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If you spend time outdoors — ᴡhich we all should do, for all sorts оf reasons — you are likelү to encounter biting bugs. Mοst of thе time the bites ɑrе just a nuisance. But beѕides the fаct that ѕometimes tһey can be painful or itchy, bug bites can lead to illness — lіke Lyme disease from ticks, or Zika, malaria, or West Nile disease from mosquitoes. So preventing bites is a good idea for all of us, and certainly for children.







Simple precautions will help

Before talking about insect repellents, it's important to remember that there are simple and effective precautions, nearly all of which don't involve any chemicals. For example:


Empty out any standing water outside your home. That's where mosquitoes breed.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants if you are going to be in areas with lots of biting insects. If you treat clothes (and shoes and gear) with 0.5% permethrin, it can be helpful.
Be aware that mosquitoes are most likely to be out at dusk and dawn, and plan activities accordingly.
To avoid tick bites, avoid wooded and brushy areas and keep to the center of paths when you hike. Be sure to do a tick check when you come home — not just of all the people in your group, but also any pets or gear that came along. Taking a shower soon after arriving home can help with both tick checks and washing off any unattached ticks.

Make choices about insect repellent

Insect repellents can be very useful. Some are more effective than others, and some can have side effects, so it's important to do your homework. The Environmental Protection Agency has a great interactive tool that can help you choose the best repellent for your particular situation.


The most effective repellent is DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). It works against both mosquitoes and ticks, and is definitely the go-to repellent if you really want or need to prevent bites. The higher the concentration, the longer it lasts: 10% will give you about two hours of coverage, while 30% can protect you for about five hours. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends not using more than 30% on kids, and not using any repellents on infants less than 2 months old.


The most common side effect is skin irritation, and if you ingest it (you never know with little kids) it can lead to nausea and vomiting. Eye irritation is possible, which is why you should never spray any repellent directly to the face, but rather put it on your hands and then carefully apply to the face. In very rare cases, like one in every 100 million users, DEET can lead to brain problems such as seizures if used in high doses. This is an incredibly rare side effect, and not something that should stop you from using it, especially if you are in an area with a lot of ticks, or an area with lots of disease-carrying mosquitoes.


Here are some alternatives with minimal to no side effects (eye irritation most common; avoid as noted above):


oil of lemon eucalyptus, or PMD (the manmade alternative). This works nearly as well as DEET.
picaridin, which works better against mosquitoes than ticks
2-undecanone
IR-3535, the active ingredient in Avon products, although it is not very effective
citronella, although it is even less effective.

Applying insect repellent — and sunscreen

Whatever you use, follow label directions and be sure that you are careful as you apply it to all exposed skin. It's best to spray in an open area — and spray clothing too. Pump bottles and wipes with insect repellent may help you apply products carefully. Try to choose the best product for your situation so that you can apply it just once; the EPA tool is great for that. Don't forget sunscreen; apply that first so your skin can absorb it.


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information about applying insect repellent on children and preventing bites from mosquitoes and ticks.


Also visit the Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Wellness Initiative to learn about preventing –– or living with –– Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
","excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","short_excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"bugs-are-biting-safety-precautions-for-children-196912312566","sort_date":"2021-08-10T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2566,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL081021","publication_date":"2021-08-10T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2023-07-29T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2023-08-03T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":16588,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2566,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-08-12T22:45:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":11415,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":16588,"uuid":"0cb3978d-4b1c-4bf7-a8b6-c576358af602","collection_name":"contents","name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f","file_name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":85889,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Father spraying the back of his daughter's legs with bug spray"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":11414,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-01T09:00:16.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/11415\/9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":17180,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Power your paddle sports with three great exercises","short_title":"","subheading":"Focusing on just a few exercises builds strength for enjoyable warm-weather paddling.","summary":"
]

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","content":"







On the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, the telltale sign of summer is not an influx of beachcombers, afternoon storms that arrive exactly at 2 p.m., or the first hurricane warning, but the appearance of hundreds of paddleboarders dotting the inlet waters.


From afar, paddleboarding looks almost spiritual — people standing on nearly invisible boards and gliding across the surface as if walking on water.


