights? Depending on how you argue and resolve conflict with your partner can make all the difference in determining a happy, successful relationship or a doomed one. During any fight, it's important to ask yourself what you are truly upset about and why this fight is taking place. Are you looking to resolve the conflict or to just get even with your partner? Or does it all come down to winning an argument and the subject of the fight is irrelevant? If your go-to move is to insult character and hit below the belt, bring up past issues and refuse to back down, you're not fighting fair and you need to take a breath. What are some tips for fighting fair? Always remember the good in your partner and the love you both share. And, be nice. Keep your fight relevant, private and get to the point of your frustration. Relationship and marriage blogger, Angela Pope, shares why it's important to fight fair in a relationship, as well as some tips to help you stay balanced during an argument.

Adoption can be an expensive and a prolonged process. Learn how to be fully prepared for the road ahead.Did you know that hundreds of thousands of couples are looking to adopt each year?According to the U.S. Department of State, from 1999-2012 there was a total of 242,602 adoptions. More than half of these were female and under the age of one year.Adoption can be an expensive and a prolonged process depending on the services that you decide to enlist. For example, at The Cradle, an adoption agency in Illinois, the average waiting time is one year after you complete your home study.How do you know which adoption agency to choose?There are two equally important questions you should ask when considering adoption. First, what post-adoption services are available to you, your child and birth parent? And second, it's important to ask exactly what services you are going to get with the specific adoption agency that you choose.President of The Cradle, Julie Tye, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss everything you need to know about adoption.

Having poor posture plays a role in many injuries and can be the reason for your chronic body pains.You've been told your whole life to sit up straight, and you might have even had a mother or teacher physically correct your slouched back. You might want to thank them instead of rolling your eyes. Do you know why posture is so important for your health?At a foundational level of your health, correct posture is the most important thing you can practice. Every element of your health -- including breathing, exercising, how you perform your daily functions -- depends on your posture. In fact, did you know that posture uses 90 percent of your energy value?Unfortunately, you are naturally and constantly compromising your posture and have been since the day you were pulled out of the birth canal. Learning sit up and walk actually damaged the tendons that hold your body together, causing you to lean over and become out of alignment.Is there anything that you can do to restore your posture?The best way to correct your hunchback is to realign your back with professional help. By seeking professional help, you not only achieve correct posture, but you will also learn exercises specifically designed for your trouble areas; head, shoulders, back, etc.Board Certified in Orthospinology, Dr. Russell Friedman, DC, shares why your posture is so important for your body and overall health.

Is there a way to stop a heart attack from happening?Heart disease is the number one killer for both men and women, and according to the CDC, kills 600,000 people every year in the United States.What is the most important way to prevent heart disease from happening?Unfortunately, there is not just one thing that needs to be changed to lower your risk of heart disease; it's your whole lifestyle. The most common outcome of heart disease is a heart attack or stroke, which is caused by plaque building up in your arteries. Having a heart healthy diet that eliminates your weekly KFC, McDonald's and greasy, fatty fast foods would be a great start. Managing your blood pressure, incorporating more veggies, fruits and healthy fatty acids into your diet can also help prevent heart disease.Another essential way to prevent heart disease is by exercising. Exercise lowers your stress and inflammation levels and improves your circulation, cholesterol and fat levels.You ready to get that gym membership yet?It may seem like a far stretch to accomplish these changes. It's important to know that lifestyle changes don't happen overnight, they happen gradually. However, that doesn't mean you should procrastinate.Cardiologist at Rush University Medical Center, Kim Williams, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss preventative ways to lower your heart disease risk, the tools out there to help and why it's important to address these risk factors before it's too late.

Did you know that coffee is a $30 billion industry and that Americans drink an estimated 400 million cups a day?You've grown found of having a few cups of coffee in the morning before work, a cup or two at work and before you know it by the end of the day your head is pounding and your hands are shaking.Is this a sign you need to cut back?There's no denying the powerful benefits of what coffee can do for your health. However, if you're constantly craving the "fix" and wondering when your next caffeine dose will be, you might have a problem.The hardest question you have to answer is why you need to drink coffee or energy drinks. Are you turning to your cup of coffee to get you going in the morning and skipping your balanced breakfast? Or did you not get enough sleep and need a quick pick-me-up?Whatever the answer may be, if you are relying on caffeine to get you through your day, you might want to find other alternatives.Try substituting your 16 oz. heavy cream, light sugar drink for a meal balanced of carbs, protein and fiber (like oatmeal) to give you a healthier boost.Registered Dietitian, spokesperson and media personality, Keri Gans, MS, RD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss why caffeine in moderation is great for your health, some signs that you need to cut back and alternatives you can turn to in order to kick your caffeine habit.

