📰 Doctors reveal key signs of Lyme disease as tick season intensifies across US

Doctors reveal key signs of Lyme disease as tick season intensifies across US

Lyme disease is prevalent in certain regions of the U.S., with cases expanding to new areas. The disease is caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria transmitted through the bite of a black-legged tick. Symptoms can include muscle and joint pain, cardiac issues, and neurological conditions. Early signs of Lyme disease include a bull’s-eye rash, joint aches, and overwhelming fatigue. Testing for Lyme disease should be timed correctly to avoid false negatives, and immediate medical attention is recommended after a tick bite.

If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to more severe conditions like Bell’s palsy, Lyme meningitis, and carditis. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for Lyme disease, with different courses depending on the severity. Chronic Lyme disease, or PTLDS, may require symptom-based therapies rather than additional antibiotics. Further research is needed to understand and treat PTLDS effectively.

Preventing tick bites is crucial in avoiding Lyme disease, and experts recommend specific preventive measures. In case of a tick bite, prompt tick removal and seeking medical advice are advised. Testing for other tick-borne illnesses like babesiosis may be necessary if Lyme treatment is ineffective. Antiparasitic medications may be required for babesiosis treatment.

📰 Weight-loss patients taking Zepbound forced to switch to Wegovy after drop in coverage

Weight-loss patients taking Zepbound forced to switch to Wegovy after drop in coverage

Patients taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, specifically Zepbound, faced a change in insurance coverage as CVS Caremark dropped Zepbound from its preferred drug list on July 1. This decision was made due to rising costs, with CVS Caremark partnering with Novo Nordisk to increase access to Wegovy, a competing weight loss medication. The switch caused frustration among patients who were seeing positive results with Zepbound and now have to transition to Wegovy, leading to concerns about potential disruptions in their progress and care continuity. Patients who experienced severe side effects or insufficient weight loss with Wegovy can request a formulary exception to be covered for a different weight loss drug. Despite the effectiveness of Zepbound in achieving greater weight loss compared to Wegovy in a recent clinical trial, the cost of purchasing Zepbound directly from Eli Lilly is high, prompting some patients to seek alternative sources for the medication.

📰 World’s most premature baby defies all medical odds to reach 1st birthday

World's most premature baby defies all medical odds to reach 1st birthday

Nash Keen, born 133 days premature, is officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the most premature baby to survive. His parents, Mollie and Randall Keen, faced challenges due to Mollie’s health issues, including an incompetent cervix and PCOS. Nash was born at just 285 grams and 24 centimeters long, defying the odds at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The medical team provided life-saving care, delaying labor until Nash surpassed the critical 21-week mark. After a 198-day hospital stay, Nash was able to go home in January 2025, continuing to be monitored for ongoing health issues.

Nash’s journey was closely monitored by the medical team, including neonatologist Amy Stanford, who placed a breathing tube to stabilize his heart rate. Despite the slim chances of survival, the team provided ongoing care and surgery for a perforated bowel. Nash’s parents were kept informed and involved in decision-making throughout the process. Nash still faces some health challenges, including a minor heart defect, but is progressing with therapy sessions and support.

The ultimate goal for Nash is to lead a healthy and normal life, with his mother expressing a desire for him to grow up feeling loved and confident. The medical team at Stead Family Children’s Hospital played a crucial role in Nash’s survival and ongoing care. Nash’s story serves as a source of inspiration and hope for others facing similar challenges.

📰 Forget 10,000 steps — research reveals the real number you need for better health

Forget 10,000 steps — research reveals the real number you need for better health

A new study suggests that walking just 7,000 steps per day could be sufficient to improve essential health markers, contrary to the widely recommended 10,000 steps benchmark. Researchers from the University of Sydney reviewed 57 studies from over 10 countries to track participants’ steps and health outcomes. Walking at least 7,000 steps daily was found to reduce the risk of various health issues, including heart disease, dementia, and depression. The study, led by Professor Melody Ding, revealed that even modest increases in daily steps, such as going from 2,000 to 4,000 steps, can lead to significant health benefits. The researchers emphasized that incorporating more movement into daily routines, such as taking stairs instead of elevators, can contribute to overall health improvement.

📰 Simple Japanese fitness trend could add 7 years to life expectancy, experts say

Simple Japanese fitness trend could add 7 years to life expectancy, experts say

Recent fitness trends are focusing on finding the best method of exercise that promotes fitness without intense workouts, such as “Zone 2” training and hitting 10,000 steps a day. Japanese walking, which alternates between fast and slow paces, is one of the latest trends in this conversation. A study from Japan compared interval walking to steady-speed walking and found that moderate-intensity interval walking could protect against age-associated effects like increased blood pressure and muscle weakening. Japanese walking involves alternating between fast and slow walking for 30 minutes, similar to Zone 2 training that works at 60-70% of maximum heart rate. This approach has been shown to have health benefits for middle- and older-aged adults, including those with metabolic diseases. It is important to choose an exercise routine that is enjoyable, appropriate for your fitness level, and safe to ensure consistency in physical activity.

카테고리: HEALTH

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