Doctors reveal their best health advice of all time in a new survey
Now more than ever, their advice counts.
You will not find any shortage of medical advice during coronavirus. Separate the myth from the fact, the flow of exceeding can be delicate. And what advice is really essential, the most important to hierarchize?
Cutting noise - that's why we asked doctors of the most important advice they want to know. Here's what they told us.Read on and to ensure your health and health of others, do not miss theseSigns that your illness is actually coronavirus in disguise.
Take the threat of COVID-19 seriously
Do not drink dietary soda!
"Many people associate with dietary soda or other dietary drinks, such as a healthy alternative to some drinks," said Drew Miller, MD, family doctor in Lakin, Kansas. "However, many studies have been recorded on the link between dietary soda and weight gain, as well as the increased risk of developing diabetes, heart problems or other chronic health problems."
RX: Sump this soda for water, selTzer without artificial sweeteners, nor water spa house - add slices of lemons, limes, oranges or grapefruit to a pitcher of H20.
Do not be so hard on doctors
"For the most part, people are trying to be useful, living up to expectations and keeping their patients in good health," said Ariel B. Grobman, MD, Certified Otoryryngologist with the Greater Miami ENT. "Errors occur and problems can be missed, but we should have a compassion for health practitioners."
Avoid this disinfectant
"Many people think that hydrogen peroxide bubbling on a wound is proof that there were bacteria in the wound and that bacteria are killed," explains Dr. Robert Beam of Novant Health-Gohealth urgent care to Kernersville, North Carolina. "The bubbling justifies its repetitive use."
RX: Clean the wounds with soap and water, apply an antibacterial ointment and cover with a bandwidth. But jump the bubble stuff. "Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful oxidizing agent," explains the beam. "It damages all organic, bacterial and human materials."
Breathe this way for better sleep
"Breathing through the nose is a simple but effective method for sleeping better," saysAnil Rama, MD, Auxiliary clinical faculty at Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine. "Our nervous system consists of two parts: the sympathetic system and the parasympathetic system. The sympathetic or" combat and flight "system is active during the day; the parasympathetic system or" rest and digest "is more active at night. Any process that increases the activity of the sympathetic nervous system makes sleep difficult. Breathing of the mouth increases the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. "
Hierarchize mental health
"If I could give advice to health, it would be to preserve your mental health and inner peace at all costs," says Sophia O. Tolliver, MD, MPH, family medicine doctor with the Ohio State Medical Center State Wexner Medical.
RX:"Medialy morning and establish an interior agenda and positive intention can be a great way to put the tone for the day," she says. "At the end of a long day, meditating to erase your mind of any negativity, forgiving the upheavals of the day and getting closer to your authentic can give the scene for a restful and relaxing sleep and is really a form of personal care to his highest level. "
Do this to reduce your risk of breast cancer death
"Get your annual screening mammograms, know your family cancer history and educate your children about cancer identification, management and risk reduction," says Anjali Malik, MD, Mammary Imaging Radiologist in Washington , DC "Annual screening mammograms reduce the deaths of breast cancer by 40%."
RX:"With the two main risk factors for breast cancer being unmodifiable (female and aging), it is important for every woman, whatever the history of the family, to have an annual mammogram from 40 years, "he said.
Know your family history of cancer
"Knowing your family's history of all cancers (breast, colon, ovary, pancreatic, thyroid, lung, melanoma) can affect your overall cancer risk and can raise the need to test genetic," says Malik. " Identify our risks and how to reduce those that are modifiable is a key element of precision prevention and medicine in the 21st century. "
Avoid workouts in equilibrium
"Aging is a process that none of us is safe from, and therefore the preparation of this is crucial," says Dr. Thanu Jey, DC, Director of the Clinic toYorkville Sports Medicine Clinic. "Many old-age accidents occur falls and it is important to start training in fall prevention before it is too late."
RX: "How to age your parents, it's a good idea to start stability and early equilibrium formation, so it becomes a part of their daily routine," Jey said.
Eat well
"It is important to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle because health and global well-being decreases the chances of many problems, including heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, etc., said Nodar Janas, MD, Medical Director ofRehabilitation and breastfeeding center of the upper part of New York. Eating with force can be a powerful tool to maintain a healthy weight.
