• Cardiovascular

    Consumer Health: Is your usual spring cold actually spring allergies?

a young woman outside on a bright spring day, sneezing or blowing her nose into a tissueCold or allergy: Which is it?
If you tend to get colds that develop suddenly and occur at the same time every year, it's possible that what you're experiencing is seasonal allergies. Although colds and seasonal allergies share some of the same symptoms, they are very different conditions. Learn more from Dr. James Steckelberg, an emeritus Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist.

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Also in today's tips ...

Weight-loss goals: Set yourself up for success 
Weight-loss goals can mean the difference between success and failure. Realistic, well-planned weight-loss goals keep you focused and motivated. They provide a plan for change as you transition to a healthier lifestyle. But not all weight-loss goals are helpful. Here are some tips for creating goals that will help you lose weight and improve your overall health.

First aid for a corneal abrasion 
A corneal abrasion is a superficial scratch on the cornea — the clear, protective surface of the front of your eye. Signs and symptoms of corneal abrasion can include pain, a gritty feeling in the eye, tearing and redness, sensitivity to light, and headache. If you suspect you have a corneal abrasion, seek prompt medical attention. Left untreated, it could become infected and result in a corneal ulcer. Here's what you need to know.

Chronic fatigue: Do natural remedies help? 
Researchers have evaluated various natural products for effectiveness against chronic fatigue syndrome. Many promising early results weren't confirmed by follow-up studies, though, or the original studies were too small to be conclusive. Learn more from Dr. Brent Bauer, director of Mayo Clinic's Complementary and Integrative Medicine Program.

Elevated blood pressure 
Are your blood pressure numbers a little above what they should be? Elevated blood pressure means your blood pressure is slightly above normal. It likely will turn into high blood pressure unless you make lifestyle changes, such as getting more exercise and eating healthier foods. Both elevated blood pressure and high blood pressure increase your risk of a heart attack, stroke and heart failure. Weight loss, exercise and other healthy lifestyle changes often can control elevated blood pressure and set the stage for a lifetime of better health. Learn more about the importance of watching your blood pressure numbers and taking steps to keep yours in the safe zone.

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