CLEVELAND CLINIC

Spring allergy season starts in February and can last until early summer in many parts of the United States.

New research from Cleveland Clinic found a commonly used artificial sweetener is associated with an increased risk for heart attack and stroke.

With the right mindset, psychologist Dr. Susan Albers with Cleveland Clinic believes you can drum up some good fortune.

A recent Cleveland Clinic survey found almost half of Americans admitted they buy fast food at least once a week, with younger generations doing it the most.

Although still relatively rare, MIS-C after COVID-19 has become more common and more severe than previously thought. A new study is raising critical questions.

Pets can be a common gift around the holiday season, but is a new cat or dog the culprit behind your sneezing?

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 200,000 toy-related injuries were treated in Emergency Departments in 2021.

With so many vitamins and supplements available these days, you may be wondering which ones you actually need.

Some ideas include spritzing it on toast for breakfast or drizzling it over salad. However you consume it, extra virgin olive oil may do your body good.

Feeling weak? Trouble sleeping? Blurry vision? All these symptoms could be a sign you’re not getting enough of vitamin C.

Skin cancer is considered the most common cancer in the United States, but a survey reveals most kids aren’t protecting themselves against it.

Nearly two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease are women, but according to a new Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement at Cleveland Clinic survey, 82% of women aren’t even aware that they’re at greater risk for developing the disease.

A new Cleveland Clinic study shows that melanoma isn't just caused by environmental factors. Researchers discovered genetics can also play a role.

As temperatures continue to climb this summer, doctors say it’s important to drink plenty of water -- otherwise, you could risk dehydration.

Food that isn’t kept at a safe temperature can grow bacteria and make us sick.

If you are looking for a new hobby to take on this summer, you may want to think about gardening.

The majority of Americans find that taking small moments throughout the day is beneficial to their mental health, according to a new Cleveland Clinic survey.

It seems like word games have grown in popularity over the years. They’re a fun and easy way to stay entertained. But, did you know they can also help keep your brain healthy?

A recent Cleveland Clinic study found that people with certain sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, had more severe outcomes with COVID-19, including a 31% higher rate of hospitalization and mortality.

In the U.S., 12 percent of people 20 years or older have high cholesterol.

If you’re looking to get fit for summer, you may be wondering where to begin – especially with so many different dieting tips out there.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, which is a time set aside every year to promote the importance of screenings.

We got some advice from a Cleveland Clinic Psychologist on how much we can eat without guilt -- and how to stick to the plan.

Starting a new workout can be intimidating, especially if you haven’t been to the gym in a while -- but it doesn’t have to be.

Pregnant moms are at increased risk for severe illness from respiratory viruses like flu and COVID-19.

Dr. Susan Albers, psychologist for Cleveland Clinic, has some food ideas that can help boost your mood.

A new study from the Cleveland Clinic shows blood pressure increased significantly for many individuals during the pandemic.

A new Cleveland Clinic study shows bariatric surgery can be an effective treatment for advanced fatty liver disease.

Low back pain, tightness, stiff joints, and possibly even sciatica can occur when we fail to warm up first.

Results from a Cleveland Clinic study, which has been years in the making, show the benefits of deep brain stimulation for people who have had a stroke.

If you noticed you’re still dealing with lingering headaches after contracting COVID-19, you’re not alone.

Stuffy nose, post nasal drip, sneezing and wheezing -- ah, the joys of fall allergy season, or is it?

A Cleveland Clinic study found that patients who regularly use steroid nasal sprays are less likely to develop a severe case of COVID-19

A Cleveland Clinic study has found a connection between COVID-19 and brain changes commonly seen in Alzheimer‘s disease.

According to a Cleveland Clinic survey, 66% of men have tried digital healthcare in the past year and 29% said they prefer it.

Some COVID-19 survivors can struggle with lingering medical problems for months.

Who doesn’t love a clean, organized space? It turns out decluttering your home may declutter your mind as well.

When the power goes out unexpectedly, you may be left with a fridge full of question marks.

If you’re feeling a little under the weather this summer, you’re not alone.

The month of June is dedicated to men’s health and doctors hope you can deliver this message: Screenings are very important – especially as a man gets older.

Many people purchased a "pandemic puppy" in the last year, but what if you find that you’re allergic to your new furry friend?

