• Housecall: Save a life; donate blood

a graphic illustration of a bag of donated blood, with the tubing forming a valentine heartTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Donate blood to save lives
Each year, millions of people need a blood transfusion. Some may need blood during surgery. Others depend on it after an accident or because they have a disease that requires blood components. Blood donation makes all of this possible. There is no substitute for human blood. All transfusions use blood from a donor. Help save a life today and be a blood donor.

Strategies to prevent heart disease
Heart disease may be a leading cause of death, but that doesn't mean you have to accept it as your fate. Although you lack the power to change some risk factors, such as family history, sex or age, you can take steps to reduce your risk. You may avoid heart problems in the future by adopting a healthy lifestyle today. From moving more to sleeping enough, get started with these tips.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Can stress cause hair loss?
Hair loss can be linked to high stress levels, but it also can signal an underlying medical condition that requires treatment. Learn more from Dr. Daniel Hall-Flavin, a Mayo Clinic psychiatrist.

Will my vision deteriorate after cataract surgery?
Your vision generally doesn't deteriorate after cataract surgery, unless other problems arise, such as macular degeneration or glaucoma. Learn more from Dr. Alaina Softing Hataye, a Mayo Clinic optometrist.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
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Orthostatic hypotension: An overview
Symptoms and causes of seborrheic dermatitis

HEALTHY RECIPES
Fresh tomato soup with crispy herb toasts
Chicken salad with Thai flavors
Warm coleslaw with honey dressing
Gazpacho with chickpeas

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Treat acne-prone skin with care
Excessive scrubbing or washing can irritate your skin and make acne worse. Using astringents and facial scrubs also can irritate acne. Instead, wash problem areas with a gentle cleanser. To dry excess oil, use an over-the-counter acne lotion that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

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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