Can marriage really improve your mental, emotional and physical health?Regardless of whether your relationship is loving or painful, it's going to have an impact on your physical and emotional health.Did you know there are surprising benefits of being married, other than to have someone else take out the trash in the morning?Your companionship can keep you healthier, happier and better off financially.If you take the leap of faith into the long-term commitment of marriage, you are more likely to have better physical health. Research has shown that couples that are married have a better chance of surviving cancer than single, widowed, separated or divorced people. In fact, according to research, 90 percent of married women who were alive at 45 made it to 65 versus 80 the percent of divorced and non-married women.Married couples are also more likely to have better mental health than those who are not. Marriage decreases depression, anxiety and feelings of loneliness.Don't think that if you get married all your problems will vanish into thin air, however. Marriage requires a lot of work, patience and communication in order for you and your spouse to fulfill all the benefits it has to offer.What are the other health benefits of tying the knot?Lucy Flower Professor in Urban Sociology, Linda J. Waite, PhD, shares why married people are happier, healthier and better off financially.

Some say a little jealousy is okay; but what is it really doing to your health and your body?Studies have shown that a little jealousy might actually help your relationship; but what happens when it turns obsessive? What does jealousy really do to your health?Jealously activates your adrenal glands, which gives you that fight-or-flight feeling and creates psychological stress on your body. When chronically activated, this reaction can mess with your sleep schedule, appetite, mood and increase your blood pressure... not to mention the tension it builds within your relationship.More than likely you're creating this jealously in your head, causing you to over-think and overreact.If you know the green-eyed monster a little too well and are prone to jealousy-induced rage, there are some things you can do before your relationship is ruined and your health is damaged.Ask yourself, why do you feel this way?If you feel insecure or perhaps have been burned in a past relationship, it's important to know your self worth is something only you should define and understand that not every single person will hurt you like others have.Bestselling author of Secrets of Happy Couples, Kim Olver, LCPC, discusses why jealously can harm not only your health, but those around you as well.

If you're a fan of yoga, wellness or travel, a yoga getaway is just what you need.Are you a fan of wellness, yoga and travel? If you've always wanted to truly get away from everything and focus on your peace of mind and your health, a yoga trip is just for you.And, if you've never been on a yoga retreat but have always wanted to go, there's no excuses now as to why you can't.Specific destination yoga retreats have gained popularity throughout the last few years. Destinations have popped up all around the world in places like India, Thailand, Mexico, the Caribbean, Italy, Colorado Mountains, Costa Rica... the list continues.The important thing is to have a good plan.First is your location. How much are you really looking to get away and spend? Then, it's important to decide what type of retreat you want to take. Will it be an all-active vacation, taking five hours of yoga along with learning how to surf? Or, will it just be strictly yoga?Should you go alone, or bring a bunch of your wellness buddies? Yoga retreats are great to experience by yourself, especially if you're trying to focus on yourself and your practice. However, it wouldn't be bad to bring just one other person if you're not used to traveling alone. Leading Yoga and Pilates expert, Kristin McGee, explains how to plan your yoga retreat and shares the best places to deepen your practice and to find that inner peace.

It's time to put on your big girl panties and learn what you need to succeed in life before getting any older and wasting any more time.Time moves pretty fast. Before you know it, you're in your mid-20s and reminiscing about those college days when you could eat, drink and sleep like a pro.You may hate to hear it, but it's time to put on your big girl panties and learn what you need to succeed in life before getting any older and wasting any more of your time on things that are unnecessary.You've been through it all: never-ending job searches, bitter friendships, several heartbreaks and those feeling of regret after long nights of partying. But now you're serious about what you are willing to tolerate as you approach your late-20s and beyond.For instance a big one is to cut the social fat. Just because you've known your best friend since you were 13, doesn't mean you have to be friends for life. Just because she treats you like garbage but you put up with it anyway doesn't mean you should. Well, don't! End those toxic friendships, they aren't doing you any good.In this segment, blogger for Cosmopolitan, Anna Breslaw, shares 10 things every woman should know by the age of 25.