RX: At the meal, "decrease the size of your portion of at least half, be sure to make your food chew, make a daily fruit and vegetable meal, and stop eating at least two hours before sleeping," advises Janas. "It takes 15 minutes for the stomach receivers to send information to the brain tell them that you are full, so if you eat slowly at the beginning of your meal, you can eat a third of the party you could otherwise eat. "
Do not ignore the pain at this place
"If you have a few long periods near where the front pocket of your jeans are, it probably comes from your hip articulation," saysDerek Ochii, MD, orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine in Arlington, Virginia. "You probably should not ignore it, and at least have it checked by an orthopedic surgeon, before it becomes arthritis."
You must update socialize
Even when cities reopen after locking, it is always important to maintain a distance of six feet from others to prevent the propagation of coronavirus. Until a vaccine is developed or an antibody test, we can not be sure who are at risk - so it must assume that everyone is at risk.
Be vigilant with prescriptions
"When prescribed medications, ask your doctor to explain why you need it, and if you agree, be compliant," says Janas. "In the United States, we are excessive."
RX: "When you are prescribed a medicine by your doctor, make sure to take the time to understand why this has been prescribed," says Janas.
Put this old woman in bed
"Nourish a cold, hunger a fever is not true!" Said Betsy Koickel, MD, Associate Medical Director of Northwell Health-Gohealth Urgent Care in New York. "Taking a sufficient amount of calories and fluids are important for your body that combat most diseases. Increase your liquid consumption during any disease is useful for your immune system. Fasting during the disease can make you more at risk of weakness , dehydration and fainting. "
RX: Eat as normal when you are sick and make sure for hydration. Watch four glasses of water a day when you are healthy; During the disease, you might need more.
You must want the therapy to work
"If you think you should go to therapy, but do not really want to invest emotionally, are not really willing to be vulnerable and working hard and sometimes to suffer, it will probably not work so lose your time and your money , "SaidGail Saltz, MDAssociate Professor of Psychiatry at the New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill-Cornell Medicine School. "Therapy is not a magic wand, you must actually participate fully."
Feel grateful is underestimated
"However, difficult things are in life, take a few minutes every day to think about what you appreciate," says Salz. "If you do not do it, you will probably not and honestly, you can completely lose the perspective of your life."
RX: "Take five minutes every day and think about what you feel grateful," says Salz. "You will find that even more than two weeks, you will feel more positively."
Bright therapy box really works
The "winter blues" are not a myth or something to ignore. "Many people really have a mood change for the worst when the days become shorter. If you feel seasonal or irritable or tired and slow motion, try light!" said Salz. "It's strange that people think that the light can do something to your brain, but that does it. You need the right type of light, then everyday use, but it can change all your state of good -be during the autumn months / winter. "
RX: Many models of light boxes are available, at least expensive in Deluxe. Talk to your doctor about emotional changes related to the season you feel and if the therapy of the bright box may suit you.
Adequate sleep
"Make sure you have at least seven hours of sleep," says Janas. "Lower room temperature If you can not fall asleep or listen to relaxing music instead of relying on medications. Ironically, it's only one I'm not myself. I get about four hours from Sleep one night because I'm constantly receiving calls from patients or colleagues. However, I formed to work and work that way and I try throughout the day, to take naps when possible. "
RX: Experts like the National Sleep Foundation are recommended to get seven to nine hours of sleep one night. If you have chronic problems to get this amount, talk to your doctor. He or she could indicate the reduction of caffeine, limit the naps, get more exercise or tackle anxiety or depression.
Do this to avoid stress fractures
"You may not have an injury, but you can still get a stress fracture, which is microscopic bone damage," saysVelimir Petkov, MD, a certified board of the board with first Podataly in Clifton, New Jersey. "You can get them by wearing flip flops, sandals or shoes that do not have enough cushioning and shock absorption. Walk, jump, run or even standing for long periods of time can cause Stress fractures. "
RX: "Wear comfortable shoes with good padding, as well as having a lot of vitamin D and calcium is important in preventing stress fractures," says Petkov. "Your primary care doctor can order a bone density test to check your bone mass."
Avoid nail salons
While the nail lounges reopen: "Getting a pedicure may seem like a good idea, but many salons do not properly disinfect the swirls or feet on foot," says Petkov. "The drains and filters are often not cleaned between appointments. You can get a plantar wart, a bacterial or fungal infection that would require drugs, a lot of patience and time to get rid of. The foot of the athlete (Tinea Pedic) is a very common fungal infection that spreads particularly well in wetlands. "
Believe that the bases are the most important
"These eat the best foods, getting an adequate exercise throughout the day, handle chronic stress, improve sleep, avoid all tobacco products, challenge your mind daily and spend time with friends and the Family, "says Stephen C. Schimpff, MD, MACP, an oncologist certified by the board and a specialist in infectious diseases and the author ofDecoded Longevity - The 7 Keys of Healthy Aging.