People with asthma may be wondering if they’re at higher risk for COVID-19, and it turns out they are not. However, they are more likely to be hospitalized if they contract the virus.

According to a survey from Cleveland Clinic and Parade magazine, nearly half of Americans said they’ve experienced changes in physical and mental health during the pandemic.

If you have already had COVID-19, you may think you don’t need the vaccine, but a Cleveland Clinic doctor said it’s still important to have that protection.

Buying a gift for Mother’s Day can sometimes be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Cleveland Clinic’s Dr. Susan Albers said there’s actually a science to finding that perfect present.

Many people are in the midst of spring allergy misery, but if you also wrestle with ragweed in the fall – you’ll want to start seeking relief now, according to Cleveland Clinic allergist Dr. Sandra Hong.

Earth Day is a time to think about the environment and global warming and climate change are often top of mind.

Newly released data shows the COVID-19 vaccine is safe for pregnant women and can also provide protection for their baby, which doctors say is good news for those who may have been hesitant before.

Working from home during the pandemic can be stressful. Many people’s personal and professional lives have suddenly blended together, which can create new challenges in their day.

A recent survey from the CDC is raising some concerns about virtual learning.

An infectious disease specialist offers tips on ways to stay safe while celebrating Easter with your family.

Despite the pandemic, baseball fans across the country are gearing up for opening day. According to Scott Bea, a psychologist with Cleveland Clinic, the first crack of the bat, along with the start of spring, can really lift our moods. That the weather’s going to get better and maybe my team will make it to the World Series,” Dr. Bea said. He added, people who struggle with seasonal depression typically don’t start to feel better until the weather actually gets warmer and the sun is out longer. But for those of us who may just have the winter ‘blahs’ – the first signs of spring can provide a boost.

Dr. Esper said driving is a safer alternative. But, it is best to not be around other people,” said Dr. Esper. “There’s no difference between travel restrictions for vaccinated and unvaccinated. We don’t know that yet,” Dr. Esper said. Also, if you’re leaving the state, it’s a good idea to check pandemic travel restrictions, as they vary from state-to-state.

The Cleveland Clinic is advising Americans against traveling for spring break, saying the coast is not yet clear. Spring break is just around the corner and many families are longing for a warm, sunny destination. Even though COVID-19 case numbers are trending down, that doesn’t mean it’s time to hit the road, just yet. AdEven if you’re vaccinated, travel is not recommended at this time. Whether you’re vaccinated or not, we still need to keep wearing the masks, stay socially distant, avoid the crowds and, for right now, try to minimize your travel,” Dr. Esper said.

We’re finally starting to get some freedom from COVID-19, thanks to the vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently announced fewer restrictions for people who are fully vaccinated. Dr. Englund said the updated guidelines give people with a full vaccine series a break from some COVID-19 restrictions. Also, people who are vaccinated are now permitted to visit unvaccinated people from a single household indoors, without a mask. Dr. Englund added, it’s important to note post-vaccination guidelines are only for small gatherings with people you know.

Now that we’ve sprung forward, you may be feeling that lost hour of sleep. It may not seem like much, but losing even an hour, in an already sleep-deprived society, can have health implications. Also, when we’re not commuting to work in the morning, we’re exposed to less light and our bodies need daylight to help regulate our internal clock. Daylight saving time adds to the sleep deprivation we’re already experiencing. She explained, exercise increases your body temperature which helps wake you up and will allow you to function better.

We’re all feeling the stress of the pandemic and many of us head straight to the kitchen to cope. Studies have shown that citrus aroma is actually calming and soothing.”Pumpkin seeds, which are packed with magnesium, are another stress-relieving snack. “Studies have shown that people who have low magnesium actually have higher anxiety levels.”And if you struggle with emotional eating, just two Brazil nuts each day may help, according to Albers. If stress is keeping you up at night – Dr. Albers said tart cherries, or cherry juice, may help ease your mind. Finally, Dr. Albers noted that adding cinnamon to food can help regulate blood sugar, and its scent may make you feel less stressed too.

