WMBFNews.com | Myrtle Beach/Florence, SC | News, Weather, SportsNews - Health

FDA looks to curb abuse of cough medicine

Federal health regulators are weighing restrictions on Robitussin, NyQuil and other cough suppressants to curb cases of abuse that send thousands of people to the hospital each year.

Tai chi eases fibromyalgia symptoms, study finds

By MARILYNN MARCHIONE AP Medical Writer Tai chi eased painful joints and other symptoms of fibromyalgia in a small but well-done study of this ancient Chinese form of exercise.

FDA clot device advisory tells of patients' risks

Medical filters that stop blood clots from reaching the lungs can move or break and cause life-threatening problems for patients, the government and a medical journal report said Monday.

Docs told to avoid 1 flu shot brand for small kids

A government panel is recommending doctors steer clear of giving one brand of flu vaccine to young children this year because of convulsions and fever in kids who got the shot in Australia and New Zealand.

Study: Critical illness awareness influenced by race

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A new study from the Medical University of South Carolina suggests illness perceptions among critically ill patients and surrogates are influenced by factors including race, faith, and quality of life.

Microneedles may make getting flu shots easier

One day your annual flu shot could come in the mail.

AIDS breakthrough: Gel helps prevent infection

By MARILYNN MARCHIONE AP Medical Writer For the first time, a vaginal gel has proved capable of blocking the AIDS virus: It cut in half a woman's chances of getting HIV from an infected partner in a study in...

Surfside Beach July 4th fireworks called a success by officials

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Officials at Monday's Surfside Beach town council meeting said turnout for the July 4th fireworks display was good.

Could your weight be blamed on a virus?

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What if you could blame your weight gain on a virus?  You may be able to pass the buck if some new reasearch proves true.

FDA: Pfizer will pull ineffective leukemia drug

Federal health regulators said Monday that the drugmaker Pfizer has agreed to pull a leukemia drug off the market after a follow-up study showed it failed to slow the disease.

Tiny pump used as an alternative to open-heart surgery

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A new, small device is helping heart patients in the Midlands. It's called the Impella 2.5 and it's the only option for some.

Mind over matter weight loss

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Becky Riley is direct and honest, sometimes brutally honest when it comes to food.

Formula for keeping your brain in shape

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As we age, our chances of being afflicted with dementia go up dramatically and it can creep up on you.

Prescription drug abuse common and deadly

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Take a look in your medicine cabinet tonight. What kind of old prescription drugs do you have just lying around the house?

Study: 10 minutes of exercise, hour-long effects

Ten minutes of brisk exercise triggers metabolic changes that last at least an hour. The unfair news for panting newbies: The more fit you are, the more benefits you just might be getting.

Have osteoporosis? Pay attention to diet and exercise

Attention to diet and exercise are still important even after you are diagnosed with osteoporosis. Get the latest recommendations here.

Food allergies and hidden allergens

If you have food allergies, watch out for "hidden allergens."

Study shows tanning beds lead to cancer

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Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of bathing suit season, and for many, the thought of baring skin that hasn't seen the sun since last fall is simply unbearable. They're flocking to tanning salons.

As autism websites boom, experts urge caution

When Connie Anderson's son was diagnosed with autism a decade ago, she scoured the Internet looking for treatments.

Sunscreen may not protect you

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As many Americans get ready to hit the beach or pool this weekend, experts from the Environmental Working Group say there's a good chance your sunscreen won't protect you from the sun's harmful rays.

Sunscreen facts you need to know

You think you know how to use sunscreen -- so why do you still get the occasional burn? Sharpen your sunscreen IQ and stay skin-safe this summer with these tips.

Breast cancer: dispelling the myths

Breast cancer myths make it hard to know what to believe. Learn the facts, then forget the rest. Your health may depend on it.

New trend sees teens getting high -- on sound Video included

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A new trend is emerging on the internet that has the attention of teens in various parts of the country, but it's flying under the radars of most adults. Teens are trying to get high using nothing but sound.

Report aims at reducing salt intake

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The Institute of Medicine is urging the Federal Drug Administration to set limits on how much salt manufacturers can put in the foods we eat.

Study: Pesticide linked to ADHD

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You give your kids fruits and veggies because they're healthy, right?  A new study suggests some of those things may contribute to ADHD.

New bizarrely named heart surgery is a proven life-saver

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Walter Vives is lucky to be alive. He had two ticking time bombs inside of him.

