The Most Dangerous Things to Watch Out For on Halloween

 

Here are 5 dangers that can quickly ruin your holiday – and how to prevent them.

Ghosts and goblins and witches, oh my! Halloween can be one of the most festive days of the year, whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart. But along with all of the costumes, treats and celebrations, it also poses several dangers that can easily ruin the fun. Knowing how to keep everyone safer means you’ll all get to enjoy every aspect of this deliciously ghoulish holiday.

Here are some of the dangers to watch out for on Halloween – and how to keep your family safer:

1. Tripping hazards – With all of the costumes and running around the neighborhood, it’s no surprise that tripping is one of the most likely causes of injuries during Halloween. To lower the risk of tripping, make sure costumes aren’t too long or too baggy. Also, skip any masks that can obstruct vision. Instruct kids to walk rather than run, use flashlights, and follow pathways instead of cutting across lawns and through flower beds.
2. Fire hazards – People love to light candles on Halloween, but they can be a fire hazard. Never leave candles unattended and keep flammable materials away from direct heat. Also, be careful if you light a fire in a firepit while waiting for trick-or-treaters. Make sure costumes are made from non-flammable materials and are not too flowy. Remind kids to stay away from any lit candles or luminaries while going from house to house.
3. Traffic hazards – Halloween is the most dangerous time for kids when it comes to potential traffic accidents. Teach kids to stay out of the road, to cross at the corner and to look both ways before entering the street. Make sure they’re easily visible, with reflective tape, glow sticks or flashlights. Tell them safety comes first and they should never run, dart into the street or play in areas where they’re not easily seen.
4. Cutting hazards – One of the top causes of injuries during Halloween occurs when carving pumpkins. Short of not carving a pumpkin, there’s no way to avoid using a knife or other sharp object to get the job done, but be extra careful when cutting to lower the risk of injury. Don’t let young children use sharp knives and avoid distractions when cutting.
5. Food hazards – Parents often check children’s candy for signs of tampering, but it’s more likely that your child will consume food that contains allergens than poison. Check for items that contain any foods your child is allergic to and watch out for cross-contamination. If your child goes to a party, talk to the host in advance to make sure your child doesn’t eat potentially unsafe foods. Limit how much candy is eaten at one time to avoid overconsumption, which can make a child (or you!) feel sick.

Halloween is one of the most festive holidays of the year, but getting injured or sick can quickly ruin the fun. By following these safety tips and being alert, aware and cautious, you and your kids are likely to have an enjoyable holiday filled with lots of treats and no tricky mishaps.

Copyright 2024 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: August 19, 2024

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

This Is the Best Way to Screen for Breast Cancer

 

Mammograms are still the best way to detect breast cancer early. Here’s when to get one.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American women, other than skin cancer. Approximately one in eight women will experience this disease in their lifetime and the best defense against breast cancer is to find it early, when it is most treatable. That’s why screenings are so important.

The most common – and best – way to screen for breast cancer is to get routine mammograms. This non-invasive test may find breast cancer before a lump can be felt or any symptoms are experienced. The low-dose X-rays may also be able to detect changes in the breast that can develop into breast cancer in the future.

There are two types of mammograms currently available – 2D and 3D mammograms. Many doctors recommend that women get 3D mammograms since they can provide a clearer picture of breast tissue. This is especially important if you have dense breasts.

If you are considered to be at average risk for breast cancer – meaning that you don’t have a strong family history or a genetic mutation known to increase breast cancer risk (such as a BRCA gene), haven’t had breast cancer in the past or have not had radiation therapy to your chest before age 30 – the American Cancer Society recommends the following schedule for getting mammograms:

• Ages 40 – 44: It is up to you whether you want to begin getting mammograms every year (previous recommendations were that women start getting mammograms at age 40 but that has changed).
• Ages 45 to 54: Get a mammogram every year.
• Ages 55 and older: If your previous mammograms have been clear, it is up to you whether you want to switch to getting mammograms every other year (or you can continue to get them yearly). Continue getting mammograms as long as you are expected to live at least 10 more years.

If you are considered to be at high risk for breast cancer, it may be recommended that you get an annual mammogram starting at age 30 or an age determined based on other factors. Women at high risk may have a known BRCA gene mutation (or a first-degree relative with the gene mutation), a strong family history of breast cancer, a personal history of breast cancer or a history of having radiation therapy to the chest prior to age 30.

Women at high risk for breast cancer may also need an annual breast MRI. If your doctor recommends that you have a breast MRI, it should be done in addition to a mammogram, not in place of one. Mammograms are still considered the gold standard of breast cancer screening.

Breast self-exams, as well as breast exams done by a healthcare professional (clinical breast exams), are not considered to be effective screening tools for breast cancer on their own. You should be familiar with how your breasts look and feel and report any changes to your doctor, but the best way to screen for breast cancer is to get mammograms according to recommended guidelines based on your age and risk status.

Copyright 2024 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: August 15, 2024

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

Is There a Way to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

 

It’s hard to know if this life-threatening condition will occur, but here’s info that may help.

