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Topic: Health Topics

Fibromyalgia: A practical guide to treating pain, fatigue, and brain fog

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain in the muscles and joints throughout the body. While researchers don’t know what causes fibromyalgia, it’s a real health condition that affects at least four million adults in the United States. There is no test to diagnose it—and no cure—but your doctor can help you find treatments to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

7 relaxation techniques to reduce stress

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Stress is an unavoidable part of life. Over time, chronic stress can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure, weaken your immune system, and harm both your physical and mental health. While you may be tempted to binge-watch TV or scroll through social media on your phone at the end of a long day, staring at a screen does little to reduce the damaging effects of stress on your mind and body. Practicing relaxation techniques is a much healthier and more effective way to reduce stress.

Irritable bowel syndrome: Symptoms of IBS, foods to avoid, and treatment options

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects 25 to 45 million people in the U.S. IBS can cause uncomfortable symptoms, including abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, cramps, excessive gas, and bloating. It can also change how often you have a bowel movement and the appearance of your stool. Fortunately, if you suffer from IBS, you can often manage your symptoms through dietary and lifestyle changes.

Acupuncture: What it is, how it works, and who can benefit from the treatment

Acupuncture is a form of medicine that originated in China and has been practiced for thousands of years. The procedure first came to the United States in the early 1970s, and its popularity has been growing ever since. Still, there are a lot of misconceptions about acupuncture, and many people in the West wonder if acupuncture is based in science or if it really works. Here are some answers to the most common questions about acupuncture.

Long COVID: How to protect yourself from the long-term effects of COVID-19

Most people who get COVID-19 recover completely within a few days to several weeks. However, about one in 20 people infected with COVID-19 experience long-term symptoms that can last up to 18 months or even years after the initial infection. Anyone who was infected with the virus that causes the disease can continue to experience symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and brain fog. In fact, millions of so-called COVID long-haulers suffer from the condition.

Reduce your risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, often find it difficult to breathe while doing everyday activities. The condition can make it feel like you’re running out of air even when you take a deep breath, and you may have a cough that won’t go away. Early detection of COPD can change its progress, so be sure to see your doctor if you have signs of this chronic lung disease.

A beginner’s guide to starting behavioral therapy

While many people are reluctant to start seeing a therapist, therapy can be an effective treatment for a wide range of mental and emotional issues. From relationship problems and job stress to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, and more, a therapist can help you get to the source of your problems, overcome emotional challenges, and make positive changes in your life. Here are some tips on finding a therapist and getting the most out of your therapy sessions.

7 healthy New Year’s resolutions you can actually keep

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The beginning of a new year is a great time to make healthy lifestyle changes, give up bad habits, and improve your well-being. It’s no wonder that many Americans celebrate the New Year by resolving to get healthier. The most popular New Year’s resolutions include getting more exercise, losing weight, and eating a healthier diet. While only a small percentage of people actually keep their resolutions, here are some steps you can take to get healthier in the year ahead and achieve your health goals.

Seasonal affective disorder: Ways to ease seasonal depression

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Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered by changing seasons. Most people with SAD begin to experience symptoms during the fall as the weather turns colder and the days grow shorter. The condition may worsen throughout the winter before ending in the spring. SAD is not simply a case of the “winter blues.” Rather, it’s a form of depression that affects your daily life and changes the way you think and feel. Fortunately, many treatment options are available.