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Strategies to manage and tame stress

METRO — Stress is a part of life. In small doses, stress can have a positive effect. But when stress is chronic, it can take its toll on the body and mind. Stress can make people irritable and cause them to lash out at others. Stress also can contribute to high blood pressure and adversely affect sleep. When confronting chronic stress, individuals may have to take action to find relief. These stress-busting strategies can help. — Engage in physical activity. The Mayo Clinic says any form of exercise can help relieve stress. Physical activity boosts chemicals in the brain and ...

Nasty norovirus is back in full force with US cases of the stomach virus surging

Cases of a wretched stomach bug are surging in parts of the United States this winter, according to government data. The most recent numbers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show there were 91 outbreaks of norovirus reported during the week of Dec. 5, up from 69 outbreaks the last week of November. Numbers from the past few years show a maximum of 65 outbreaks reported during that first week of December. A norovirus infection is characterized by sudden vomiting and diarrhea. Outbreaks are often seen on cruise ships, in congregate living situations like ...

Mount Nittany Health celebrates top baby names of 2024

STATE COLLEGE — Mount Nittany Medical Center recently unveiled the most popular baby names of 2024, celebrating nearly 1,200 babies born at the facility each year. Top Baby Names of 2024: — Boys: Oliver, Brooks, Leo, Theodore, Ethan, Parker, Silas, John, Wesley — Girls: Lainey, ...

As we recover from Thanksgiving but with many more celebrations ahead, you may find it challenging to not overindulge this holiday season. Perhaps you also hosted — or were a guest — encountering food allergies or sensitivities that might need more attention in your next gathering. With a ...

FDA says decongestant in many cold medicines doesn’t work. So what does?

WASHINGTON (AP) — Changes are coming to the cold and cough aisle of your local pharmacy: U.S. officials are moving to phase out the leading decongestant found in hundreds of over-the-counter medicines, concluding that it doesn’t actually relieve nasal congestion. Phenylephrine is used in popular versions of Sudafed, Dayquil and other medications, but experts have long questioned its effectiveness. Last month the Food and Drug Administration formally proposed revoking its use in pills and liquid solutions, kicking off a process that’s likely to force drugmakers to remove or ...

Oregon house cat died after eating pet food that tested positive for bird flu

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — An Oregon house cat died after eating pet food that tested positive for bird flu, Oregon authorities said, prompting a recall of raw frozen pet food that was sold nationwide. Northwest Naturals, a pet food company based in Portland, Oregon, said Tuesday it had voluntarily recalled one batch of its two-pound Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food after it tested positive for the virus. The product was sold through distributors in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Wisconsin, ...