If you’ve received a COVID-19 vaccine, you may have noticed some swollen lymph nodes. “We know that lymph node swelling can be a common reaction, or side effect, to any vaccine -- especially the flu vaccine or the shingles vaccine that we’ve had lots of experience with over the years,” she said. “And that seems to be especially true following the COVID vaccine.”Dean said a small number of patients have reported swollen lymph nodes under the arm two-to-four days after vaccination, on average. AdHowever, lymph node swelling is sometimes associated with cancer, causing some people to worry. If you happen to have a routine mammogram scheduled around the time of your COVID-19 vaccine, Dr. Dean encourages women to see it through and simply let your medical team know you’ve recently been vaccinated.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States and doctors fear delays in screening and diagnosis may lead to more advanced stage cancers and poor outcomes. Colorectal cancer is preventable when pre-cancerous polyps are found and removed, that’s why screening is so important. AdDr. Steele said a colonoscopy is considered the ‘gold standard’ in colorectal screening, but at-home options are available too. The American Cancer Society recommends adults at average risk for colorectal cancer be screened at age 45. People at high risk, including those with a family history of polyps or colon cancer, may be due sooner.

If you’ve gotten a COVID-19 vaccine, you may be wondering if pandemic precautions are still necessary. About two weeks after the second vaccine, recipients are 95% protected from COVID-19. Doctors are still trying to determine if someone who’s been vaccinated can carry and pass the virus to somebody who’s unvaccinated – so, precautions are still necessary. AdVirus variants are another reason to continue COVID safety measures, just in case a variant emerges that isn’t covered by the vaccine. If you’re spending time with people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, Dr. Englund said safety rules still apply.

Nearly half of Americans say they’ve gained weight during the pandemic, according to a recent survey. AdThen, there’s the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH, diet – which focuses on foods to help lower blood pressure. And there’s also a newer combination of the two called the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, or MIND diet. “That diet has been shown, with rigorous adherence, to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia by about 53%, so this is really a brain boosting diet,” said Kirkpatrick. If you’re having trouble deciding what diet is right for you, talk to your healthcare provider or enlist the help of a dietician.

Dr. Emad Estemalik, a headache specialist with Cleveland Clinic, said the daily stress we’re feeling over COVID-19 can cause our heads to pound. So, how can we reduce stress, and our risk for headaches? He also advises a walk outdoors, meditation or yoga to relieve stress. Poor sleep quality can lead to headaches too, so it’s best to turn off electronics in the evening to help calm your mind. He adds that exercise is another good way to relieve stress, and therefore ward off tension-related headaches.

According to a recent survey, many Americans are putting their heart health on the back burner due to fear of contracting COVID-19. But, according to a recent survey many Americans are putting their heart health on the back burner due to fear of contracting COVID-19. “This is not a good idea because blood pressure, cholesterol can go up,” said Dr. Kapadia. “And if you ever contract COVID, these kinds of situations can make the outcomes even worse, so filling medications, taking medications regularly, having proper levels to check if the medications are working or not. So, the weight gain, in all terms, cardiovascular health, or general health, is not a good outcome,” said Dr. Kapadia.

A recent survey shows some couples feel the quarantine has actually brought them closer together. There were many predictions that quarantine was going to have a negative impact on relationships and lead to more break ups and divorces. But, a recent survey shows some couples feel it actually brought them closer together. “In a review of over 43 different studies and 11,000 couples interviewed, the number one factor in keeping couples together, and close, is expressing appreciation of your significant other,” said Dr. Albers. It can be small or something that is really significant to who they are.”If you find yourself having relationship troubles, Dr. Albers encourages reaching out to a couples counselor.

Atrial Fibrillation, or AFib, is an irregular heartbeat that can cause poor blood flow. Atrial Fibrillation, or AFib, is an irregular heartbeat that can cause poor blood flow. Patients received the standard medication, or a cryo balloon ablation. After a year, 75% of the patients who received an ablation were still free from AFib. AdIn comparison, only 45% of the patients who received medication were still AFib-free.

We all want a healthy immune system to help fight off infection, especially during a pandemic. Vitamin D also supports immune health, but the body doesn’t absorb it well from food, so you’ll want to consider a supplemental form, like D3. Ad“It’s also important to talk about things that make the immune system less likely to perform well, so that is highly processed foods, fast foods, added sugars, those all negatively impact gut health and negatively impact the immune system as well,” Kirkpatrick said. She also recommends switching to a whole foods diet, which is primarily plant based, to keep your immune system strong. Regular exercise and good sleep habits will also help immune health.