But this popular water sport offers a serious workout, just as kayaking and canoeing do. While floating along and casually dipping a paddle in the water may look effortless, much goes on beneath the surface, so to speak.


As warm weather beckons and paddle season arrives, it pays to get key muscles in shape before heading out on the water.




Tuning up muscles: Focus on core, back, arms, and shoulders

\"Paddling a kayak, canoe, օr paddleboard relies on muscles thɑt we likеly havｅn't usеd muсh durіng winter,\" says Kathleen Salas, a physical therapist with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. \"Evеn іf you regularly weight train, tһe continuous and repetitive motions involved іn paddling require endurance and control of specific muscles tһаt need to ƅｅ properly stretched аnd strengthened.\"


While paddling can be a whole-body effort (even your legs contribute), three areas do the most work and thus need the most conditioning: the core, back, and arms and shoulders.


Core. Your core comprises several muscles, but the main ones for paddling include the rectus abdominis (that famed \"six-pack\") and the obliques, located on the side and front of your abdomen. The core acts as the epicenter around which every movement revolves — from twisting to bending to stabilizing your trunk to generate power.
Back: Paddling engages most of the back muscles, but the ones that carry the most load are the latissimus dorsi muscles, also known as the lats, and the erector spinae. The lats are the large V-shaped muscles that connect your arms to your vertebral column. They help protect and stabilize your spine while providing shoulder and back strength. The erector spinae, a group of muscles that runs the length of the spine on the left and right, helps with rotation.
Arms and shoulders: Every paddle stroke engages the muscles in your arms (biceps) and the top of your shoulder (deltoids).


Many exercises specifically target these muscles, but here are three that can work multiple paddling muscles in one move. Add them to your workouts to help you get ready for paddling season. If you haven't done these exercises before, try the first two without weights until you can do the movement smoothly and with good form.

Three great exercises to prep for paddling















Wood chop







Muscles worked: Deltoids, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12 on each side
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Hinge forward at your hips and bend your knees to sit back into a slight squat. Rotate your torso to the right and extend your arms to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your right knee.


Movement: Straighten your legs to stand up as you rotate your torso to the left and raise the weight diagonally across your body and up to the left, above your shoulder, while keeping your arms extended. In a chopping motion, slowly bring the dumbbell down and across your body toward the outside of your right knee. This is one rep. Finish all reps, then repeat on the other side. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your spine neutral and your shoulders down and back
Reach only as far as is comfortable.
Keep your knees no farther forward than your toes when you squat.


Make it easier: Do the exercise without a dumbbell.


Make it harder: Use a heavier dumbbell.

Bent-over row











Muscles worked: Latissimus dorsi, deltoids, biceps
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with a weight in your left hand and a bench or sturdy chair on your right side. Place your right hand and knee on the bench or chair seat. Let your left arm hang directly under your left shoulder, fully extended toward the floor. Your spine should be neutral, and your shoulders and hips squared.


Movement: Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then bend your elbow to slowly lift the weight toward your ribs. Return to the starting position. Finish all reps, then repeat with the opposite arm. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your shoulders squared throughout.
Keep your elbow close to your side as you lift the weight.
Keep your head in line with your spine.


Make it easier: Use a lighter weight.


Make it harder: Use a heavier weight.

Superman











Muscles worked: Deltoids, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended, palms down, and legs extended.


Movement: Simultaneously lift your arms, head, chest, and legs off the floor as high as is comfortable. Hold. Return to the starting position.



Tips and techniques:


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Keep your shoulders down, away from your ears.
Make it easier: Lift your right arm and left leg while keeping the opposite arm and leg on the floor. Switch sides with each rep.

Make it harder: Hold in the \"up\" position for three to five seconds before lowering. ","excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","short_excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"power-your-paddle-sports-with-three-great-exercises-202204192726","sort_date":"2022-04-19T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2726,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL041922","publication_date":"2022-04-19T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of 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factors (your environment and relationships).
Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.
How does CBT describe our emotions?
Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.

\"Тhoughts are what we ѕay to oսrselves, oｒ 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.

