» "Interval training - Less time, faster results "

Interval training may motivate people who claim lack of time followed by lack of results as the biggest reasons they don't exercise.

» "Man up, get a checkup "

"Many men would rather take their car in for a tune-up than go in for their own health checkup. Studies show men tend to put off going to the doctor. On average, they live sicker and die younger than women, who make twice as many preventive care "

» "Start with the ""tried and true"" "

"One of the fundamental principles taught in medical school is ""first, do no harm."" In practice, this is not as straightforward as it sounds. Physicians regularly receive ""educational"" materials, ""free"" samples, and ""consulting"" opportunities. "

» "Stroke - Know the symptoms, act immediately "

Getting medical attention as quickly as possible saves brain tissue and decreases the risk of long-term damage for people who suffer a stroke.

» 3 simple questions for better health care

Asking the following questions whenever you see or talk to your doctor or health-care provider can improve the outcome and your overall satisfaction.

» 7 easy lifestyle changes that can reduce headaches

Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can trigger headaches. Eat regular meals. Low blood sugar can trigger a headache. Include protein and healthy carbs like fruits and vegetables or whole grains in every meal or snack.

» A pain in the behind

"If you're between 30 and 50 and have pain or tingling down one or both legs, sciatica is a likely culprit. Sciatica is caused by pressure or damage to the sciatic nerve running from the spine down the back of each leg. "

» Advance directives - Making your health-care wishes known

"Whether you're 18 or 80, it's important to think about what kind of health-care treatment you want if you become ill and cannot make decisions for yourself. Advance directives allow you to put your wishes in writing before a crisis. "

» Are you a smart health-care consumer?

"Most people understand that health-care costs are continuing to rise and that something must be done to curb the expense, but what specifically are you doing to fight the problem? "

» Are you spending too much on prescription medications?

"People often equate price with quality, believing that a higher price gets you a superior product. In the case of prescription drugs, however, that belief could be leading you to spend more money than necessary. "

» Autism awareness

"Parents should talk to their pediatrician if a baby shows these potential signs of autism within the first two years of life: No babbling, pointing, or other gestures by 12 months. "

» Be a guardian angel for seniors who live alone UPDATED!

"Difficulty cooking or shopping, trouble chewing, lack of appetite, and depression are some of the reasons elderly folks who live on their own don't eat well. In fact, one of four suffers from malnutrition. "

» Be an office visit buddy

"I appreciate it when a patient brings a companion to their routine doctor visit -- a spouse, adult child, another relative, or a friend. "

» Blood cholesterol - Making sense of your numbers

"A healthy cholesterol profile can reduce your risk for heart disease. All adults should talk to their doctors about when and how often to get their blood cholesterol screened, given their age, sex, and health history. "

» Blood pressure - There's no place like home

"Taking your blood pressure at home can help your doctor get a more accurate picture of your true blood pressure over time. Some people have ""white coat hypertension."" Their blood pressure goes up in the doctor's office because of nervousness. "

» Breathe easier when asthma strikes

"Keeping a written log of the severity of your daily asthma symptoms, as well as activities and environmental factors that trigger attacks, may help you and your doctor get better control of your condition. "

» Cancer myths - Misinformation can lead you astray

"Few people are aware of the cancer risks linked to being overweight, but a surprisingly high number believe that underarm deodorants and underwire bras cause breast cancer. "

» Check out your doctor

"If you want to learn more about a doctor, these Internet sites provide free information. "

» Cholesterol and early heart attacks

People with a family history of extremely high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) have an inherited gene that causes cholesterol to build up in their blood vessels.

» Chronic pain

One study in a community clinic found more than one in three adult appointments involved patients with chronic pain. Treating chronic pain can be frustrating for patients and physicians for several reasons.

» Clinical trials

"One way to be more proactive about your health care is to learn about clinical trials. In addition to new treatments, there are trials that research prevention, diagnostic, and screening methods. "

» Colorectal cancer

"All adults should talk to their doctors about colorectal cancer screening. Regular screening is recommended for everyone age 50 or older, but people who are at higher-than-average risk may need earlier screening. "

» Common sports injuries - Doing too much too soon can lead to stress fractures

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the lower legs and feet that can occur from overuse or a rapid increase in activity level. To help prevent them: Start gradually. Increase your intensity by no more than 10% each week.

» Compiling a family health history

You can find free help on how to collect and organize your family health history at...