A Cleveland Clinic survey shows some Americans don’t realize the impact coronavirus can have on heart health. A Cleveland Clinic survey shows some Americans don’t realize the impact coronavirus can have on heart health. He added, those with heart disease are at particularly high risk for severe COVID-19 infection and complications, but the survey shows more than 60% are unaware. AdAnd nearly 70% don’t realize hypertension increases risk for a severe case of coronavirus. So, don’t delay care for concerning symptoms, or for check-ups to help manage chronic heart and medical conditions.

What should I know about COVID-19 vaccines if Im pregnant? AP Illustration/Peter HamlinStudies show pregnant women with severe COVID-19 are at higher risk for hospitalization, ICU admission and ventilation. “Based on peer-reviewed, vigorous scientific evidence that we have in non-pregnant patients, we feel it’s safe for pregnant patients who desire the vaccine to get it,” said Cleveland Clinic OB/GYN Tosin Goje, MD. “Trials in pregnant patients are ongoing right now, so I’m confident that by the time the vaccine is offered to the general pregnant population, we should have some data that will reassure the pregnant patient,” said Dr. Goje. “But, there are no safety signals or concerns right now.”Whether vaccine is accepted, or not, Dr. Goje encourages women to continue to wear a mask, socially distance and wash their hands.

Five finalists — Kenneth Ford, Jameea Jackson-Gaines, Kimberly Parker, Nadine Ebri, Jim Schmitt — in the running to be the VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year will find out Wednesday if they have won the honor. The finalists were chosen among Duval County’s best based on their applications, interviews and footage of them teaching, according to the Jacksonville Public Education Fund. We will all find out at the same time as the winner is revealed during The EDDY Awards live on Channel 4 at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday. Watch the awards show, hosted by News4Jax anchor Melanie Lawson, below.

Working from home can definitely have its perks — but it can also create some bad habits, like snacking throughout the day. “So, this is an increase in emotional eating, stress eating and a lot of mindless snacking.”Dr. Albers says that’s why it’s important to practice mindful eating. To help do that, she says you’ll want to remember the ‘three S’s.’First, sit down while you eat. Instead, think of location, location, location. As for snack ideas — she says oranges, pumpkin seeds and Brazil nuts are all great options.

There’s good news when it comes to bariatric surgery and COVID-19. A recent Cleveland Clinic study shows those who’ve had weight loss surgery are less likely to be hospitalized for the virus. Their goal was to see how the virus impacted those with severe obesity compared to those who previously had bariatric surgery. “We found that in patients with severe obesity, 42 percent of them required hospital admission versus only 18 percent of patients who had history of bariatric surgery,” said Dr. Aminian. Dr. Aminian adds people are generally healthier after losing a large amount of excess weight, which gives them a better chance at fighting the virus.

Trump instituted a major loosening of ethics standards when compared with the administration of his predecessor, Barack Obama, as well as the rules that will govern President Joe Biden's White House. Trump signed the one-page revocation of the ethics order on Tuesday, and it was released by the White House shortly after 1 a.m. Wednesday, hours before his term ended. The Trump White House did not respond to a request for comment on Wednesday morning. Those who depart toward the end of Biden’s tenure will be prohibited from lobbying the White House for at least two years. The ethics order was described by a Biden transition official on the condition of anonymity because the order has not yet been made public.

Parenting during the coronavirus pandemic can be stressful. So how do you cope with all these new changes while trying to keep the same rules you had before? “There is no rulebook or handbook on quarantine parenting,” said Susan Albers, PsyD, of Cleveland Clinic. Children are constantly observing, so if they see you neglecting your own responsibilities, they may try to do the same. She adds you may also want to talk with other parents to see what’s working for them.

COVID-19 and influenza are circulating simultaneously this season. While there aren’t any approved outpatient treatments for COVID-19, there are prescription antiviral medicines available to treat flu. Regardless of the virus you’re fighting, it’s important to recognize signs of distress and when to seek immediate help. As we wait our turn for COVID-19 vaccine, Rehm reminds us there’s already a vaccine available to help prevent flu. She says in the midst of a pandemic, it’s more important than ever to get a flu shot.