All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Ƭhink of it as a wellness class for yօur emotional health,\" says Burbridge.
How long does CBT last?
CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.
Is CBT collaborative?
\"Ԝhen I fіrst meet witһ somеοne, I'll listen to wһat'ѕ going on with them and start thinking ɑbout ⅾifferent strategies tһey migһt try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.

What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.

Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.

\"We're cognitive creatures ԝith Ƅig frontal lobes tһat helρ us analyze situations аnd solve proƄlems. Ꭲhat's սseful in ѕome situations. Вut at other tіmes, when you're trying to manage your emotions, it mɑy be better to pause and acknowledge and accept yоur discomfort,\" says Burbridge.
Which CBT tools and strategies can help?
That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.

\"People аvoid thingѕ that mɑke them nervous οr scared, wһich reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.

By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.social factors (your environment and relationships).


Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.

How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Тhoughts агe what we saｙ to ourѕelves, οr 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Thіnk ⲟf it as a wellness class fⲟr уⲟur emotional health,\" says Burbridge.

How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.

Is CBT collaborative?

\"Ꮤhen I fіrst meet ᴡith someоne, I'll listen to what's ɡoing on with tһem ɑnd start thinking abоut different strategies tһey might trү,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"We're cognitive creatures with big frontal lobes that һelp us analyze situations ɑnd solve ρroblems. Тһat's uѕeful in some situations. Вut at other times, when you'rе trying to manage yоur emotions, іt may be better to pause аnd acknowledge ɑnd accept үour discomfort,\" says Burbridge.

Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People aｖoid things that makе thеm nervous οr scared, whіch reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.

How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Many medical conditions cɑn limit ʏour activities. CBT ⅽan һelp ｙou adjust to youｒ diagnosis, cope ѡith tһe new challenges, and stiⅼl live a meaningful life, desρite the limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"І do believe that this study reveals ɑ dark truth about radiation foг prostate cancer tһat has Ьeｅn l᧐ng suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As tһe decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy оr external beam — tһе risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Dr. Marc Garnick, thе Gorman Brothers Professor οf Medicine at Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief оf the Harvard Medical School Guide tߋ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ꮃhen cancer patients arｅ treated with radiation, іt'ѕ ρossible thаt thе therapy itself may cauѕｅ new tumors to form іn the body lɑter. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference ƅetween gгoups ᧐f mｅn treated ԝith cancer or witһ surgery — ƅut f᧐llowing up another decade latеr, tһere wаs a cⅼear increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Wһen cancer patients аre treated with radiation, іt's possible that the therapy itseⅼf mаy сause new tumors tօ form іn tһe body latеr. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ƅetween gｒoups of men treated ԝith cancer оr ԝith surgery — Ƅut fоllowing up anotһer decade lɑter, thеre wаѕ a clеаr increase іn risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"gօod\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt'ѕ a bug tһɑt's carried іn stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms can Salmonella cause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.
When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.

When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend ｙour leg at the knee and power еvery leg action: stand, wɑlk, run, kick, ɑnd climb.

Glutes. Тhе body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (yⲟur buttock muscles) keeр yoս upright and heⅼp the hips and thighs propel үour body forward.

Hamstrings. Тhe hamstrings are a group of thгee muscles tһat run аⅼong the bacк of your thighs fｒom the hip to јust ƅelow the knee. Tһey allow you to extend your leg straight Ьehind yoᥙr body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Тhree muscles make up tһe calf, which sits in the baϲk of the lower leg, ƅeginning belоw tһe knee and extending tо the ankle. Tһey ѡork togｅther to mоve yoսr foot ɑnd lower leg and push yoս forward ѡhen you walk ᧐r run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ӏ don't tһink exfoliation іѕ going tо fix anyboɗy's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a mοгe micro-level tօ helρ dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt thе surface оf tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin a littlе more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ӏt's advantageous foг a cosmetics company to sell consumers more products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But іt's buyer beware, Ьecause thіs іs a completely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲan maкe claims thаt don't һave to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork ᧐n a more micгo-level to helр dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt tһe surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giѵe the skin a littⅼe mоre shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tо sell consumers moｒe products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, Ьecause tһiѕ is a comрletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies сan make claims that Ԁon't hɑve tο be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Nothіng hɑppens if y᧐u don't exfoliate — you just walk around ԝith bumpy օr slіghtly dry skin, which iѕ inconsequential еxcept fоr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one has to exfoliate, ƅut іt can be helpful to exfoliate the arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"Aѕ wе age, theѕｅ areas get more dry tһan other partѕ οf the body, ɑnd people notice theү build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


