Housecall: Thermometers 101 - just in time for cold and flu season

Housecall: Thermometers 101 — just in time for cold and flu season

By
Laurel Kelly

October 8, 2018

a sick young girl lying on a couch, with her father sitting next to her, holding a thermometer and feeling her forehead THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Thermometers: Understand the options
Are you ready for cold and flu season? A thermometer may come in handy, but choosing one that meets your family's needs can be confusing. Before you buy, understand the different types of thermometers and which might be best for you.

Whole grains: Hearty options for a healthy diet
All types of grains are good sources of complex carbohydrates, as well as some key vitamins and minerals. Whole grains are healthiest, and eating a variety can make your meals and snacks more interesting. If you're like most people, though, you're not getting enough whole grains. See how to make whole grains part of your healthy diet.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Are there risks with using melatonin for sleep?
Melatonin supplements can be helpful in treating sleep disorders and generally are safe for short-term use. There could be side effects, though, and melatonin supplements can interact with various medications. Learn more from Dr. Brent Bauer, director of Mayo Clinic's Complementary and Integrative Medicine Program.

Should I be concerned about discolored semen?
Semen is normally a whitish-gray color. Changes in semen color might be temporary and harmless, or a sign of an underlying condition that requires further evaluation. Learn more from Dr. Erik Castle, a Mayo Clinic urologist.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Senior health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition
Thrombocytosis
Rabies
Fitness tips for menopause: Why exercise counts

HEALTHY RECIPES
Roasted butternut squash fries
Cod with lemon and capers
Stuffed eggplant
Ambrosia with coconut and toasted almonds

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
5 ways to avoid secondhand smoke
You don't smoke because you understand the dangers, but what about smoke you inhale involuntarily? Consider these ways to protect yourself and those you love:

Don't allow smoking in your home.
Don't allow smoking in your vehicle.
Insist that smoking restrictions be enforced at work.
Choose smoke-free care facilities for children and aging loved ones.
Patronize businesses with no-smoking policies.

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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