You've heard, and might have seen it all before, but what do you really know about sex between lesbians?There are a lot of myths about what lesbian sex is and how it should be. Unfortunately, the misinformation on what lesbian sex should look like mostly comes from movies and porn.Newsflash: just because you saw it in a movie doesn't mean it actually exists.Just to make things clear, there is no such thing as "Lesbian Sex" either. Sex is part of everyone's sexuality. It's just sex.The first myth you're probably thinking of is penetration and that there is no sex unless penetration exists. False. Any person, regardless if they are a lesbian or not, may not believe penetration is part of sex. It all comes down to what that specific person likes.Co-Founder of Everyone Is Gay, Kristin Russo, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to debunk all the myths you've heard about lesbian sex.

Sickle Cell is a red blood cell disease that has no widely available cure.Sickle cell disease is a condition that changes normal, round red blood cells into cells that are shaped like half moons. Sickle cells move through your blood stream and have a higher risk getting stuck on blood vessels, which can stop oxygen from getting through.Sickle cell is an inherited disease that causes lifelong health problems such as horrible pain and anemia. Antibiotics and immunizations are available to help maintain pain but there is no widely available cure other than stem cell donation, which can be very hard to find a direct match.What about Cord Blood?Chloe Pratt, a five-year-old girl was born with sickle cell. Chloe was fortunate and received a stem cell donation taken from the umbilical cord blood of her brother. Chloe is now a healthy and active child.Pediatric hematology and oncology and stem cell transplant specialist, Joel Weinthal, MD, and Father of Chloe Pratt, Kebreon Pratt, share Chloe's story,  as well as how cord blood helped Chloe become a healthier child and if cord blood can someday cure sickle cell disease.

After a breakup you might think the quickest way to get over someone is to sleep with someone else. But is that healthy?You and your long-term partner just broke up, leaving you devastated, vulnerable and wanting to get over it as soon as possible.What about rebound sex?Before hitting the sheets with some random stranger, think of why you are really having rebound sex. Is it a way of revenge, to make your ex jealous? Or do you need a self-esteem boost?If it truly is a matter of self-esteem, rebound sex might be a way to make you feel attractive, desirable and wanted again and to erase the memory of your ex. But if it's primarily about revenge, you might want to think twice.In the long run, do random hook-ups help you move on faster and even expedite the process of  finding your next relationship?Founder and Editor of The Psychology of Human Sexuality, Justin Lehmiller, PhD, shares how rebound sex can be beneficial but how it can also be a huge mistake.

You're tired ALL the time but don't know why. Can your food choices be to blame?You are eating healthy, you exercise daily and get enough sleep every night but you're still so tired. Could it be your healthy diet that's ruining your energy levels?Think about it. Certain foods that you eat cause your blood sugar to rise rapidly then immediately fall, creating a chaotic mess of your energy levels and overall well being.What did you eat for breakfast today? If you skipped it because you didn't have time or didn't feel hungry you're not alone; 31 million Americans skip breakfast daily, which brutally impacts your blood sugar and energy levels.A great food that's easy to make and doesn't require lots of time is oatmeal. Oatmeal is full of protein, fiber and carbohydrates. If you want a little extra flavor, you can add fruit which will also give you a boost of antioxidants.Are there ways to continually boost your energy levels throughout the day?Associate Professor at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Jen Sacheck, PhD, shares certain foods you can eat in order to boost your energy levels naturally throughout the day.Some Foods that Naturally Boost Energy: Fruit Fish Chicken Dark Chocolate Veggies Oatmeal Peanut Butter Turmeric Apples