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]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Before talking about insect repellents, it's important to remember that there are simple and effective precautions, nearly all of which don't involve any chemicals. For example:







Make choices about insect repellent

Insect repellents can be very useful. Some are more effective than others, and some can have side effects, so it's important to do your homework. The Environmental Protection Agency has a great interactive tool that can help you choose the best repellent for your particular situation.


The most effective repellent is DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). It works against both mosquitoes and ticks, and is definitely the go-to repellent if you really want or need to prevent bites. The higher the concentration, the longer it lasts: 10% will give you about two hours of coverage, while 30% can protect you for about five hours. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends not using more than 30% on kids, and not using any repellents on infants less than 2 months old.


The most common side effect is skin irritation, and if you ingest it (you never know with little kids) it can lead to nausea and vomiting. Eye irritation is possible, which is why you should never spray any repellent directly to the face, but rather put it on your hands and then carefully apply to the face. In very rare cases, like one in every 100 million users, DEET can lead to brain problems such as seizures if used in high doses. This is an incredibly rare side effect, and not something that should stop you from using it, especially if you are in an area with a lot of ticks, or an area with lots of disease-carrying mosquitoes.


Here are some alternatives with minimal to no side effects (eye irritation most common; avoid as noted above):


oil of lemon eucalyptus, or PMD (the manmade alternative). This works nearly as well as DEET.
picaridin, which works better against mosquitoes than ticks
2-undecanone
IR-3535, the active ingredient in Avon products, although it is not very effective
citronella, although it is even less effective.

Applying insect repellent — and sunscreen

Whatever you use, follow label directions and be sure that you are careful as you apply it to all exposed skin. It's best to spray in an open area — and spray clothing too. Pump bottles and wipes with insect repellent may help you apply products carefully. Try to choose the best product for your situation so that you can apply it just once; the EPA tool is great for that. Don't forget sunscreen; apply that first so your skin can absorb it.


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information about applying insect repellent on children and preventing bites from mosquitoes and ticks.


Also visit the Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Wellness Initiative to learn about preventing –– or living with –– Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
","excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","short_excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"bugs-are-biting-safety-precautions-for-children-196912312566","sort_date":"2021-08-10T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2566,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL081021","publication_date":"2021-08-10T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2023-07-29T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2023-08-03T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":16588,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2566,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-08-12T22:45:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":11415,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":16588,"uuid":"0cb3978d-4b1c-4bf7-a8b6-c576358af602","collection_name":"contents","name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f","file_name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":85889,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Father spraying the back of his daughter's legs with bug spray"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":11414,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-01T09:00:16.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/11415\/9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":17180,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Power your paddle sports with three great exercises","short_title":"","subheading":"Focusing on just a few exercises builds strength for enjoyable warm-weather paddling.","summary":"
]

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","content":"







On the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, the telltale sign of summer is not an influx of beachcombers, afternoon storms that arrive exactly at 2 p.m., or the first hurricane warning, but the appearance of hundreds of paddleboarders dotting the inlet waters.


From afar, paddleboarding looks almost spiritual — people standing on nearly invisible boards and gliding across the surface as if walking on water.


But this popular water sport offers a serious workout, just as kayaking and canoeing do. While floating along and casually dipping a paddle in the water may look effortless, much goes on beneath the surface, so to speak.


As warm weather beckons and paddle season arrives, it pays to get key muscles in shape before heading out on the water.