As its name implies, sudden cardiac arrest is a condition that happens suddenly and often without warning. During this life-threatening emergency, the heart suddenly stops beating due to an irregular heart rhythm. This causes a person to stop breathing and prevents blood from flowing to the brain and other vital organs. If not treated immediately, sudden cardiac arrest can lead to death.

Treatment requires defibrillation, which sends a shock to the heart to restore its normal rhythm. This can be done by almost anyone using an automated external defibrillator (AED), if one is available, or by medical personnel. While waiting for emergency medical care, doing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may save a person’s life.

Sudden cardiac arrest usually happens with no warning. However, a person may experience symptoms before it happens, including chest discomfort, shortness of breath, heart palpitations (a fast, fluttering or pounding heart beat) or weakness. When the event occurs, the person will suddenly collapse, lose consciousness, stop breathing and have no pulse.

It is not possible to predict if and when someone will go into sudden cardiac arrest. You may be more at risk if you have heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, cardiomyopathy, a congenital heart defect or heart arrhythmias. However, sudden cardiac arrest can happen to people who have no known heart problems.

One cause of sudden cardiac arrest, especially in younger people, is a heart arrhythmia called long QT syndrome. Genetic tests can be done to see if you have the long QT gene. Other causes, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congenital heart defects, may also put young people at risk. Although this life-threatening condition is rare in younger people, we’ve likely all heard or seen instances of athletes who suddenly collapse on the field or court. That’s why many athletic programs require or recommend a cardiac evaluation that includes a physical exam, assessment of family and personal health histories, and in some cases, electrocardiography (ECG).

Because it’s not easy to predict who may experience sudden cardiac arrest, there is no sure-fire way to prevent it. Keeping your heart as healthy as possible may lower your risk, just as it lowers your risk for other serious heart issues such as a heart attack. This includes things like eating healthy, getting regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol and getting regular check-ups.

Since the stakes are so high if sudden cardiac arrest occurs, the best protection is to know CPR and have access to an AED (and to hope that others have this knowledge if sudden cardiac arrest happens to you). If a person is considered to be at high risk of sudden cardiac arrest, it may be recommended that they get an implantable cardiac defibrillator, which is a small battery-operated device that is placed in the chest and can shock the heart back into normal rhythm if needed.

Copyright 2024 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: August 19, 2024

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

Do The Newer Allergy Meds Work Better?

 

There are many medicines on the market to treat seasonal allergies. Here are the differences.

Several types of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications treat allergy symptoms. When it comes to relieving the symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes, OTC medications are most often used.

The most common OTC medications to treat seasonal allergies are antihistamines and corticosteroids. These allergy meds come in many forms, including pills, capsules, dissolvable tablets, liquids, nasal sprays and eye drops. Each has its benefits and drawbacks and some may work better than others, depending on the triggers and symptoms.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines stop cells in the body from being affected by histamine, a chemical released by the body’s immune system in response to an allergen. Histamine is what causes symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Oral antihistamines, as well as those administered as nasal sprays and eye drops, are effective at easing many allergy symptoms but some may cause drowsiness, especially first-generation antihistamines. First-generation antihistamines include drugs like:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Brompheniramine (Children’s Dimetapp Cold)
• Doxylamine (Nyquil)
• Dimenhydrinte (Dramamine)

However, newer antihistamines, often referred to as second- or third-generation antihistamines, are less likely to make you drowsy because they do not cross the blood-brain barrier like first-generation antihistamines. They’re also safer for long-term use because they have less effect on your heart and interact better with other medications. Additionally, the newer antihistamines typically last up to 24 hours and can be more effective at treating seasonal allergy symptoms.

These newer antihistamines are now the most commonly used OTC options for treating seasonal allergies. They include drugs like:

• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
• Desloratadine (Clarinex)

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids work by suppressing the inflammation caused by your immune system in the presence of allergens.

The most common OTC allergy medications that use this type of drug come in the form of nasal sprays. They include:

• Fluticasone propionate (Flonase)
• Mometasone (Nasonex)
• Triamcinolone (Nasacort)

Corticosteroids may also be used by prescription in oral form or as inhalers. These are designed to treat more severe allergy symptoms but may have risks when taken over the long term.

Which allergy medicine should you take?

When choosing an allergy medicine, it’s important to consider factors such as:

• What type of medicine is it? Is it an antihistamine or a corticosteroid? If it’s an antihistamine, is it a newer type that doesn’t cause drowsiness?
• How well does it work for your symptoms? Some people find that one medication (or combination of medications) works better for them than others, so you may need to experiment a bit to see what is most effective for you.
• What side effects does the medicine have? It’s important to weigh the benefits of any medicine with any side effects or risks, especially if you have health conditions or take other medications.

The good news is that many people find relief from seasonal allergy symptoms using OTC medications. If your symptoms are more severe or don’t respond to OTC medications, talk to your doctor about whether prescription allergy medications or other treatments are right for you.

