High levels of stress affect our verbal interactivity. When cortisol levels are high (as is more common among those with depression), voice symptoms are more common. We can use voice characteristics to suggest a diagnosis of depression.... Read More
Grant Wahl and Aneurysm
Grant Wahl had a thoracic (in the chest) aortic aneurysm burst. Men and women are equally likely to get thoracic aortic aneurysms. The condition becomes more common with increasing age.... Read More
The Tripledemic is Here
Tripledemic has no scientific definition; the term refers to a collision of COVID-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and flu such that we may see hospital emergency departments overwhelmed.... Read More
Natural Gas and Health
Benzene can cause cancer, based on human and lab animal investigations. The American Cancer Society reports that rates of leukemia, particularly acute myeloid leukemia (AML), are higher in studies of workers exposed to high levels of benzene, such as those in the shoemaking, chemical, and oil refining industries.... Read More
Reducing Your COVID Risk
Diabetes (type 1 or 2) is associated with a higher risk of COVID-related complications, especially for those with poor glucose control. Of those presenting to the hospital for COVID-associated problems, one in four has diabetes.... Read More
3-Minute Exercise
Vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity (VILPA) is the very short episodes of vigorous activity (up to a minute or two) we do with enthusiasm each day, like exhibiting bursts of power walking while doing errands or running for the bus.... Read More
How I Lowered My Cholesterol
Have you tried shima-dofu? If you answered yes, count yourself lucky — during its development in the Ryuku kingdom era — only the emperor, his family, and select nobles could enjoy it.... Read More
Celine Dion’s Stiff-Person Syndrome
Over time, those with stiff-person syndrome may develop abnormal postures, appearing hunched over. Some individuals may become unable to walk or move. Lacking normal reflexes to catch themselves is particularly problematic as serious injury risk rises.... Read More