Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Charcoal toothpastes, marketed as tooth whiteners, contain activated charcoal, an abrasive substance that can help remove surface stains. While safe in small doses, charcoal toothpaste shouldn't be used daily, since it may damage tooth enamel.

Sometimes mucus secretions in the lungs can persist after someone starts to get better from a chest cold, flu, pneumonia, or COVID. To cope with the problem, experts recommend two approaches. One is doing exercises that clear the lungs, such as a series of breaths and coughs that dislodges mucus. The other approach is doing exercises that strengthen respiratory muscles. An example is diaphragmatic breathing, a type of deep breathing that relies on the diaphragm muscle located below the lungs.

Cuticles hinder germs from entering the nail bed. Dry, cracked, or damaged cuticles may become infected, leading to a red, swollen, painful area around the nail. Mild nail infections can be treated at home, but people should see their doctor if the infection doesn't resolve.

Annually, about 790,000 Americans (about 60% women) undergo knee replacement surgery. Women are more likely to have arthritis, the main culprit leading to most knee replacements. Before surgery becomes an option, people first need to try conservative treatments such as pain relievers, injectable medications, and physical therapy. Signs a knee replacement may be necessary include pain that hinders people from doing basic activities, unstable walking, and needing multiple medications to function.

A 2024 study suggests that women who engage in the most physical activity-regardless of how it's measured-have significantly lower risks of developing cardiovascular disease or dying early.

Eye drops that claim to change a person's eye color are being promoted online, and the ability to do this may sound tempting. But are these products safe? The answer is a hard no according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.