Don't fall prey to these 5 common diet pitfalls

Determined to lose weight? Check out these common dieting pitfalls before you embark on your next weight loss plan.

How to identify skin cancer scares

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The American Academy of Dermatology estimates at least 1 million people in the U.S. develop skin cancer every year, but would you even know what to look for when it comes to your skin?

Doctors discuss a painful condition known as "suicide disease"

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For three years, Sarah Woolley lived with severe pain. With four kids under the age of eight, Sarah felt helpless as the pain took more of her life away.

Myrtle Beach yoga festival offers talks, classes and more

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A number of area yoga pros are organizing a yoga festival this summer in Myrtle Beach.

Brain physical keeping check on health

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How would you like to be more productive? Some people are taking enormous mental leaps just by getting their brain power checked, and it's really paying off.

How “The Pill” changed America

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There are tons of pills on the market, but only one is so commonly used in this country that it's known simply as "The Pill."

Presidential cancer advisors give their latest findings

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Americans are exposed to thousands of cancer-causing agents in the environment every day and not enough is being done to stop it.  At least that's what presidential cancer advisors said Thursday.

Are you getting enough Vitamin D?

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Are you getting enough vitamin D? New research says you're probably not.

Study: Growth hormone can aid athletic performance

Researchers are reporting the first scientific evidence that a hormone banned in sports can boost athletic performance.

FDA's new findings in children's medicine recall

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The FDA said bacteria-ridden materials were used to make kids medicines involved in a recent recall.  But testing shows no signs of contamination.

Oncologist says new research shows evidence of afterlife

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People talk about their near death experiences and what they saw.  Some say it's divine, others have a scientific explanation.

Study: Stomach cancer up in young, white adults

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Scientists are puzzling over a surprising increase in stomach cancer in young white adults. Rates in all other American adults have declined.

FDA investigating recall of children's medicine

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The Food and Drug Administration says it is investigating after a health-care company recalled more than 40 over-the-counter infant's and children's liquid medications.

Massage could help allergy sufferers

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As the warm weather arrives, so does the pollen.  Plenty of folks are suffering right now.  While there's medication to prevent the symptoms, nothing foolproof.  That's why some folks swear by an alternative form of relief.

FDA approves new vaccine for prostate cancer

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The fight against cancer just got a new weapon.  The FDA has approved a vaccine for prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer vaccine may get FDA approval Video included

The anticipated approval this week of a therapeutic prostate cancer vaccine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration could be a milestone against the disease and cancer in general, experts say.

Researcher finds antioxidants in maple syrup

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A Rhode Island researcher has found more than two dozen compounds in maple syrup that promote good health.

Pregnant women need exercise

Many pregnant women may be missing out on a simple self-help activity that can improve their health.

VA hospital celebrating milestone

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A cardiology center celebrated its first anniversary and 500th patient at the Dorn VA Medical Center in Columbia Friday.

Best cooking methods for heartburn sufferers Video included

Combat heartburn with low-fat cooking methods -- they're quick, easy, tasty and healthy. Learn more!

Exercises you can do in the park

Try these simple exercises you can do on any park bench, with the help of exercise physiologist Colleen Saringer.

Easy exercises you can do at home Video included

Feel like you never have time to exercise? Not anymore! Check out this easy routine you can do in short spurts throughout the day, at home and while doing other things. It takes multitasking to a whole new level.

Unlit cigarettes still a health hazard

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For years, health organizations have cited the health risks associated with cigarettes and second-hand smoke, but did you know that cigarettes can still be dangerous even when there's no smoke?

Magnetic spa tubs promise a safe pedicure

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We've all heard the reports about the possible dangers of pedicures stemming from the unsanitary conditions of those popular jetted tubs, but now there may be a safer alternative.

Study: Flu drugs saved many pregnant swine flu victims

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The most complete analysis of swine flu deaths among pregnant women last year indicates that quick treatment with Tamiflu or a similar medicine saved the lives of many.

Keeping a headache diary

Record details about your headaches in a diary to pinpoint headache triggers and help your doctor make a diagnosis. Here's how to keep your headache diary.

Debunking myths about eating disorders

Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder are a widespread problem in the U.S. Get the facts about these common psychiatric problems.

Herpes virus used to treat cancer

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A medical breakthrough in the fight against one form of cancer. Right now there's a clinical trial going on in Virginia that uses a virus to fight a deadly form of skin cancer.