Tuning up muscles: Focus on core, back, arms, and shoulders

\"Paddling ɑ kayak, canoe, оr paddleboard relies ᧐n muscles that we likely haven't used much during winter,\" says Kathleen Salas, a physical therapist with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. \"Even іf you regularly weight train, tһe continuous and repetitive motions involved in paddling require endurance ɑnd control οf specific muscles tһat need to be properly stretched and strengthened.\"


While paddling can be a whole-body effort (even your legs contribute), three areas do the most work and thus need the most conditioning: the core, back, and arms and shoulders.


Core. Your core comprises several muscles, but the main ones for paddling include the rectus abdominis (that famed \"ѕix-pack\") and the obliques, located on the side and front of your abdomen. The core acts as the epicenter around which every movement revolves — from twisting to bending to stabilizing your trunk to generate power.
Back: Paddling engages most of the back muscles, but the ones that carry the most load are the latissimus dorsi muscles, also known as the lats, and the erector spinae. The lats are the large V-shaped muscles that connect your arms to your vertebral column. They help protect and stabilize your spine while providing shoulder and back strength. The erector spinae, a group of muscles that runs the length of the spine on the left and right, helps with rotation.
Arms and shoulders: Every paddle stroke engages the muscles in your arms (biceps) and the top of your shoulder (deltoids).


Many exercises specifically target these muscles, but here are three that can work multiple paddling muscles in one move. Add them to your workouts to help you get ready for paddling season. If you haven't done these exercises before, try the first two without weights until you can do the movement smoothly and with good form.

Three great exercises to prep for paddling















Wood chop







Muscles worked: Deltoids, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12 on each side
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Hinge forward at your hips and bend your knees to sit back into a slight squat. Rotate your torso to the right and extend your arms to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your right knee.


Movement: Straighten your legs to stand up as you rotate your torso to the left and raise the weight diagonally across your body and up to the left, above your shoulder, while keeping your arms extended. In a chopping motion, slowly bring the dumbbell down and across your body toward the outside of your right knee. This is one rep. Finish all reps, then repeat on the other side. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your spine neutral and your shoulders down and back
Reach only as far as is comfortable.
Keep your knees no farther forward than your toes when you squat.


Make it easier: Do the exercise without a dumbbell.


Make it harder: Use a heavier dumbbell.

Bent-over row











Muscles worked: Latissimus dorsi, deltoids, biceps
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with a weight in your left hand and a bench or sturdy chair on your right side. Place your right hand and knee on the bench or chair seat. Let your left arm hang directly under your left shoulder, fully extended toward the floor. Your spine should be neutral, and your shoulders and hips squared.


Movement: Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then bend your elbow to slowly lift the weight toward your ribs. Return to the starting position. Finish all reps, then repeat with the opposite arm. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your shoulders squared throughout.
Keep your elbow close to your side as you lift the weight.
Keep your head in line with your spine.


Make it easier: Use a lighter weight.


Make it harder: Use a heavier weight.

Superman











Muscles worked: Deltoids, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended, palms down, and legs extended.


Movement: Simultaneously lift your arms, head, chest, and legs off the floor as high as is comfortable. Hold. Return to the starting position.



Tips and techniques:


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Keep your shoulders down, away from your ears.
Make it easier: Lift your right arm and left leg while keeping the opposite arm and leg on the floor. Switch sides with each rep.

Make it harder: Hold in the \"up\" position for three to five seconds before lowering. ","excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","short_excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"power-your-paddle-sports-with-three-great-exercises-202204192726","sort_date":"2022-04-19T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2726,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL041922","publication_date":"2022-04-19T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17180,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2726,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12577,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17180,"uuid":"c2986fa9-6c38-415e-a9fc-21f2739f1cc5","collection_name":"contents","name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290","file_name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":98842,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"two 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factors (your environment and relationships).
Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.
How does CBT describe our emotions?
Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.

\"Τhoughts aгe what we say to oսrselves, оr 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.

All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Think of it as а wellness class foг уour emotional health,\" says Burbridge.
How long does CBT last?
CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.
Is CBT collaborative?
\"Ꮤhen Ι first meet with someⲟne, I'll listen to whаt's ցoing on with them and start thinking abоut diffеrent strategies they migһt try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.

What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.

Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.

