• Monday’s Housecall

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THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES   Girl in a park using an asthma inhaler.
Asthma
For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.

Healthy Retirement
Whether you're still planning your retirement or you're ready to make the change, there's much you can do to ensure a healthy retirement. It helps to know that the equation is not just a financial one.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Hygiene
According to the hygiene hypothesis, childhood infections may help prevent asthma. People who grow up around pets or farm animals also seem to experience lower rates of asthma. But, the experts say, don't throw away your antibacterial soap just yet.

Ginkgo
Ginkgo biloba is thought to prevent memory loss, but study results suggest otherwise.

A skin scrape on a patient's arm.

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Bad cut? You may need a tetanus shot
Minor cuts and scrapes usually don't require medical attention. But if your wound is deep or dirty and your last tetanus shot was more than five years ago, ask your doctor about getting a tetanus booster. Get the booster as soon as possible after the injury.

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