Eat more plant-based foods
"We ate quality foods in my mother's day, but the focus was on meat like the centerpiece with vegetables like an add-on," says Schimpff. "If it were alive today, I would encourage it to add many other vegetables to its diet - organic if possible - reduce the potatoes and will only buy beef-based beef and chicken freely."
RX: "Make the vegetables half or more of your plate and meat no more than a quarter," says Schimpff. "Increases fish for omega-3s, uses olive oil and eat nuts and seeds and lawyers, all for their healthy oils".
Get a coronary artery calcium score
"This is a very fast and inexpensive CT analysis that can tell you if you have a hard plate in your coronary ships," says Anthony Younn, MD, author ofPlaying God: the evolution of a modern surgeon. "I recommend it to anyone over 40 who is concerned about the development of heart disease. It's super easy and inexpensive and could save your life."
RX: Ask your doctor if the test is right for you.
Practice good oral hygiene
"The most important advice I can give is to keep your mouth clean," saysCarl Medgaus, DMD, a dentist in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. "People often do not realize the systemic effect that oral health has on the body. Plate accumulation on teeth, for example, can lead to atherosclerous heart disease."
RX:"Use an electric toothbrush with a two-minute timer, separated in 30 seconds, so you know how long go to each section of the mouth," says Medgaus. "Then equip yourself with a flush with water. Nobody likes flossing. Even if I hate that. But it must be done. The dental silk is easier. I had my doubts about dizziness d 'Water at first, but clinical research shows that they are equivalent to the traditional thread when it comes to removing the plate. "
Drink this day
"Every day, drink a tea or coffee, as well as a cup of juice from Granada," says William W. Li, MD, author ofEat to beat the disease: the new science of how your body can heal. "Coffee and tea can slow down cell aging, starving cancer, reduce the risk of stroke and improve longevity. The natural chemicals of Grenada enhance your intestine microbiome to strengthen the immune system."
Avoid this treatment
"Do not stay long-term on estrogen replacement therapy," says Li. "Numerous older women have been taking hormonal replacements for years, but long-term use can increase the risk of breast cancer."
Eat more of that
"Eat more soy," says Li. "Unlike popular belief, soy does not cause breast cancer. In fact, research shows that more soy actually reduces the risk of breast cancer."
RX: Experts recommend eating a moderate amount of soy - one to two servings a day. Soy-rich foods include EdaMame, alternative meat such as impossible burger, soy milk, tempeh and soy protein.
Slow the spread of germs in this way
"As a health professional, I can not insist on this one," says Dena Nader, MD, regional medical director ofPoor Based in Washington, Pennsylvania. "Washing hands frequently, it's one of the best ways to avoid sickness and spread germs to others. But what we often forget, it's these other surfaces we touch all the time - our Phones, steering wheels, patio doors, faucets, toys, remote controls - which also wear bacteria that can make us sick. "
RX: "I generally recommend my patients that at least once a week, and more during the cold and the flu season, they remember to wipe these frequently affected areas, but easily neglected with antibacterial wipes to help slow down The propagation of germs, "says Nader. "Also, avoid putting pens or pencils in the mouth - but if it's a habit, you can not seem to break, be sure to disinfect these objects every day."
Exercise regularly - it's easier than you think
"Many patients who are talking about feeling overwhelmed with regular exercise because they think it takes time and hard work - but it does not have to be," says Nader.
RX: "Making small adjustments to your normal routine, as taking the steps instead of the elevator at work or in your apartment complex, can make a big difference," she says. "When you run shopping, try parking as far as possible stores, so you have to walk a little more. Take time during your lunch break and get a few steps while walking around your building. If and when you are ready to Take it at the next level, remember that it is always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. "
Stay hydrated
"Dehydration is widespread - in fact, many of my patients do not even realize that they are dehydrated chronic," says Nader. "I always remind my patients to drink more water, even before being thirsty. If it becomes a continuous question, the lack of water and dehydration can lead to serious complications, such as urinary problems and kidneys, Heat-related diseases and convulsions. "
RX: "While water is a great way to go and stay hydrated, there are alternatives for people who have trouble drinking enough water or getting bored with taste," says Nader. "Many vegetables, such as celery, tomatoes, cucumbers and broccoli, offer a unique alternative to water. And all fruits, especially grapefruits, watermelon, strawberries and oranges, have a high content in water and constitute an excellent source of vitamins and fiber, too. homemade fruit smoothies, coconut water and fruit-infused water like lemon and strawberries are also in great ways to spice up your liquid consumption for the day. "
Eat a well-balanced breakfast
"Breakfast is really one of the most important meals of the day," says Nader. "Not only can this help control the weight, but it also helps you get the important vitamins and minerals you need in a day.