According to Cleveland Clinic’s annual ranking of medical innovations, expanded access to medications for cystic fibrosis and hepatitis C, take two of the top 10 spots. According to Cleveland Clinic’s annual ranking of medical innovations, expanded access to medications for cystic fibrosis and hepatitis C, take two of the top ten spots. “We can now serve 90% of patients who have hepatitis C,” said Dr. Will Morris, executive medical director for Cleveland Clinic Innovations. “This gene therapy goes in and actually changes the genetic code of these blood cells and allows them to actually produce normal hemoglobin,” Morris said. “This is a game-changing intervention that actually cures the patient and allows them to live a normal and productive life.”Morris explained that the medical innovations making the 2021 top ten list are anticipated to help deliver better care, at a lower cost and make healthcare more accessible.

If you’re losing sleep over COVID-19, you’re not alone. “There are a lot of things impacting sleep based on the current situation,”Dreru said. Constant stress and lack of sleep can negatively impact the immune system and mental health may suffer. Chronic sleep issues may also lead to an increased risk of weight gain, diabetes and high blood pressure. Drerup said our sleep patterns thrive on routine and consistency, so it’s a good idea to keep consistent sleep and wake times –- even on weekends or days off.

In this socially distant holiday season, Santa Claus is still coming to towns (and shopping malls) across America but with a few 2020 rules in effect. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)Santa Claus is coming to town and you may be wondering if it’s safe to visit with the big guy this year, especially as coronavirus cases continue to rise. “I don’t think you can do that safely, even if Santa is wearing a mask and you’re wearing a mask because obviously you’re not six feet away.”Dr. Robinson said there are still ways to visit with Santa but it’ll definitely be different than what you’re used to. “I think that is a great option because we’ve all gotten so used to doing that with family and friends,” said Dr. Robinson. And if you see people standing around without masks or in big groups, you may want to come back another day.

The first COVID-19 vaccine has been granted Emergency Use Authorization by the Food and Drug Administration, and a second is being evaluated. Both are MRNA vaccines – a new type of vaccine technology. “These MRNA vaccines are highly effective,” said Thad Stappenbeck, MD, PhD, Chair of Cleveland Clinic’s Department of Inflammation & Immunity. When COVID-19 MRNA is used in a vaccine, it’s engineered and encoded to activate the body’s immune system to fight coronavirus. They had really no major safety concerns in either of the major trials that have been done with these vaccines.”Per federal advisors, COVID-19 vaccines will first be administered to healthcare workers, and residents and staff of long-term care facilities.

There’s finally a light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel. The first coronavirus vaccines are being distributed across the United States. Kristin Englund, MD, an infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic, hopes this is the beginning of the end of the pandemic. Vaccines are currently being distributed in small amounts. With an end in sight, Dr. Englund said it’s more critical than ever to remain vigilant with coronavirus precautions.

Caring for people hospitalized with COVID-19 is complex, as they’re often the sickest patients in the intensive care unit. Now, a recent study shows having a standard process for treating coronavirus patients helps them recover faster. Results show COVID-19 patients did better, needed less time in the ICU, and went home sooner once protocols were put in place to standardize care. “Doing the things that we know work, face mask, wearing them appropriately, social distancing, washing hands, avoiding really crowded gatherings,” said Dr. Khouli. A face mask should be worn whenever you’re around people you don’t live with, especially indoors.

If your family is planning to travel for the holidays, you may want to think twice. Doctors say there’s a lot of uncertainty right now with the pandemic, which is why they’re encouraging people to stay closer to home. “Not just whether or not to travel, but how to travel, where to travel and what happens when you come back. What may be right for one family may not necessarily be right for another,” said Dr. Esper. You need to talk to your parents and you need to talk to your children.

In the midst of a pandemic, good handwashing is one of the best things we can do to prevent transmission of any illness. Dr. Esper said germs can be transferred from person-to-person when we touch things like door knobs, money, or even other people. “You can help prevent those infections by washing your hands.”The good news, according to Dr. Esper, is we don’t need anything fancy to keep hands clean. “A regular, good, generic soap will do just as fine as the expensive ones with labels that say ‘antibacterial’ and things like that,” he said. “The youngest children – the one and two-year-olds – are not very good hand-washers,” said Dr. Esper.

