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THIS WEEK'S TOP TOPICS
Office ergonomics: Your how-to guide
If you sit behind a desk and computer screen for hours at a time, you're not doomed to a career of neck and back pain, or sore wrists and fingers. Proper office ergonomics, including correct chair height, adequate equipment spacing and good desk posture, can help you and your joints stay comfortable. Give your work area a makeover with this visual guide to office ergonomics.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is performed to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Your health care provider may recommend a colonoscopy to investigate causes of abdominal pain, chronic constipation or diarrhea, or rectal bleeding — or to screen for colon cancer. While it may be uncomfortable to talk about, the procedure is simple and can be lifesaving. Here's what you need to know.
EXPERT ANSWERS
Will a flu shot prevent the stomach flu?
The flu shot will not prevent the stomach flu. The flu shot protects against influenza. The stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, is an infection caused by various viruses, including rotaviruses and noroviruses. The stomach flu is not caused by influenza viruses. Learn more from Dr. James Steckelberg, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist.
Is it safe to store food in takeout containers?
If you don't plan on eating takeout food immediately, the key is to limit contamination by bacteria until you do. And to reheat the food sufficiently just before serving. Learn more from Katherine Zeratsky, a Mayo Clinic registered dietitian nutritionist.
PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Infographic: Multiple sclerosis
Pseudobulbar affect
Dementia
Mammogram guidelines
HEALTHY RECIPES
Greek salad
Wild rice mushroom soup
Beef and vegetable stew
Rustic apple-cranberry tart
HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Do adults need vaccinations?
You're not a kid anymore, so you don't have to worry about shots, right? Wrong. Adults also benefit from vaccines. Talk with your health care provider about the vaccinations that you need, and stay informed about guideline changes. Adult vaccines to consider include the flu vaccine; the pneumococcal vaccine; the tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis booster vaccine (Tdap); the shingles vaccine; and the HPV vaccine.
Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover more healthy lifestyle topics at mayoclinic.org.
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