Scientists studying the body’s natural defenses against bacterial infection have identified a nutrient — taurine — that helps the gut recall prior infections and kill invading bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kpn). The finding, published in the journal Cell by scientists from five institutes of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), could aid efforts seeking… Continue reading A Nutrient that Kills Invading Bacteria
Tag: bacteria
How to Avoid Acne while Wearing Your Face Mask
“Maskne.” The nickname may be cute, but the reality isn’t: Unsightly pimples that erupt in our face-mask zone. But we can take steps to prevent mask-related breakouts so that we feel comfortable wearing our masks and confident about taking them off when it’s safe.” As research has increased on the role face masks play in… Continue reading How to Avoid Acne while Wearing Your Face Mask
How to Stop Workout Acne
Working out can cause excessive sweating, as well as a buildup of oil, dirt, and bacteria on your skin — all of which can lead to acne. However, you don’t have to quit exercising in order to see clearer skin. The key is to maintain proper hygiene before, during, and after your workouts. Here’s what… Continue reading How to Stop Workout Acne
Bacteria in Saliva May Be Linked to Heart Disease
Bacteria in the saliva of people with clogged arteries appears to be different from that of healthy people, according to a small study. The finding could open the door for new strategies to fight heart disease. The preliminary research, presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions, comes in the wake of past research showing… Continue reading Bacteria in Saliva May Be Linked to Heart Disease
The Six Hidden Hazards of Tailgating
Tailgating is one of the best parts of football season — but nothing quashes team spirit quite like food poisoning. Understanding different types of bacteria and the ways they can be transmitted, plus a plan to keep your food safe, is key to enjoying your tailgate and keeping guests healthy, says Rachael Lee, M.D., assistant… Continue reading The Six Hidden Hazards of Tailgating
What You Need to Know About Nail Trimming
Keeping fingernails and toenails in good shape does more than enhance your appearance: this simple yet important self-care routine eliminates the risk of dirt and bacteria, which can lead to infection. In addition, the right nail-clipping technique can help prevent common issues like hangnails and ingrown toenails. “Short nails stay cleaner and break less often,”… Continue reading What You Need to Know About Nail Trimming
Tattoo Complications May Warrant A Trip to The Doctor
Research indicates that 10 percent of people with tattoos experience some sort of complication, such as pain or infection. While their first inclination may be to seek help from the artist who gave them their tattoo, it may be necessary to see a board-certified dermatologist for the proper diagnosis and treatment of skin problems, according… Continue reading Tattoo Complications May Warrant A Trip to The Doctor
A Closer Look at the Environmental Triggers of Autoimmune Disease
The world of autoimmune disease is broad and complex, with many mysteries still lurking. With over 100 types of autoimmune diseases identified, including lupus, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, medical researchers are constantly seeking to gain a better understanding of how, when and why these conditions are triggered. While many diseases in general are associated… Continue reading A Closer Look at the Environmental Triggers of Autoimmune Disease
A More Complex Understanding of Sepsis
Sepsis is a common condition that occurs when the body reacts to an infection in the bloodstream. Scientists know little about the early stages of the condition; however, physicians must act fast. Every hour that passes without one or more of the few treatments available increases the risk of death. Now, researchers from Sanford Burnham… Continue reading A More Complex Understanding of Sepsis
Earlier Detection for Lyme Disease
Researchers have developed techniques to detect Lyme disease bacteria weeks sooner than current tests, allowing patients to start treatment earlier. The findings appear in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases. The authors include scientists from Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Harvard University, Yale University, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, FDA, Centers for Disease… Continue reading Earlier Detection for Lyme Disease
New Asthma Biomarkers Identified From Lung Bacteria
Until now, research on the microbiome – the system of good and bad bacteria in the body – has been focused on digestive issues. But a new study shows that it may affect respiratory conditions as well. “Because the lungs continuously and automatically draw air, and any number of environmental agents, into the body, the… Continue reading New Asthma Biomarkers Identified From Lung Bacteria
Antibiotics May Not Be Needed for Older Patients with Urinary Tract Infections
Prescribing antibiotics for urinary tract infections may not be necessary for older patients, according to new research. That conclusion was reached by Thomas E. Finucane, MD, of the Johns Hopkins Geriatrics Center at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. The finding was published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. According to a news release from… Continue reading Antibiotics May Not Be Needed for Older Patients with Urinary Tract Infections
The Truth About Fecal Transplants: Medical Miracle?
Fecal transplants – the transfer of fecal bacteria from a healthy person into a patient – may sound far-fetched or even bizarre. But the technique, which has been documented as far back as 4th century China, is helping people who suffer from a potentially dangerous and even fatal bacterial infection. First approved by the federal… Continue reading The Truth About Fecal Transplants: Medical Miracle?
Should You Ever Skip Washing Produce?
Editor’s note: Food poisoning ranges from the possibly fatal to the just yucky. Here, the Mayo Clinic talks about what fruits and vegetables you should pre-wash – and which ones should you leave alone: According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) you should be washing most fruits and vegetables, Mayo says. (Click here… Continue reading Should You Ever Skip Washing Produce?
Raw Dough Can Be A Raw Deal
Do you find it hard to resist gobbling up a piece of raw dough when making cookies, or letting your grandkids scrape the bowl? Do children in your family use raw dough to make ornaments or homemade “play” clay? If your answer to any of those questions is yes, that could be a problem. Eating… Continue reading Raw Dough Can Be A Raw Deal
Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs: Worse than You Thought
Even when hot tubs and swimming pools are disinfected, they’re not as clean as you might think, according to new research. A study published in the American Chemical Society’s journal Environmental Science & Technology showed that the more these facilities are used, the more potentially harmful compounds they contain. Disinfectants such as chlorine kill pathogens… Continue reading Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs: Worse than You Thought
What You Should Know About Colorectal Cancer – and New Research
Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women, according to the Mayo Clinic. Roughly 140,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the United States each year. Because of its frequency, it’s essential to know about the illness, its symptoms and its treatment. Here, colorectal surgeon Heidi Nelson,… Continue reading What You Should Know About Colorectal Cancer – and New Research
Spices and Salmonella
When it comes to food safety, we tend to think about improperly cooked or stored food. But there is a risk from another source: spices commonly found in stores. The federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been monitoring the safety of spices, focusing on the presence of Salmonella. Here, the agency answers some frequently… Continue reading Spices and Salmonella