Erica Shaddock

Smoking may not be related to dementia risk after all

Study of 531 cognitively healthy older adults over 11.5 years finds no link between smoking and dementia after accounting for 'competing risk' of death.
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What to know about smoking and ulcerative colitis

Smoking has links to major health issues, but nicotine replacement products may help with ulcerative colitis. Some studies suggest that nicotine can ease symptoms in some people. Learn more here.
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Sugary drinks can be a factor in cardiovascular disease

A recent study finds an association between sugary drinks and higher rates of mortality from cardiovascular disease, as well as higher cancer rates.
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How does smoking affect the body?

Smoking cigarettes can affect the body in many ways, raising the risk of several serious health conditions. Learn more about the effects of smoking cigarettes in this article.
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What to know about acute respiratory failure

Symptoms of acute respiratory failure include shortness of breath and confusion. Causes include lung-related conditions and chest trauma. Learn more about acute respiratory failure here.
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How to reduce your risk of asthma

Asthma risk factors include smoking, dust mites, and environmental pollutants, as well as many others. Steering clear of these risk factors can help people avoid developing the condition. Learn more about how to prevent asthma here.
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Natural ways to cleanse your lungs

The lungs are self-cleaning organs, but people can also use certain methods to clear mucus and open up the airways. In this article, we look at seven natural ways in which people can try to cleanse their lungs.
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How does smoking affect people with asthma?

Smoking, secondhand smoke, and e-cigarette vapor can all aggravate a person's asthma symptoms. Learn more about the link between asthma and smoking here.
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What causes difficulty breathing?

People can experience difficulty breathing for a wide range of reasons. In this article, we look at causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent breathing difficulties.
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How safe are e-cigarettes? The debate continues

As more people use e-cigarettes, debates about their safety continue. For now, NHS England and Scotland conclude that smoking tobacco does more harm.
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What is a normal respiratory rate?

A normal respiratory rate varies depending on a person’s age and activity levels. In this article, we look at the normal rates and what high and low rates mean.
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What to know about obstructive lung disease

Obstructive lung disease describes a range of conditions in which a person’s airways are blocked. In this article, we look at its types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
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How does smoking marijuana affect sperm?

A new study investigates how marijuana smoking can affect the quality of sperm. Its findings contradict the researchers' initial hypothesis.
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Thinking of quitting smoking? Today's the day

A new study finds that the cardiovascular impact of smoking takes longer to be reversed than once thought. When giving up tobacco, sooner is preferable.
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Lung disease may increase dementia risk

New research uncovers another potential risk factor for dementia and, more generally, for cognitive impairment, namely having a lung disease in midlife.
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COPD and anxiety: Researchers test promising approach

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can also experience severe anxiety. A new trial puts to the test an effective coping strategy.
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What exercises can help increase lung capacity?

The lungs have a very large capacity and may respond to exercises, including pursed lip breathing and belly breathing. There are also many lifestyle changes that can help improve and strengthen the lungs, such as not smoking and avoiding other lung pollutants. Learn more about how to increase lung capacity here.
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What is ozone therapy? Benefits and risks

Ozone therapy is thought to improve the body's intake and use of oxygen and to activate the immune system. Learn more about the benefits.
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The pros and cons of e-cigarettes revealed

These are the conclusions of one of the the largest reports to have ever been conducted on the health risks of electronic cigarettes.
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Childhood eczema, asthma may be relieved with new treatment

New research uses a combination of two anti-inflammatory compounds in an attempt to stop the development of the so-called atopic march.
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