• Featured News

    Housecall: How opioid addiction occurs

a close-up of an older woman looking worried, sad, tired, lonely, depressedTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
How opioid addiction occurs
Anyone who takes opioids is at risk of developing addiction. Your personal history and the length of time you use opioids play a role, but it's impossible to predict who's vulnerable to eventual dependence on and abuse of these drugs. Find out how short-term pain relief can result in life-threatening problems.

Vaccines for adults
Vaccines offer protection from infectious diseases, and the need for vaccines continues into adulthood. Vaccines for adults are recommended based on age, prior vaccinations, health, lifestyle, occupation and travel destinations. Find out which vaccines you may need and how you can stay on top of updates to the recommended schedule of vaccinations for adults.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Managing depression and MS
Depression is very common among people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Some evidence suggests that MS may cause changes in the body that make you more vulnerable to depression. Whether your depression is a reaction to, or caused by, MS, there are effective treatments. Learn more from Dr. Daniel Hall-Flavin, a Mayo Clinic psychiatrist.

What causes laryngospasms?
A laryngospasm is a spasm of the vocal cords that temporarily makes it difficult to speak or breathe. The cause of vocal cord spasms often is unknown, but conditions such as anxiety and acid reflux may be contributing factors or triggers. Learn more from Dr. Edward Rosenow III, an emeritus Mayo Clinic pulmonologist.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Slideshow: 'Exercises to improve your core strength'
Meningitis
Burns: First aid
Organ donation: Don't let these myths confuse you

HEALTHY RECIPES
Blueberry lavender lemonade
Baked Brie envelopes
Gingery chicken noodle soup
Citrus seared salmon

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Want a better workout? Eat breakfast
If you exercise in the morning, get up early enough to have breakfast. If you don't eat, you may feel sluggish or light-headed when you exercise. Eat at least an hour before your workout, so you're well-fueled. If you plan to work out within an hour after breakfast, have a lighter meal or just a sports drink.

Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover more healthy lifestyle topics at mayoclinic.org.

Receive a free e-subscription to Housecall and other health newsletters.