RX:"I'm trying to plan as much as I can the night before," she says. "There are so many different recipes for night oats, for example, that you can prepare in advance, so that everything you have to do is get it out of the refrigerator the next morning. Associate that, With fruit, is a first step in a good breakfast routine. If you are a morning person, try to wake up a little earlier and start simple. Opt for eggs rich in protein and twin with a piece of toast with whole grains and fruits. "
Loneliness is seriously unhealthy
"Loneliness is the main epidemic of people Péphames over 50 in America today," said Prakash S. Masand, MD, CEO of theCenters of Psychiatric Excellence (COPE). "Health care providers and family members are often missed, but its consequences can be considerable and even tragic."
RX:"Feel alone and be alone to make real toll on the brain and on your overall health," designs Salz. "You really need to connect with others and have some relationships that feed you and do not feed you, it's not something not to let continue. Do what you need to do to keep some people of your life to worry, to connect with, invest in. "
Have a good relationship with your doctors
"Take advantage of your relationship with your doctors," said Angela U. Tucker, MD, family medicine doctor with the Ohio State Wexner Medical Medical Center. "Be organized when you go to your appointments with exactly what are your concerns and what symptoms have occurred since the beginning of the problem. If you feel that your health service providers do not listen to you and you have your interest in the Spirit, find someone who will do it. Your life can depend on that. "
Continue your best quality of life, not just what you can live with
"Medicine has changed a lot over the last 20 years, in terms of paying attention to improving the quality of life," says Ariel B. Grobman, MD, an otolaryngologist certified by the board withSouth Florida Ent Associates. "In the past, people were encouraged to seek treatment and intervention when things were really bad. In my work, having a deaf ear has already been perceived as" not so big of the affair "- after all, You have a second good ear. Nowadays, we strive to improve the lives of patients in restaurants as normal as possible. "
RX: "Everyone has the right to live his best life," says Grobman. Give priority to your mental and physical health, talk openly with your symptom doctor and do not suffer from silence.
Get your kids this vaccine
"Have your children vaccinated against the HPV virus," says Eam McLaughlin, MD, an otolaryngologist withLarger miami. "It prevents cervical, anal and oropharyngeal cancer."
RX: According to current guidelines, boys and girls should be vaccinated against HPV at 11 or 12 years (and up to 26 years old for men and men are not vaccinated earlier).
Get your audience tested
"I also suggest to moms of all ages not to avoid testing their hearing because of the stigma of hearing aids," says McLaughlin. "There are so many discreet choices today and left untreated hearing loss can lead to social insulation, cognitive decline and dementia."
Ever have a basic tan
For years, people had a "basic tan" before vacation, thinking that it would prevent sunburn and skin cancer. "It's a horrible idea and promotes your risk of getting skin cancer," saysRichard Torbeck, MD, a dermatologist certified by the board with an advanced dermatology PC in New York. "Intermittent sunburn are directly related to the risk of skin cancer."
RX: The Skin Care Foundation recommends applying a sunscreen that is at least 15 SPF, which will protect you against the UVB rays potentially caused by cancer.
Do not ignore this symptom of the skin
"A common indifferent skin sign is a mole that darkens or changes color," Torbeck declares. "Every time there is a mole that changes size, shape, color, itching or bleeding, I recommend a biopsy. Do not give up having examined it."
Avoid these "natural" cutaneous products
"Do not use tea tree oil, witch hazelnut, apple cider vinegar or pink hip oils to treat acne or imperfections," Torbeck declares. "These domestic or natural remedies have very low data behind them. They are more likely to inflame the skin than to help it."
Do not use topical steroids too often
Your primary care doctor or dermatologist may have prescribed a topical steroid cream for a skin rash or imperfections, but if they are not distinguished relatively quickly, another action plan is needed to prevent skin damage. "People's skin can develop addictive to topical steroids," Torbeck declares. "A rash that never really resolves that can be slightly improved with steroids may be rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis or steroid contact dermatitis (which is rare)."
RX: "If a rash does not improve with a steroid after two to three weeks on the body and one to two weeks on the face, it is prudent to see a dermatologist for a biopsy," Torbeck declares.