Copyright 2024 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: August 15, 2024

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

The 5 Most Important Things to Do to Prepare for Natural Disasters

 

Here’s how to be well-prepared in case there’s a storm, fire or flood where you live.

Natural disasters can happen in just about any place and at any time. From hurricanes and tornadoes to fires and floods, these serious events may occur without much warning. Even if you have time to prepare, it can be stressful and anxiety-producing to know a natural disaster may be imminent. That’s why the best way to get through these events is to take time to prepare for them in advance.

Preparing for natural disasters may not be the first thing people think of doing unless news of an imminent storm or potentially catastrophic event is spurring them on. But the time to get ready for these events is not right before they happen. If you take the time to prepare well in advance, you’ll be ready to handle whatever may happen – and will likely be able to do so with less stress and more confidence.

Here are 5 of the most important things to consider when creating a disaster preparedness plan:

1. Get together the stuff you’ll need. Plan to be self-sufficient for at least three days. This includes having enough water and non-perishable food for everyone in your family, as well as needed medications. Don’t forget any special needs or your pets. Also pack up an emergency kit that includes flashlights, a portable battery-operated radio, batteries, a first aid kit, money, important documents and supplies to keep things clean. You’ll also need changes of clothing and other items, such as comfort items for the kids if you need to leave home. Pack what you would need to take with you in an easy-to-carry bag in case you need to leave in a hurry. Store other supplies where you would shelter in place in case you can’t leave your home.
2. Make an evacuation plan. Decide where your family will go if you need to leave and how you will reunite if you are separated. Create an emergency contact list and plan out evacuation routes. Tell everyone in the family where you need to go in or around your house in a disaster (such as meeting at the mailbox in case of fire) and conduct practice drills so everyone knows what to do.
3. Learn what to do and avoid. Know how to secure your home and eliminate hazards, such as shutting off the gas, water and electricity in your house if needed. Explain any potential dangers if there are storms or other disasters and make sure everyone knows what to stay away from (such as windows, unsecured furniture, downed power lines or standing water).
4. Pay attention to alerts. Sign up for alerts from your local municipality so you’ll know if you need to evacuate or shelter in place. Don’t ignore warnings or decide that you’ll be okay to ride things out if you’re told you need to leave.
5. Stay calm. Being prepared makes it more likely you’ll be able to stay calm when you’re in the midst of a natural disaster. Take steps to make sure you and your loved ones are safe. Follow your plan and listen to any instructions from local authorities. Pay attention to your family’s mental health in addition to keeping everyone safe and healthy.

Copyright 2024 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: July 17, 2024

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

These Are the Symptoms of a Prostate Problem

 

Here are symptoms of three common prostate problems to look out for.

As men age, one part of the body that often causes concern due to possible health issues is the prostate. This small gland, located just below the bladder that helps make semen, can be affected by cancer, as well as non-cancerous conditions. Being able to recognize the symptoms of prostate problems will help you know when it’s time to see a doctor.

Here are symptoms of some of the most common prostate problems in men.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (Enlarged Prostate)

This is a condition in which the prostate is enlarged but it is not cancerous. The prostate commonly enlarges as men get older so age is the biggest risk factor for the condition. It can result in bladder, urinary tract and kidney problems.

Symptoms include:

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Urinating often at night
• Trouble starting to urinate
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Not being able to fully empty the bladder

Symptoms tend to slowly get worse but they may also stay the same for long periods of time.

Prostatitis

This condition refers to inflammation in the prostate that is often caused by a bacterial infection, although there may be other causes. The condition can be acute (comes on suddenly and goes away after a short period or time) or it can be chronic, where it comes back again and again.

Symptoms of prostatitis may differ depending on the cause and whether it is acute or chronic, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Painful urination, including burning when urinating
• Difficulty urinating, such as trouble starting to urinate, weak stream or dribbling at the end of urination
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Urgent need to urinate
• Pain in the groin, pelvic area, genitals, abdomen or lower back
• Cloudy urine or blood in urine
• Painful ejaculation
• Fever, chills, muscle aches and flu-like symptoms (with acute bacterial infection)

Prostate Cancer

This is the second most common cancer in men (after skin cancer). Your risk increases as you get older and if you have a family history of the disease. Your race may also affect your risk of the disease (African American men are most at risk while Asian American men have the lowest rates of prostate cancer). A high-fat diet may also increase your risk. The good news is that prostate cancer often grows slowly (although some types can get worse quickly).

Early stages of prostate cancer may cause no symptoms, but as the cancer advances you may notice these symptoms:

• Difficulty urinating
• Weak stream or interrupted flow when urinating
• Urinating often, especially at night
• Trouble emptying the bladder completely
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Erectile dysfunction
• Pain, stiffness or swelling in the lower back, hips, thighs or legs
• Losing weight without trying
• Fatigue

Since symptoms of different prostate problems are often similar, it is best to see your primary doctor or a urologist if you have any of the symptoms listed. Getting a proper diagnosis can help you treat the condition you have more effectively.

Copyright 2024 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: July 16, 2024

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.