Health News

Health News for 11/14/10

November 14, 2010

Social Class May Affect Outcome of Depression Treatment

Depression treatments appear to be less effective in helping poor and working class patients function at work, a new study finds.

When Romance and Allergies Don't Mix

The course of true love may not run smoothly for some people with highly sensitive allergies, experts say, since kissing or other intimate contact can pose risks for sometimes serious reactions.

Among Cell-Phone Junkies, Rash on the Rise

If you're an incessant cell phone user and a mysterious rash appears along your jaw, cheek or ear, chances are you're allergic to nickel, a metal commonly used in cell phones.

For Some, Care May Be Withdrawn Too Soon After Cardiac Arrest

For people stricken with sudden cardiac arrest, doctors often resort to a brain-protecting "cooling" of the body, a procedure called therapeutic hypothermia.

CPR Guidelines May Lower Out-of-Hospital Death Rate

When implemented, the American Heart Association's 2005 guidelines on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can dramatically boost survival rates among people being treated outside a hospital setting, according to an expert report.

Study Urges Teens to Cut Down on Salt

Teens who eat less salt lower their long-term risk for high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, new research indicates.

Vitamin D Shortage Not Tied to Stroke Deaths in Blacks: Study

New research suggests that vitamin D deficiency does not boost stroke death rates among black patients, even though it appears to double the risk for whites.

Death of Loved One May Trigger Elevated Heart Rate

In the months following the death of a spouse or a child, the surviving spouse or parent may face a higher risk of heart attack or sudden cardiac death due to an increased heart rate, new research suggests.

Having Relative With Atrial Fibrillation Raises Own Risk

People who have a first-degree relative with atrial fibrillation are at increased risk themselves for the potentially deadly heart rhythm disorder, a new study finds.

Brain Organizes Itself for Introspection as Children Age: Study

As children mature, increased synchronization between specific areas of the brain alter how they view themselves and others, a new study suggests.

Device Improves Survival of Heart Failure Patients: Study

Canadian researchers report that an implantable device called a resynchronization therapy-defibrillator helps keep the left side of the heart pumping properly, extending the life of heart failure patients.

Antibody Linked to Allergies on the Rise

It's a common belief that as you get older, your allergy symptoms will wane, but a new study suggests it's possible that even more older people will be experiencing allergies than ever before.

Minneapolis Study Points to Sharp Drop in Smoking Rates

The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul saw a sharp decline in the number of adult smokers over the last three decades, perhaps mirroring trends elsewhere in the United States, experts say.

Stressful Jobs May Raise Women's Heart Attack Risk, Study Finds

Women who have taxing jobs with little control over their busy days are at higher risk for heart attacks or the need for coronary bypass surgery, new research suggests.

A Little Alcohol May Help the Heart: Studies

Moderate drinking may be good for your health -- better, in fact, than not drinking at all, according to a trio of studies presented Sunday at the American Heart Association annual meeting in Chicago.