You really need this vaccine
"My family and friends ask if they really need this influenza, because they never had the front influenza," said JD Zipkin, MD, Northwell Health-GoHealth Associate Medical Director Urgent Care in New YORK. "The problem is that the majority of hospitalized people could have said the same thing in advance. Yes, you need this vaccine. The vaccines are like seat belts: do not wait for something bad Before starting to use them! "
RX: Get an influenza shot each year and ask your doctor from other vaccines that they could recommend, including those against pneumonia and shingles.
Realize this on your diet
"We are what we eat," says Ronald Schuster, MD, aCertified plasticized surgeon of the Council in Baltimore, Maryland. "As we all get older, it's even more important to eat well stay well. FADS come and go, but food can really be medicine. I emphasize clean and durable sources of protein such as fat fish, poultry, grease, beans, nuts and seeds. Your plate should be full of vegetables, especially dark leaves, tomatoes, lawyers and vegetables such as broccoli, carrots and Brussels sprouts. Mix some fruits such as bays in your salad to add flavor and a powerful stroke of antioxidants. "
RX: "Avoid stacking food on your plate and end-of-evening ginges before falling asleep," says Schuster. "Find healthy foods you love and make a regular part of your diet and join a healthy food community to support you. Check out new online community recipes to find out how to add spices and flavors to these healthy foods while having a good support system. "
Avoid processed foods
"Similarly, if not more important than what you eat is whatnot To eat, "says Schuster." Avoid all processed foods (when possible) will go a long way to keep you healthy. Processed foods are filled with preservatives, artificial chemicals, sugar, sodium and Empty calories that your body simply does not require and / or know how to digest, which causes inflammation. Inflammation is the fundamental cause of chronic disease. "
RX: Aim to eat as many entire dishes as possible, focusing on fruits and vegetables.
Know how to avoid the "Residual Risk" of Cardiac Disease
If you take statins to reduce your cholesterol, you should always be vigilant about cardiac health. "Many doctors do not appear enough that statins are often only the beginning, not the end, preventive care of heart disease," says Robert Busch, MD, an endocrinologist at the Albany Medical Center working on theClinical trial of cardiovascular risk reduction. "Patients who have obtained their cholesterol managed with statins are usually always at risk of having a cardiovascular event, including a heart attack or cerebral stroke."
RX: "I encourage these patients to consult their doctors because, beyond the treatment of the statin, because other beneficial cardiovascular treatments that can be added to their regimes to further reduce their residual risks," says Busch.
See your doctor at least each year
"Follow the guidelines," says Janas. "The annual laboratories, frequently checking the skin, aspirin at 40, mammography at 45, colonoscopy and prostate tests at 50, etc. Vaccinate. Do not read blogs against that. The importance of seeing a doctor once a An can not be overestimated. "
RX: "Despite his doctor, I still see my primary care doctor once a year and do a complete blood job," he adds.
Activate the night night on your iPhone and wear blocker glasses from blue light
"The blue light of our screens can interfere with our circadian rhythms and disrupt our sleep," says Youn. "Take these two steps can be very useful for giving you a good night's rest."
RX: In addition to allowing blue-light gearbox applications and your computer, move away from the screens at least an hour before going to bed.
Do not forget the fiber
"Fiber can often be forgotten in the daily diet, but it is essential in healthy nutrition," said Kim Yu, MD, family doctor at the Mission Viejo, California. "Do not eat enough fiber (via fruits and vegetables) may result in constipation, reduce intestinal transit and increase the risk of colon cancer."
RX: Visit five to seven portions of fruits and vegetables daily. Other high fiber foods include whole grains, nuts, seeds and oatmeal.
To be suspicious of herbal supplements and medicines
"Many daily supplements and herbal medicines do not need to get the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval before putting their products on the market," said Latata Perkins, MD, doctor in Washington, DC
RX: "It's important to talk with your doctor about potential benefits and side effects, especially if you take other medications, I have chronic health problems, are pregnant or nourishing," she says.
You do not need shower
"Women often believe you need to have a healthy vagina," said Anita Ravi, MD, family doctor in New York. "It is counterproductive because the shower can increase the risk of infections such as yeast and bacterial vaginosis. The vagina is self-cleaning and the discharge can be normal."
Carve time for self-reflection
"One of the most valuable habits that people can build in their day consists of putting aside time to think regularly," said Jay W. Lee, MD, family doctor in Huntington Beach, California. "Many adults are overloaded and feel overwhelmed, which can lead to a risk of depression and anxiety."
RX: "It is important to meditate and practice every day of stress reduction and resilience techniques," says Lee. "The practice makes (closer to) perfect."And to cross this pandemic with your healthiest, do not miss these35 places you are most likely to catch Covid.