• Housecall: Safety Tips for Exercising Outdoors

people running, jogging in winter snow and on icy path

THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Winter fitness: Safety tips for exercising outdoors
Chilly temperatures don't have to put your fitness routine on hold. Stay safe and warm with these cold-weather exercise tips.

Polycythemia vera
Getting older increases the risk of having this blood disorder. The good news? Proper treatment may ease symptoms. Find out more.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Acupuncture for back pain?
Find out what the research says about easing chronic low back pain with acupuncture.

Flu symptoms: Should I see my doctor?
If you're at high risk of flu complications and have signs of the illness, see your doctor.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS ...
Essential thrombocythemia
Chronic hives: When should I see my doctor?
Myelofibrosis
Protect your joints as you clean when you have rheumatoid arthritis

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

HEALTHY RECIPES
Cheese latkes
Kugel
Beef brisket
Spicy red cabbage

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
What's your antibiotics IQ?
To fight the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections, and to avoid complications from unnecessary medication, everyone needs to be smart about using antibiotics. Keep these tips in mind: 1. Antibiotics are effective only for bacterial infections. They don't work for viral illnesses, such as the common cold. 2. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, take them exactly as directed. Don't stop treatment early, even if you start feeling better. 3. Never take antibiotics that were prescribed for someone else.

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

NOW BLOGGING
Nutrition-wise: Healthy gift ideas for the holidays
Are gift ideas for family, friends and coworkers in short supply? Get inspired with these fun and healthy suggestions.