Just because you exercise doesn't mean you're in the clear of heart disease. What you put on your plate can save your life.Heart disease is the number one killer for both men and women. You may think that you don't have anything to worry about since no one in your family has had heart issues. You exercise daily so you should be in the clear, right?Wrong.Just because your family history is clear and you exercise does not mean that you are free to shove your face with unhealthy, sugary, high calorie, processed foods. What you put on your plate can either shorten or save your life.Those foods high in saturated fats and trans fats do damage by adding layers of plaque within your artery walls. But, don't panic if your diet has previously consisted of fast food and a bag of Cheetos with every meal. It's never too late to add foods such as whole grains, fish, nuts, fruits and veggies to help lower your risks and to keep your arteries clean.What are some foods that you can eat and won't get tired of?President of the Institute for Fitness and Health, Joe Piscatella, shares the wake-up call at the age of 32 that got him to eat better, as well as what foods you can eat to clean out your arteries and keep them clear.Foods To Keep Your Arteries Clean: Nuts Fruits and Veggies Dark Chocolate Olive Oil Oatmeal Fish

You hear about the foods you can and can't eat throughout pregnancy. But what about foods to help increase your chances of becoming pregnant... do they exist?You and your partner are trying to create mini-mes but have experienced a little trouble along the way. You've been trying for months but don't have a pregnancy to show for it.Before heading to your doctor to begin invasive testing, you may want to try your own fertility treatments by eating natural super foods.A major super food is buckwheat, a healthy grain that significantly drops insulin and testosterone levels, which is a process that increases ovulation. When you're ovulating, your chances of conceiving are that much higher. Also, to those who need to eat gluten-free, buckwheat is 100 percent free of wheat (even though it's mentioned in its name).So... who is eating these foods to help boost fertility? The woman or the man?Both.Men and women both have an endocrine system, which is critical for making babies. It wouldn't hurt if your man ate these foods with you.Founder of the Food Therapy Program, Alisa Vitti, shares the best super foods to help increase your fertility, why these foods are so beneficial for conceiving and foods to stay away from when you're trying to procreate.Foods That Help Boost Fertility: Buckwheat Egg Yolks Chick Peas Avocado Cinnamon Turmeric Sunflower Seeds Pumpkin Seeds Foods To Stay Away From: Dairy Sugar Caffeine

First comes love, then comes marriage... unfortunately, most couples skip a crucial step between their love and their future.Love can be wonderful, special and rare; but love can also be blinding. If you have certain expectations of what your future holds with your significant other (having five kids, practicing a specific religion, working while also being a full-time mom) wouldn't you think to talk to your partner before the wedding date?Most couples don't.While dating, you are just sharing little things like blankets to watch a movie or food to snack on. When you're engaged, you're not just sharing the little things anymore; you're sharing things that you might not have realized.So, what questions should you be asking your significant other before or during your path to marriage?One of the fundamentals is asking what you and your significant other expect out of marriage. You may have these unspoken expectations of what roles you and your spouse will hold during marriage.Another important question to think about is how you fight, or communicate about issues that bother you? There have been studies with 94 percent accuracy in determining if your relationship will end in a divorce just based off how you handle conflicts during a fight.In this segment, marriage and family therapist, Leslie Parrott, discusses the important questions to ask before getting married and why you need to ask your partner before saying "I do."

According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, 1 in 4 Americans suffer from a mental illness.Every day that you turn on your television, pick up a newspaper or surf the web, it seems another mass murder that has taken place. The gun violence, bombings, stabbings and even beatings talked about daily might make you wonder why someone would ever commit these heinous crimes.Were these just random acts of violence, or is there a link between untreated mental illness and murder?According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, 1 in 17 Americans suffer from a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression. The vast majority of those people are not going to be violent.So what leads one person to be violent and not the other?There are some factors such as social isolation, having a violent background or coming from a violent background or a violent community, substance abuse and anger management issues that can all play a role in an increased risk of violence.Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Sheela Raja, PhD, discusses warning signs to look out for, and what can drive someone to commit a mass murder.

You say you don't have a "problem" because you only drink at social gatherings. But is that just an excuse?A social alcoholic, or a social drinker is known as a low-risk drinker. You may not think that you have a problem and become defensive when your friends or family members begin to question your drinking habits.You're just a social drinker, after all, and there is really nothing to worry about. But what does that even mean?Of course you can go to a party and have a few drinks while being social; however, might you be having the same symptoms as an alcoholic but just in a social setting? Or are you saying that you're a social drinker to hide your true patterns of alcohol abuse?A true social drinker should be able to stop drinking without having any cravings, without wanting to suppress emotions, or without feeling like you have to sneak around to get a drink.Addiction expert at Rosecrance, Dr. Thomas Wright, MD, explains the differences between a social drinker and an alcoholic, as well as the signs to look out for if you or someone you know is a social alcoholic.