» Controlling chronic pain

"Pain can occur for any number of reasons or from many conditions. If pain continues with little or no relief, it can affect you physically and emotionally. "

» Coping with big medical bills

Illness and big medical bills increase the risk of financial trouble and account for half of all personal bankruptcies. What can your do to cope with these big bills? 1. Check you bills for errors.

» Cutting costs without cutting corners

Most doctors are trained to make patient-care recommendations without regard for cost. This can be a problem. Such was the case for one physician's patient who returned for his next visit without having gotten tests and medications the doctor ordered

» Cyberchondriac

"For years a woman has heard about illnesses from friends or on TV, becoming convinced she has every disease and disorder imaginable. Now she has taken her health anxiety (hypochondria) to the Web, and her worries have grown exponentially. "

» Dash to lower blood pressure

Controlling your blood pressure through diet and exercise is one of the best things you can do to protect your heart. The DASH Diet (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension) is an eating plan that can help lower blood pressure.

» Depression

"If you have a close relative who suffered from depression, you could be at higher risk for developing depression. These lifestyle steps can reduce your risk of actually developing depression. "

» Do you have a healing relationship with your doctor?

"What does it take from a doctor to create a healing relationship with his or her patients? In a recent study, a group of 50 physicians and non-MD practitioners were interviewed about what things they do to build and maintain healing relationships "

» Doc-in-a-box surprise!

"If you've received health care at a walk-in clinic at a retail location (sometimes referred to as ""Doc-in-a-box"") you may have been surprised when you were treated by a nurse practitioner or physician assistant instead of a doctor. "

» Doctor is a nag (with the best of intentions)

"The standard of care for many common conditions -- high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, osteoarthritis -- calls for a trial of ""lifestyle therapy"" before turning to medications. "

» Doctors' pet peeves

"A good doctor-patient relationship is important to good health care. As you prepare for a health exam, be determined to be a good patient -- to avoid behaviors that can be pet peeves for doctors. "

» Doctor's visits - How to make the most of your time

"1. Make sure the receptionist schedules enough time for your appointment. If you need to talk over something at length with your doctor, let the receptionist know. "

» Donate life

One person's decision to donate organs and tissue can save or improve the lives of up to 50 people.

» Don't be fooled

"If you have a red spot on the surface of your skin that develops and spreads quickly and is sore or has a pinching sensation, have it evaluated by a doctor. "

» Don't be shy

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about the directions for taking a prescription medication.

» Don't get sick on medical debt

"As health-care costs continue to rise, more people may find themselves facing financial headaches from medical debt. "

» Don't get stung

"Bright-colored, loose clothing can attract and trap bees and wasps. Perfume and heavily scented cosmetics do, too. Avoid swinging at a bee or wasp that flies near you. "

» Don't second guess yourself on second opinions

"A cardiologist recommended a man, with occasional chest pain, have a non-urgent coronary angiography (dye injected into the heart arteries using a small tube inserted at the groin). The man wanted a second opinion, but didn't want to insult him. "

» Don't sweat it

"When you exercise, you sweat. It's a given. Don't let the idea of sweating be an excuse not to get moving. Sweating means your body is burning calories (working hard). Sweating is the body's way of keeping cool. "

» Fill prescriptions without emptying your wallet

"We trust our doctors to recommend the right medications, when needed, and then worry about paying for them after leaving the doctor's office. The reality is that we're paying more and more out of our own pockets. "

» Flu shots - Save misery and money

"Before flu season hits is the best time to get your flu shot, although you can get it later if you are exposed to an outbreak. "

» Get the facts about your medications

"Whenever you get a new prescription, ask your doctor or pharmacist these questions: 1. What are the brand and generic names? 2. Is a generic available? 3. What am I taking this medication for? "

» Give the gift of life

"The demand for organs, eyes, and tissue still greatly outnumbers donors. More than 100,000 people in the United States need life-saving transplants, and the number continues to grow. Every 10 minutes, another person is added to the waiting list. "

» Great health care without added costs

There are ways you can help to lower your expenses without sacrificing your health and well-being. Learn how to best use your health-care plan. Use emergency rooms for emergencies only. Request generic rather than brand-name drugs.

» Health care - How to lower your out-of-pocket costs

"If your insurance plan has a high deductible, tell your doctor and ask if there are any ways to save money. Ask ahead of time about the costs of tests. "

» Health-care decisions - Urgent care or emergency?