Lack of health coverage leaves some thinking twice about treatment

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Millions of Americans are living without health insurance, and many often forego routine medical care because they can't afford the out-of-pocket costs.

Simple carbs pose heart risk for women

A diet rich in carbohydrates that are quickly transformed into sugar in the blood raises the risk of heart disease for women, a new Italian study finds.

Incisionless procedure for acid reflux

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Acid reflux affects nearly 60 million Americans, but a new incisionless procedure is offing patients instant relief.

Junk food 'addiction' may be real

Obese people often say they'd like to eat less but feel almost powerless to stop indulging, and now new research suggests that explanation might be all too true.

Flu vaccine may lead to another strain

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A new study raises the question could the seasonal flu vaccine have increased the risk for getting H1N1?

Fruits and veggies may not fight cancer

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For years we've been told eating a diet with lots of fruits and veggies can help protect against cancer, but a new study shows that may not be true.

Study links low birth rates to U.S. recession

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An analysis of state fertility and economic data is showing a strong connection to low birth rates and the state of the U.S. economy, the Pew Research Center announced Tuesday.

Study finds life-saving benefits to breastfeeding

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You've heard for years that breast-feeding is good for babies, but did you know it can also save lives and billions of dollars?

Marathon runner saved by cop after heart attack on course

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A 21-year-old University of Southern California student who suffered a cardiac arrest in mile 18 of the Los Angeles Marathon is on the road to recovery.

People who use infrared saunas say they alleviate health problems

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New infrared sauna use invisible light, rather than steam, to heat the people who use them.  Some claim it's better than the original and even alleviates health problems, but some professionals aren't so sure.

Southeast sees a swine flu surge

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While swine flu has been off the radar for many Americans, doctors have continued to see a steady number of H1N1 patients.

New developments for well-known drugs

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There's new developments for two well known drugs that may be in your medicine cabinet.

FDA discusses risks of menthol cigarettes

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FDA advisors are discussing menthol cigarettes and what risks are linked to the mint-flavored smokes.

Man's best friend helps mend broken hearts Video included

Some recovering heart patients are getting a new "leash" on life as they gain strength by walking dogs housed at a local shelter.

Scientists identify more breast cancer genes Video included

MONDAY, March 30 (HealthDay News) -- U.S. researchers say they've spotted new gene variations that could boost the risk of sporadic breast cancer.

EPA warns of BPA concerns

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The Environmental Protection Agency has added BPA, a compound in many household products, to its list of "chemicals of concern."

Easter chocolate can be good for you

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If you're expecting a visit from the Easter bunny, you don't have to completely shy away from what he leaves behind.

American diets full of sodium, but most don't know it

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On just about any kitchen or restaurant table in America lives the salt shaker, but it is the hidden salt that experts say is the real problem.

Is dark chocolate good for you?

Is dark chocolate just an indulgence -- or actually good for you? Dr. Bruce Dan looks at the surprising health benefits of this delicious treat.

Dirty shower water polluting waterways

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That refreshing morning shower may get you clean, but it could be polluting the water you use every day.

Study: Pregnancy safe for breast cancer survivors

Women who survive breast cancer and have children afterwards don't appear to be at any higher risk of dying from cancer, a new study says.

Up to a third of breast cancers could be avoided

Up to a third of breast cancer cases in Western countries could be avoided if women ate less and exercised more, researchers at a conference said Thursday, renewing a sensitive debate about how lifestyle factors affect the...

FDA panel mulls tanning bed ban for teens under 18

Federal health experts say more restrictions are needed to protect teenagers from the cancer risks of tanning beds, including a potential ban for people under 18.

Colon cancer awareness takes center stage in March

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This colon cancer awareness month, a familiar face around WMBF News is taking prevention very seriously.

Older women need 1-hour workouts to fend off flab

Rev up the treadmill: Sobering new research spells out just how much exercise women need to keep the flab off as they age - and it's a lot.

Doctors warn of earlier start to allergy season

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Because South Carolina has had such a wet winter, doctors predict the state could have a very active allergy season.

Cancer expected to overtake heart disease as No. 1 killer

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Cancer is expected to overtake heart disease this year as the No. 1 reason people die in this country.

Newer genetic info adds little to predicting breast cancer

If you're a woman curious about your risk of breast cancer, some simple facts may be as helpful as cutting edge genetic information.