Broken heart? Step away from the Ben and Jerry's.When you're in a long, loving relationship, it's hard to process that you've just been dumped. If the breakup was out of nowhere, it can leave you more vulnerable than ever.You may think the best therapy post-breakup is a tub of your favorite Ben and Jerry's, a sappy romantic comedy and to take shelter on your couch for weeks.This is not the answer.If you don't allow yourself to move on, it only damages your overall health. Depression, lack of sleep, junk-food eating and reflecting on the past will keep you from moving past the breakup and finding love again.When you're grieving, it's hard to focus on staying healthy and positive. The most important way to emerge from heartbreak is to love yourself and take time for yourself.Licensed psychologist, Dr. Sherrie Campbell, PhD, shares ways to emerge out of your heartbreak in a healthy and positive way.

Your emotions are just as important as sex in your relationship. So what happens if that essential element is missing?You thought that it would never happen to your relationship. You two shared an intense passion for one another, and could barely keep your hands to yourself.The years passed, and so did the times that were once spent fogging up windows and engaging in multiple sweat sessions. You're having sex less often that you ever imagined, whether the cause is exhaustion from both you and your partner's demanding jobs, your children, or if your man suffers from ED.You're feeling less connected to your partner than ever.Is there another way?Michael Russer was diagnosed with prostate cancer and unfortunately, from the cancer and the treatment, he was left completely impotent. Through this, however, Russer found the number one reason that couples drift. It's not necessarily just due to lack of desire, but also the result of a lack of emotional intimacy.Russer, author and motivational speaker, shares how becoming more emotionally intimate with your partner will help grow your relationship.

Despite growing awareness about eating disorders, in recent years these disorders have been on the rise in men.Did you know 40 percent of Americans have experienced an eating disorder, or know someone with an eating disorder?Eating disorders are commonly associated with females; however a recent study found that 17.9 percent of teenage boys and 2.4 of percent men have experienced some form of an eating disorder.Do eating disorders affect men the same way they affect women?For many women, eating disorders are associated with a desire to be skinny; and even though some males also have this desire, most males who suffer from an eating disorder are usually concerned with their muscular build.Why have eating disorders in men been increasing?Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Dr. Kenneth Weiner, MD, FAED, CEDS, discusses why eating disorders are on the rise in men, the signs and symptoms and what treatment options are available.

Should or shouldn't you obsessively stalk your recent ex-flame on Facebook? Um, probably not.Breakups can be hard, especially when you thought things were going great. Even though it sounds like a good idea at the time to throw things at your recent flame's head out of rage, obsessively stalk your ex's Facebook, or call and randomly hang up... it's not.Not only are you holding on to all the upsetting emotions of the breakup that can cause even more stress and damage to your health, you're also not allowing yourself a chance to heal and move onIt's also not uncommon that since this huge change in your life just happened, you are impulsively thinking of ways to change everything else in your life: the way you look, quitting your job or just moving to a different city/state to start over.Wanting to do these things is just a quick fix to mentally erase what just happened. However, it doesn't mean that some of these things aren't a bad idea.Licensed psychologist, Dr. Sherrie Campbell, PhD, shares the most important do's and don'ts of a breakup, and ways that you can stay sane post-love status.

Heart disease is the number one killer for men and women. But, changing to a heart-healthy diet can lower your risks significantly.If you're trying to watch what you eat while also being heart conscious, you're not alone. More than 26.5 million adults have heart disease. You may think that if your family history doesn't have a long line of heart issues, you're in the clear.You are wrong.While your genetics do play a role in your health, a huge factor is your lifestyle.According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death of both men and women. Every year 715,000 Americans have a heart attack. Eating a heart-healthy diet can decrease those risks significantly. Your doctor will probably recommend to eat a diet that is low in salt, fat, saturated fats and to eat more fruits and veggies. However, that doesn't mean that your food has to be bland and boring.One heart-healthy food that can be eaten to help lower your LDL (bad cholesterol) is oatmeal. Oatmeal is also full of omega-3 fatty acids, foliate, potassium and fiber.What are some other foods that you can be eating?Nationally known nutritionist and health journalist, Lisa Drayer, MA, RD, will discuss certain foods to help your heart stay healthy and strong.Drayer's list of top heart-healthy foods includes: Oatmeal Salmon Berries Nuts Extra virgin olive oil Beans Fruits and veggies Broccoli Grains Milk Oranges Kale Garlic