"In a life-threatening situation, a call to 911 or visit to an emergency room is always your best choice. "

» Honesty is the best policy

"Telling your doctor ""little white lies"" may lead to expensive diagnosis procedures, unneeded referrals to specialties, or a delayed diagnosis for a serious problem. Be honest about how much you smoke or drink. "

» Hospital visits

"Four out of every 10 hospital inpatients suffer physical injury from their medical care -- falls, medication errors, pressure ulcers, infections, missed treatments. "

» How to choose a family doctor

"Family doctors are trained in all areas of medicine and can treat most problems that people have through all stages of their life. When needed, they can also bring in a specialist you can trust. "

» How to choose the right hospital

Consumers can research and compare the quality of care at hospitals by going to www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov.

» How to make your health-care plan work for you

"Know your out-of-pocket expenses. How much of the premium will you pay? What types of preventive screenings (such as mammograms, diabetes screenings) are covered and how often? What about well-baby care, vision and dental coverage? "

» How to save on drug costs

Ask your doctor these questions: 1. Are there any lifestyle changes I could make that would make it possible for me not to take this medication? 2. Are there any over-the-counter medications I could use instead?

» How to stop prescription medication mistakes

1. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you already take. Bring a list with you to your visit.

» How to work with your doctor on weight control

"Dr. Tom (not his real name), a committed family doctor, recently seemed a little discouraged. ""I've been hearing patient complaints,"" he said. ""They get angry when I bring up weight control. It makes me want to avoid the subject."" "

» Is it OK to delay?

"The talk in the doctors' dining room is that business is down and hospital beds lie empty, but the Intensive Care Unit is full. Patients are delaying care to avoid expense, but some who need care are waiting so long they become critical. "

» Just what the doctor ordered

"If you're like most patients, you don't do ""just what the doctor ordered."" More than half of all patients prescribed long-term medications do not take them as their doctor intended. "

» Kids & fevers - When to call your doctor UPDATED!

Infants under three months: fever of 100.4F or higher (rectal temperature) Three to six months: rectal temperature of 101F or higher or 99.5F for more than 24 hours.

» Know your past - Protect your future

People with a family history of cancer have the most to gain from lifestyle changes and screening tests to prevent cancer.

» Lifelong choices that can help prevent cancer

Avoid tobacco in all forms - including secondhand smoke. Get at least 30 minutes total of physical activity every day. Eat at least five servings a day of fruits and vegetables. Stay at a healthy weight.

» Look for the signs of melanoma in moles

"Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer, but it can be found early because of its distinctive appearance. See your doctor if you notice any of these signs in a mole. "

» Make drug-switching work for you

Take charge of your prescription drugs and you may avoid the risks and hassles of drug-benefit companies trying to switch your medications -- and you can save money in the process.

» Men's health screenings checklist

"Health experts recommend that men over 40 talk to their doctor about taking aspirin to prevent heart disease. Aspirin therapy may be prescribed earlier for smokers or men who have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. "

» Mental illness: A treatable condition

Mental health issues can be a challenge for physicians to recognize. Unfortunately there is no simple test to identify mental illness. Physicians generally rule out possible physical causes before focusing exclusively on mental illness.

» Noisy joints?

Snapping and popping of joints is actually fairly common. The sound is caused by air bubbles in the fluid that surrounds and lubricates joints as well as the snap of ligaments as they slide from one bony surface to another.

» Office visits

One way to help improve communication between you and your doctor is to write down a list of questions and bring two copies to your office visit.

» Organizing your personal health records

Online Personal Health Records (PHRs) store your data in a secure environment and allow you to access your information anywhere at any time with an Internet connection.

» Out-of-pocket costs

Get good health care without cutting corners. Tell your doctor if your insurance plan has a high deductible and ask if there are any ways to save money.

» Over-the-counter cold & flu relief

"Always read labels carefully, and avoid taking more than one medication containing cough suppressant, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage when taken in excess. "

» Pace yourself

"You want to make the most out of doctor appointments. After all, your health is important. Because doctor appointments tend to be short, consider taking the PACE method developed at Ohio State University and recommended by the American Heart Assoc. "

» Pace yourself - Know when to slow down

"If you're starting a walking program, don't push yourself too hard at the start. Slow down if you can't carry on a conversation or if it takes longer than five minutes for your pulse to slow down after a walk. "

» PACE Yourself -- Making the most out of a doctor's appointment

"Because doctor's appointments tend to be short, consider taking the PACE method developed at Ohio State University and recommended by the American Heart Association to ensure the time is as productive as possible. "

» Patient navigators

"A ""patient navigator"" can help you through a health issue, particularly a complex one. A patient navigator can provide information on what to expect from and how to cope with treatment. "

» Personalized prevention UPDATED!