Drive-thru diet exposed

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In a world of fast food choices, Taco Bell claims its new drive-thru diet menu.  Is the choice du jour for those looking to lose weight without giving up that fast food fix?

Youth baseball injuries becoming more common

In the coming weeks, millions of American children will dust off their bats and gloves and head out to the baseball field.

Baby sling safety

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Baby slings are a must have for new moms. They are comfy and cozy, but can they harm your baby?

Concussions on the rise in college hoops

Diving for a loose ball during a summer pickup game, North Carolina center Tyler Zeller knocked heads with another player. It left him with a headache, nothing he was too worried about.

Alzheimer's 'epidemic' hitting minorities hardest

Over 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, and blacks and Hispanics are at highest risk of developing the disease, a new report finds.

Generic or name brand?

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We wanted to answer the endless argument: Are you sacrificing quality just to save a couple bucks?

Survivor recognizes benefit of Reach to Recovery program

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When Dr. Carol Adams learned she had breast cancer, she faced a myriad of questions and emotions despite her background as a psychologist on staff at McLeod Family Medicine.

Docs leave foot-long instrument in woman's abdomen

It took five long months for a Czech woman to discover the reason for her pain: Doctors had left a foot-long medical tool inside her abdomen. This month, doctors at a clinic in the southeastern town of Ivancice discovered...

FDA aims to rein in radiation-based medical scans

Federal regulators will require manufacturers of high-grade medical imaging machines to include safety controls that prevent patients from receiving excessive radiation doses.

Smokers with cancer could quit and double survival

People with early lung cancer who quit smoking could double their chances of surviving, a new study says.

Study finds US birth weights inch down a bit

U.S. newborns are arriving a little smaller, says puzzling new Harvard research that can't explain why.

Migraines linked to depression?

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Migraine headaches and depression may share a strong genetic component.

Study: Kidney angioplasty brings risks, no benefit

If you're among the hundreds of thousands of Americans with clogged kidney arteries, you might want to consider trying medicines before rushing into angioplasty to open them up. The pricey procedure is no more effective and...

Old method of heart bypass better than 'off-pump'

It seemed like a great idea - doing bypass surgery while the heart is still beating, sparing patients the complications that can come from going on a heart-lung machine. Now the first big test of this method has produced a...

Studies: Some nursing home elderly get futile care

A surprising number of frail, elderly Americans in nursing homes are suffering from futile care at the end of their lives, two new federally funded studies reveal.

Most babies born this century will live to 100

Most babies born in rich countries this century will eventually make it to their 100th birthday, new research says. Danish experts say that since the 20th century, people in developed countries are living about three decades...

Nasal spray flu vaccine becoming available Video included

The long-awaited first vaccinations against swine flu - the squirt-in-the-nose kind - begin early next week in parts of the country, and states are urging people to be patient until more arrives.

Double hand transplant patient out of hospital

The mother of the nation's first double hand transplant patient says he's out of the hospital and looking forward to returning to his wife and daughter in Georgia.

9 in 10 high schoolers short on fruits, veggies

Less than 10 percent of U.S. high school students are eating the combined recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables, a finding that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention called "poor" in a report...

Flu, swine flu raise risk factor with young patients

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In a month's time, three children in the Midlands have died of complications related to swine flu.

Study: Flu viruses can spark heart attacks

Heart patients who catch the flu may have more to worry about than just a fever or the sniffles: the virus could also spark a heart attack, new research shows.

FDA approves new HIV test from Abbott Laboratories

The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new test from Abbott Laboratories that detects both types of the virus that causes AIDS.

Studies: Swine flu spreads long after fever stops

When the coughing stops is probably a better sign of when a swine flu patient is no longer contagious, experts said after seeing new research that suggests the virus can still spread many days after a fever goes away.

DHEC: Prepare, don't panic about H1N1 flu

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Cases of H1N1 are hitting school districts in the state. Is it time to panic? Health officials say no, but it is time to take precautions.

Calling all volunteers to test swine flu shots

WASHINGTON (AP) — The race is on: The government and vaccine makers are seeking thousands of volunteers, from babies to the elderly, to roll up their sleeves for the first swine flu shots — to test whether a new vaccine...

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Heather Bauer is an RD specializing in the interrelation between eating habits, metabolism, and lifestyle.

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