Learn why you should make some room in your fridge for a six pack.Beer lovers, rejoice! Recent research has shown that drinking beer has surprising health benefits. YES, you read correctly. During your check-ups, doctors often say that drinking alcohol in moderation is good for your health, but wine has usually been the go-to beverage.But here is a little-known secret: did you know that wine and beer contain the same amount of antioxidants?This doesn't mean that you should be pounding beers back like you're back in college; but one or two beers certainly wouldn't hurt.According to the USDA, after conducting over 50 different studies, it was found that beer that is consumed moderately saves 26,000 lives per year due to lowered disease risk.If you haven't already, go to your fridge, crack a cold one and do a little dance for the beer in your life.What other benefits does beer have that support a healthy life?Nutrition consultant Karen Ansel, MS, RD, discusses why beer is good for your health.Some Beer Benefits: Heart smart Light beers won't ruin your diet Promotes kidney health Contains fiber Essential B vitamins Promotes bone health Boosts brain health

Paleo is also known as the caveman diet, hunter-gather diet, and the stone-age diet... but what makes it so popular?Another diet that has made its way into your thoughts, and you're questioning whether or not you should give it a go: the Paleo diet.Paleo has been around for many decades, but in recent years has gained popularity and has actually been revered as one of the top dieting plans.So, what exactly is the Paleo diet?Also known as the caveman diet, Stone Age diet and hunter-gather diet, the Paleo diet focuses on eating wholesome foods containing high protein and high fiber foods such as leans meats and fish, fruits and veggies, nuts and other healthier fats.If the cavemen didn't have access to refined sugar (and sorry to say, they didn't), you shouldn't either. Say goodbye to junk food, processed food and dairy.What else should you know before trying this diet?Professor in the Department of Health and Exercise Science at Colorado State University, Dr. Loren Cordain, PhD, discusses the Paleo diet in depth, including why it's one of the top diets and what you should do if you want to go Paleo.

More states are beginning to legalize medical marijuana usage, which has many vets and animal behavioral experts wanting research done on safety for pets.Times are changing, and for the first time in many years medical marijuana isn't getting bashed like it used to. Regular people, and even doctors, are more open to usage... especially if it helps ease their patients' pain.What about medical marijuana for your aging four-legged companion?More states are beginning to legalize medical marijuana usage, and many veterinarians and animal behavioral experts are raising the importance of research on the safety for pets.Is it safe, and should you use it for your pet?Expert on Animal Behavior, Darlene Arden, CABC, discusses if medical marijuana for your aging pets can help ease their pain.

Do you ever feel paranoid, neurotic and even phobic about certain thoughts that you have? Is that normal? Or nutty?Sometimes you may feel paranoid, neurotic and even phobic about certain thoughts that you have. You don't dare share them in fear of being accused of being "nuts."Certain thought processes or even certain actions that you have done might make you wonder if you are a real-life version of the Looney Tunes crew. How normal is it to think certain absurd thoughts? Are you the only one?For instance, is it normal to think about your own (or a loved one's) funeral? Recent findings show not at all.Readers Digest recently spoke to a panel of experts to get all the right answers to your normal or nutty thoughts.Executive Director for Readers Digest, Courtenay Smith, discusses the development of this story and why you may often wonder if you're normal or nuts.

Your wedding day should be one of the best days of your life, but all the planning can be a huge stressor. How can you stay calm, cool and collected?You just got engaged to the love of your life and you are overjoyed with emotions. Planning the wedding should be a fun, exciting and happy time... right?Staying within a budget PLUS trying to please yourself, your partner, your parents and your soon-to-be in-laws can drive even the most grounded person to insanity. It's no wonder typically easy-going women turn into bridezillas.It happens to almost everyone, so why aren't more brides speaking out about the true stressors involved with planning a wedding?Turns out it's not just the bride-to-be that gets overwhelmed. A recent survey found that 23 percent of men said they found planning their big day was the most stressful life event.Is there a way to stay calm, cool and collected through all the planning?Bridal coach and stress management expert, Jeri Kadison, shares how to stay stress-free throughout the planning of your big day.