I seem to bruise often. Should I be concerned?
Probably not. A bruise is caused by a blow that breaks the small blood vessels under the skin. Blood leaks into the surrounding tissue, causing the black and blue color of a bruise. Some people, particularly women, seem to bruise more easily than others, and it can run in families. Also, we are more prone to bruising as we age.
If you have large or painful bruises, bruising is a new symptom or you notice bruising with bleeding elsewhere, such as from your gums or nose, talk with your doctor. Also tell your doctor if you notice unusual bruising after starting a new medication.
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. One study, run by Oral-B Laboratories, showed that newer toothbrushes remove more plaque than older brushes do. Another study revealed that people who used new toothbrushes had less plaque than people who used worn toothbrushes. Using newer toothbrushes also seems to help prevent gingivitis — inflammation of the gums. So if you can’t remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush, go to the nearest drugstore for a replacement.
My doctor told me that I have pre-diabetes. What does this mean?
Pre-diabetes refers to a condition called "impaired glucose tolerance." This means that a person’s blood sugar is slowly rising higher than normal, but not high enough to be considered diabetes. Research done by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shows that most people who have pre-diabetes will develop diabetes in 10 years unless they do something to improve their health. Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin to turn blood sugar into energy. Without treatment, diabetes can lead to blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, amputation and death. Studies show that by walking 30 minutes five days a week and losing 5 to 7 percent of your body weight, you can reduce your risk of developing full-blown diabetes by 50 percent.
The American Diabetes Association and the National Institutes of Health recommend that people ages 45 and older, especially if they are overweight, and those who are significantly overweight and at high risk for diabetes, should talk with their doctor about being tested for pre-diabetes.
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