
Overview Many people feel uneasy about professional dental cleanings. Between the poking, unfamiliar sounds, and occasional jaw soreness, it’s understandable why some are anxious. For most patients, however, a cleaning is straightforward and comfortable. Being familiar with each step of the appointment can reduce anxiety and help you appreciate the clean, fresh outcome. (img by Kiefer Family Dental) 1. A physical exam The majority of cleanings are carried out by…

If your wisdom teeth are impacted, both home treatments and medical care can ease discomfort. In certain situations, surgical extraction may be necessary to remove the wisdom teeth. (img by Advanced Dental Clinic) Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars located at the very rear of the mouth. Typically between ages 17 and 25, these teeth begin to push up through the jawbone as they try to emerge through…

Failing a stress test happens when you’re unable to complete it because of exhaustion or other limiting factors. Abnormal findings can point to an underlying issue, such as coronary artery disease or an arterial blockage. A stress test — often called an exercise stress test or treadmill test — is a diagnostic exam that assesses how the heart performs under stress, usually while you’re exercising. (img by HealthCentral) During the…

Oat milk has rapidly risen in popularity as a plant-based option for everything from morning cereal to cooking and baking. Many plant-based milks — made from nuts, seeds, coconut, rice, and soy — are typically gluten-free, so you might assume oat milk is as well. However, if you have celiac disease or are sensitive to gluten, oat milk might not be a safe choice. This article clarifies whether oat milk…

Oatmeal is a timeless, wholesome breakfast option. It’s commonly prepared using instant, rolled, or steel-cut oats, combined with ingredients such as milk, water, brown sugar, or fruit. However, some versions of oatmeal are more healthful than others. While instant packets loaded with sugar can contribute to weight gain, homemade bowls sweetened only with fruit may support weight loss. No matter your objectives, you can tweak your oatmeal to favor either…

If you notice redness, flushing, or a runny nose after eating a bowl of oatmeal, you might be allergic or sensitive to a protein present in oats called avenin. (img by Alan Khadavi, MD) Both oat allergy and oat sensitivity provoke an immune response. The body creates antibodies to fight what it perceives as a foreign invader — in this case, avenin. Some people who develop symptoms after consuming oats…

Tuina massage is a traditional manual therapy that traces its roots to ancient China. Providers assert it can improve circulation, ease muscle and joint discomfort, and lower stress levels. (img by ACA Acupuncture and Wellness) Also written as Tui Na (pronounced twee-nah), Tuina developed in China and, alongside acupuncture, qigong, and herbal medicine, represents one of the four primary branches of traditional Chinese medicine. Its foundation rests on the belief…

Your forehead veins can become more prominent due to age, stress, or increased pressure. They tend to stand out more in people who are very thin or have low body fat. Protruding veins, especially on the face, are usually harmless. They most commonly appear on the middle of the forehead or along the sides near the temples. While aging is a frequent factor, pronounced forehead veins may also indicate elevated…

Microneedling sessions typically range from $200 to $700 per treatment. While the number of visits varies, most people require three to six treatments to achieve the best outcome. That means your total expense can fall anywhere between $600 and $4,200. Because microneedling is usually viewed as a cosmetic procedure, it’s rarely covered by health insurance. As a result, you’ll likely pay out of pocket. Some providers may offer payment plans…