"The truth is, not everyone needs an annual physical if they are feeling well. The preventive services you may need depend on your gender, age, family history, and lifestyle. "

» Physician heal thyself

"Yes, doctors get colds or -- as they say -- a viral upper respiratory infection or ""URI."" Many patients and physicians believe doctors shouldn't get sick. Yet, studies have found doctors are at higher risk of infection from their sick patients. "

» Picking a pediatrician

"Whether you're a first-time parent looking for a pediatrician, have moved and need a new doctor for your little ones, or are unhappy with your child's current healthcare provider, take time to find one who fits you and your children's needs. "

» Pill splitting

"Pill splitting may help you save money on prescriptions. If you take a daily medication, research your health plan's prescription coverage and talk to your doctor. "

» Playing doctor online can be bad for your health

"With a wealth of medical information now available on the Internet, self-diagnosis is becoming more common. "

» Preparing for surgery

"Before you have a planned surgery, you may want to ask your doctor if you can donate your own blood ahead of time in the event you need a blood transfusion. "

» Prescription checkup

"At least once a year, review your prescription medications and ask your doctor these questions: Are there any lifestyle changes I could make that might make it possible for me not to need this medication? "

» Prescription pointers - When generics aren't available

"If a generic drug isn't available for the medicine you're taking, ask your doctor if there is another drug in the same class that may work as well but is less expensive. "

» Prescription safety: asking the right questions

"When your doctor gives you a new prescription, ask her or him to write down what condition the medicine is for. This will help your pharmacist be sure it's filled correctly. "

» Prescriptions - Brown bag it to the doctor's office

"If you see more than one doctor, make sure that they all know what prescription and over-the-counter medications you're taking, including vitamin supplements. "

» Protect yourself from prescription drug abuse

"When used long term, your body can develop a tolerance to certain medications used to treat pain, anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. "

» Quality questions UPDATED!

"We Americans like to think we have the best health care in the world. But despite our spending more on health care than any other country, studies have found that too many of us, adults and children alike, don't receive recommended care. "

» Remember your vowels to stay healthy

"Think back to your first spelling lesson. Even though there are only five vowels out of 26 letters (six when you count Y), you can't spell any word without at least one vowel. "

» Rosacea

"More than 13 million people in the U.S. have rosacea, a chronic skin disease that starts with flushing or blushing of the face that lasts longer than normal. "

» Rx for health-care costs

One easy thing you can do to lower health-care costs is to follow doctors' orders when it comes to prescription medications. The misuse or non-use of prescription medications is estimated to add nearly $200 billion a year to the cost of medical care.

» Secrets to finding the right psychologist

A psychologist can help you when you're facing overwhelming feelings or serious illness. You want to talk with someone you trust and with whom you are comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings.

» Shopping for health care

"Just like everything else you pay for, quality matters in health care, even for routine conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. "

» Shoveling snow

"Get your doctor's OK to shovel snow if you are over 40, have a sedentary lifestyle, or if you have had a heart attack or have conditions that put you at high risk for heart disease. "

» Shyness or something more

"Shyness is common, but if it takes you a long time to overcome shyness around unfamiliar people and environments, it may be something more. Signs that it may be more: Avoiding desirable social interactions/activities. Feeling worthless/despondent. "

» Side effects

Being aware of possible side effects will help you know whether or not you need to call a doctor if you experience unusual symptoms after starting a new medication.

» Skin check - What to show your doctor

"Once a month, check your skin from head to toe and look for any changes that may be early signs of skin cancer. See a doctor if you find any of the following: Patches of scaly skin or oozing or bleeding from a bump or mole. "

» Slow and easy

"If you are looking for a gentle activity that offers health benefits, consider tai chi (pronounced tie chee). A Chinese martial art, tai chi uses slow, fluid movements based on energy that flows through the body. "

» Snoring is no laughing matter

"Window-rattling snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, a condition that increases your risk for high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. "

» Sorting out medical research

May you live in interesting times is a well-worn blessing and curse. It seems like every year new research comes out that contradicts old research.

» Staying regular

"Prevention is the best approach to constipation. Start with a diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables, unprocessed bran, and whole grains. "

» Staying strong

"Weight training can stem the muscle loss people experience with age, usually beginning in their forties for women and in their sixties for men. "

» Stress: The elephant in the exam room

"Sleep disturbances, stomach burning, high blood pressure, panic attacks, pain in the back, neck, or jaw -- so many health problems may be related to stress in our lives. "

» Superbugs or happy patients?

