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When should you get a mammogram?

WASHINGTON — Deciding when to get routine mammograms is confusing. Some health groups recommend women begin at age 40 or 45 while another recently opted for age 50. They also differ on whether yearly or every other year is best. The conflicting advice is at least partly because guidelines ...

How seasonal allergies can trigger asthma attacks

For many, spring is the season of renewal and new beginnings. But it’s also the season when trees and plants start to bloom and pollen hangs in the air. Instead of feeling refreshed and reinvigorated, some brace for the return of seasonal allergies. Sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, ...

Don’t let boyfriend’s vaping vice be a deal breaker

DEAR ANNIE: My dad died of lung cancer a few years ago, and because of that, I abhor smoking in all its forms. The problem is I just discovered my boyfriend, who is a nurse, has been secretly vaping behind my back. I was shocked and upset not so much that he did it (which is bad enough) but that he went through great pains to hide it from me. Plus, he works in the medical field and should know better! He promised to discontinue when I confronted him and that he did it only because of the immense pressure he is under. Recently, I found newly bought vaping pens in his apartment. The ...

TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH: Chewing tobacco dangers are many

DEAR DR. ROACH: My husband has neuropathy in his feet. He is otherwise healthy, exercises daily, maintains his weigh, and eats healthy. My concern is that he uses chewing tobacco. He insists that it doesn’t have a negative influence on his condition, but I disagree. What’s your medical opinion? He is fully aware of other health complications that chewing tobacco can cause, but he doesn’t make an effort to quit. I’m frustrated and worried about his future. He is 63. — A.C.W. ANSWER: There are many causes of neuropathy. Diabetes is a major one, but I get many letters from ...

HINTS FROM HELOISE: Remove pet hair with ease

DEAR HELOISE: Pet hair embeds itself deep into fabric fibers, making the removal of it especially difficult. Before you go straight to the washer, tumble furry items in the dryer on air-only (no heat) for about 10 minutes with a dryer sheet. The dryer loosens fur and static, and most of it collects in the lint trap. Then wash as usual. You’ll notice a significant difference. After washing, a slightly damp rubber glove that gets wiped over the clothing lifts any lingering hair effortlessly. Keep a lint roller by the door for a quick check before you leave. If your pet has a favorite ...