As COVID-19 continues to spread, get-togethers, shared meals and travel carry extra risk for those we love. Joseph Khabbaza, a critical care specialist at Cleveland Clinic, recommends erring on the side of caution when planning festivities this year. “Being as safe as possible, there’s very little downside to that right now,” Dr. Khabbaza said. To reduce virus transmission risk, social distancing of at least six feet between guests, good ventilation and masking are recommended. Gathering virtually may be the best way to go for families looking for a way to connect that’s sure to be safe.

An international clinical trial finds prescription-strength fish oil may not help your heart. “A very high-dose, of a very powerful fish oil, a very effective fish oil, didn’t produce any reduction in the risk of heart attack, stroke or death,” said Nissen. Participants were given either a high-dose prescription fish oil, or a corn oil placebo. Ultimately, researchers found no significant reduction in heart attack, stroke or death for the people taking high-dose fish oil. Those in the fish oil group were also 69% more likely to develop an irregular heartbeat.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, many families are trying to figure out how to celebrate safely in the midst of the pandemic and keep older relatives physically, but not socially, distant. Kenneth Koncilja, a geriatrics specialist at Cleveland Clinic, said it’s a tough call as to whether elderly loved ones should stay home this year. For months, COVID-19 has forced many of us to keep our distance from the elderly, as older people are at higher risk and have higher mortality rates from COVID-19. That leaves many families wondering how to keep elderly relatives safe, without depriving them of time to socialize. If your relatives don’t feel comfortable coming over, there are still ways to connect with them.

Epilepsy affects the central nervous system and causes seizures. He says it’s especially important to take COVID-19 precautions if you have epilepsy and comorbidities, for example if you’re a smoker, have hypertension or obesity. According to Dr. Hantus, what’s interesting about COVID-19 is that it can actually induce seizures in those who don’t have epilepsy. “We’re not exactly sure how COVID causes seizures,” he said. He says some people might be scared they’ll contract COVID-19, but most medical offices have safety measures in place to help prevent that.

If you’re heading to the polls this election day, there are some precautions you’ll want to take to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask over your nose and mouth; and sanitize your hands after touching objects like door handles and voting machines. Many polling locations provide hand sanitizer, but it’s not a bad idea to bring your own -- just in case. People looking for another way to protect themselves can wear a face shield, in addition to a mask, to prevent droplets from getting into their eyes. “One other thing that I’ve been recommending to patients, especially since lines have been longer, is wearing a face shield,” said Khabbaza.

We’re learning more about how COVID-19 impacts the brain, and evidence suggests the infection may increase risk for suffering a stroke. “We’re actually seeing young people who don’t have the traditional risk factors for stroke like high blood pressure, or other problems. These are young, healthy people, who are coming in with big, big strokes.”Regardless of age or COVID-19, Hussain said stroke symptoms should never be ignored. He reminds people to use the acronym ‘BE FAST’ to recognize stroke symptoms. If someone has stroke symptoms -- do not delay care, seek medical attention immediately.

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Research shows colorectal cancer in younger adults is on the rise. Now, that data has prompted an expert panel to recommend colon cancer screening start at age 45 – instead of 50. The task force said colorectal cancer screening saves lives and that adults ages 45 to 75 should be screened to reduce risk of dying from the disease. Draft recommendations are typically posted for public comment for about a month before final guidelines are issued.

Halloween is just around the corner and it’s sure to look and feel much different this year due to the pandemic. Many cities are taking precautions, but what can parents do to keep their little ghosts and goblins safe? “There are so many Halloween costumes and masks available out there for kids and teenagers who want to go out trick-or-treating, but it’s difficult to say whether Halloween masks, in and of themselves, are protective,” said Kristin Englund, MD, an infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic. She said kids probably don’t want to wear a cloth mask under their Halloween mask since it could be hard to breathe. But let’s be safe.”If you don’t feel comfortable taking your kids out for trick-or-treating on Halloween, you can always plan other activities to do at home — like carving pumpkins with your family or organizing a candy scavenger hunt.

It is also a major risk factor for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the country. Cleveland Clinic researchers looked into whether weight loss surgery could reduce some of these health problems. Aminian said it shows there are benefits to metabolic surgery, beyond weight loss. Based on this research, Cleveland Clinic’s team developed a calculator to help patients decide if weight loss surgery is right for them. It looks at a person’s individual risk factors and shows their risk of developing major heart complications over the next 10 years.