"Most patients with colds, flu, bronchitis, and middle ear infections do not need antibiotics. Yet, many patients who come in for these issues are not satisfied unless they receive a prescription for antibiotics. "

» Swab your cheek. Save a life.

"Every four minutes, someone in the United States is diagnosed with a blood cancer such as leukemia or lymphoma. Every 10 minutes, someone dies of a blood cancer. Often, the only chance a patient has to live is to receive a marrow transplant. "

» Take control of your life and death!

"Doctors' talking to patients about death is uncomfortable under any circumstances, but especially when a patient is dying. Yet, patients have a right to make decisions about their end-of-life care. "

» Take the sting out of bites

"A bee leaves behind a stinger and venom sac. Try to remove it quickly. Wasps don't leave stingers in the skin, which means they can sting more than once. Carefully wash the area with soap and water two to three times daily until the skin is healed. "

» Taking care of your kidneys

"Over-the-counter painkillers containing aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen can damage kidneys if taken in high doses over long periods of time. Talk to your doctor about ways to reduce or eliminate these medications if you use them regularly. "

» The activity pyramid - Build a strong foundation and work your way up UPDATED!

"If you live a sedentary life, start with just 10 minutes of activity three times a week. Gradually work your way up to 30 minutes, five days a week. "

» The gift of life UPDATED!

"There have been many advances in organ and tissue transplants -- including hearts, lungs, livers, kidneys, pancreas, intestines, and many other tissue types. "

» The heart of the matter - How a flu shot could save your life

"If you have a history of heart disease, a flu shot could do more than just keep you from feeling miserable for a week or two. "

» The pollen patrol - Breathe easier during spring allergy season UPDATED!

"Reduce the sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose of spring allergies caused by grass and tree pollen with these simple steps: Wash your hands frequently. Pollen is everywhere. "

» The scoop on COPD

"A cough that won't quit, a continual tight chest, whistling or wheezing when you breathe, and frequent shortness of breath altogether can be signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). "

» The sneak thief of sight

"Glaucoma is often called the ""Sneak Thief of Sight"" because it typically has no symptoms in its early stages. "

» Three most important things you can do to prevent cancer

1. Know your family health history. Learn everything you can about the health histories of all your close relatives and share it with your doctor.

» Time pressure

"What patient doesn't want more time in office visits with his or her doctor? Physicians struggle with this and cite ""time pressure"" as a significant source of their own dissatisfaction. "

» To half or half not

"Buying prescription and over-the-counter medications at double the dose and then splitting them in half can save money, but not all pills can be split. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to make sure a medication can be split safely and accurately. "

» Transitions - Which doctor is right for you

"Everyone's health needs and fit with a physician can change over time. If you have a daughter graduating from high school, for example, this may be a good time to transition from a pediatrician to a family practice or internal medicine doctor. "

» Travel safe

Summer travel can increase health risks. Here are some precautions to consider: Check your health insurance. Some plans don't cover care abroad or non-emergency care when traveling.

» Trust me!

"How much you trust your doctor can have a big impact on your health. Patients who trust their doctor are more likely to exercise, stop smoking, and use safe sex practices. "

» Type 2 diabetes - You can escape the epidemic

"Staying at a healthy weight, losing just 5 to 7% of your body weight if you're overweight, and getting 30 minutes of exercise every day can greatly reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. "

» Understanding medical language

"When you don't understand something your doctor or health-care provider tells you, don't be shy about asking questions. "

» What you should know about informed consent

"Before you agree to have any complex medical procedure, such as an invasive test or surgery, your doctor is required to get your informed consent. "

» When is an emergency really an emergency?

"Lights and sirens, emergency rooms. It's fast-paced, real-life drama. Lives hang in the balance. Maybe yours or your loved one's. "

» When to get tested for diabetes UPDATED!

A fasting blood glucose screening for type 2 diabetes is recommended for all adults at age 45.

» When your doctor recommends surgery...

"People who are involved with their medical care tend to be more satisfied with their results. If your doctor recommends surgery, be sure you know the answers to the following questions: What kind of surgery you must have. "

» Worried sick!

"Jane (not her real name) smokes, is overweight, and gets little exercise. Her main health concern is food ""allergies,"" even though her risk of dying from heart disease is more than 70 times higher. "

» You and your doctor: Making a good match

"A perfect doctor-patient match may be hard to find, but taking these steps can make it more likely that you and your doctor will work well together. "

» Your role in the doctor-patient partnership

1. Research your options and choose a personal physician with whom you feel comfortable before you're faced with a medical crisis. 2. Prepare for office visits.