If you can’t go a day without coffee, you’re not alone. A recent study shows it may help slow the spread of colon cancer. The study looked at dietary questionnaires from 1,171 people who were undergoing chemotherapy for advanced or metastatic colon cancer. They found that for every cup of coffee consumed, there was a seven percent improvement in survival; and a five percent improvement in cancer growth. Researchers found that it didn’t matter if someone drank decaf or caffeinated coffee — both appeared to positively impact colon cancer.

According to Dr. Salena Zanotti, of Cleveland Clinic, pregnancy loss is actually more common than most people think. She said people often ask if there was something they could have done differently to prevent a loss, but many times, early pregnancy loss is caused by a genetic abnormality that cannot be changed. "I want them to have hope that they will have successful pregnancies, but the most important thing is to be as healthy as you can be." Zanotti reminds couples that smoking and drug use can cause pregnancy complications, so these are lifestyle changes that need to be controlled before getting pregnant. “The important thing for couples to understand is to wait until they’re emotionally ready,” she said.

According to a recent survey from Parade Magazine and Cleveland Clinic, the pandemic has motivated some people to get healthy. “In the group of younger adults, from 18 to 34, three-quarters experienced mental health issues -- stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, isolation,” said Hyman. “Hospitals are very rigorous about their safety protocols, precautions, and it probably is safer than most other places to go. I do think that people need to pay attention to their symptoms, they need to go get help when they don’t feel well. They need to focus on their preventive care.”Despite the stress of COVID-19, the survey also shows 72%of respondents have a positive outlook for the future.

Kristin Englund, MD, an infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic said it’s important to remember that only certain masks are proven effective in reducing coronavirus spread. “We know that cloth masks that have two layers of cloth are the best way to protect yourself when you’re out trick-or-treating,” she said. Try to find some cloth that matches your costume and make your own masks.”Surgical and cloth masks are often worn to help prevent COVID-19. When it comes to cloth masks though, Dr. Englund said one layer of cloth is okay, but two layers will provide better protection. And if you’re thinking about layering masks on Halloween, don’t bother doubling up.

During an interview with Biden's running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, Maddow asked whether she was “as mad as everybody else” about the Trump town hall. NBC said it agreed to set up the dueling town hall after Trump was administered a coronavirus test Tuesday by the National Institutes of Health. Trump's town hall on NBC is scheduled for an hour. An estimated 6.7 million people saw Biden at an NBC News-sponsored town hall last week. Trump's ABC town hall with Stephanopoulos on Sept. 15 was seen by 3.8 million people, Nielsen said.

President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden participate in the first presidential debate Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020, at Case Western University and Cleveland Clinic, in Cleveland. (Olivier Douliery/Pool vi AP)

Trump, who is eager to return to the campaign trail despite uncertainty about his health, said he wouldn’t participate if the debate wasn’t in person. The Oct. 22 debate in Nashville, Tennessee, is scheduled to feature a format similar to the first. Biden’s campaign has suggested that it be modified to the “town meeting” format, though the Trump campaign has not weighed in. As he campaigned in Arizona, Biden said he would indeed attend the Oct. 22 debate. Trump fell ill with the virus on Oct. 1, just 48 hours after sharing a stage with Biden in person during the first presidential debate in Cleveland.

COVID-19 and influenza are difficult to tell apart. They’re both deadly respiratory diseases with similar symptoms — but there are a few important differences, according to Susan Rehm, MD, an infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Rehm recommends calling your healthcare provider within the first day or two of illness for maximum impact with flu antivirals. She notes that several antivirals are being studied for COVID-19, but they’re not available for use at home. Another difference between flu and coronavirus is that we have a vaccine to help prevent influenza.

Chris Christie, seen in an AP photo with his arm around another guest while chatting up several face to face, announced his positive virus test this weekend. Trump’s campaign manager, Bill Stepien, who attended the debate and helped him prepare with Christie, has tested positive for COVID-19. White House officials said they began learning of Hicks’ positive test after Trump boarded Marine One to start his journey to New Jersey. Despite the abject failure to keep the president protected from the virus, White House officials defended their current protocols as well thought out. And masks still won't be required on the White House grounds for all West Wing employees.