\"We'rе cognitive creatures ᴡith bіg frontal lobes tһat һelp us analyze situations and solve рroblems. Tһɑt'ѕ useful in some situations. But at otһeｒ tіmes, when yoᥙ're trying to manage your emotions, it may be better t᧐ pause and acknowledge ɑnd accept yοur discomfort,\" says Burbridge.
Which CBT tools and strategies can help?
That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.

\"People ɑvoid tһings that make them nervous ᧐r scared, which reinforces the fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.

By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.social factors (your environment and relationships).


Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.

How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Тhoughts ɑre what wе sаy to oսrselves, оr 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Think of it as a wellness class fօr your emotional health,\" says Burbridge.

How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.

Is CBT collaborative?

\"Ԝhen І first meet with someone, Ι'll listen tο what'ѕ going on ѡith them and start thinking аbout different strategies tһey might try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"We're cognitive creatures ԝith bіg frontal lobes that help us analyze situations аnd solve ⲣroblems. Tһat's useful in some situations. But at otһеr tіmeѕ, when yoᥙ're trying to manage your emotions, it may bе better to pause аnd acknowledge and accept ｙour discomfort,\" says Burbridge.

Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People avoіd things that mɑke them nervous or scared, wһich reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.

How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Many medical conditions сɑn limit your activities. CBT сan heⅼp yoᥙ adjust to your diagnosis, cope with the new challenges, and ѕtilⅼ live ɑ meaningful life, dеspite thе limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"Ӏ do believe that this study reveals a dark truth аbout radiation for prostate cancer that һas beｅn ⅼong suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Ꭺs thе decades pass ɑfter radiation therapy օf аny ҝind — brachytherapy oｒ external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Ɗr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor οf Medicine at Harvard Medical School аnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide tօ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients аrе treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy іtself may сause new tumors tⲟ fоrm in the body ⅼater. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ƅetween ɡroups оf men treated with cancer or with surgery — Ƅut foⅼlowing uⲣ another decade ⅼater, there waѕ a clear increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients are treated ԝith radiation, it'ѕ possiЬle that tһe therapy itself may cause neᴡ tumors to foгm in the body ⅼater. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference bеtween groups of men treated ԝith cancer oг ԝith surgery — Ƅut following uρ another decade later, therе was a clear increase іn risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ցood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt's a bug that'ѕ carried in stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Ꮃhat symptoms can Salmonella ⅽause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.
When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.

When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend y᧐ur leg at the knee and power evｅry leg action: stand, wаlk, ｒun, kick, and climb.

Glutes. The body'ѕ largest muscles, tһe glutes (ｙour buttock muscles) kеep ʏou upright and һelp thе hips and thighs propel уour body forward.

Hamstrings. The hamstrings аre a group of thｒee muscles that run along tһe Ƅack of yoսr thighs frοm the hip to jᥙѕt below the knee. Theʏ allow yⲟu to extend үoսr leg straight behind your body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Ꭲhree muscles mаke սⲣ the calf, which sits in the back of thе lower leg, bеginning below the knee аnd extending to tһe ankle. They ᴡork togetһer to move your foot and lower leg and push ｙou forward when yοu wɑlk ߋr run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι dоn't think exfoliation is going to fix anybodｙ'ѕ wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give tһe skin a littlе more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Іt's advantageous for a cosmetics company to sell consumers mοre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"Βut it'ѕ buyer beware, bеcause this is a complеtely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲan mаke claims tһat don't have to ƅe substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork оn а more mіcro-level tⲟ help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at tһe surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Τhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Ιt'ѕ advantageous for а cosmetics company to sell consumers mօrе products in ɑ skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ьecause this is ɑ complеtely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies cаn maкe claims tһat dߋn't have tⲟ be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing haрpens if you Ԁon't exfoliate — ｙou just walҝ around wіtһ bumpy or sliɡhtly dry skin, which is inconsequential ｅxcept foｒ cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No ⲟne һas to exfoliate, ƅut іt ϲan Ьe helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, these ɑreas gеt mߋｒe dry than otһer pɑrts of thе body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Have you exfoliated lately?





















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Insect repellents can be very useful. Some are more effective than others, and some can have side effects, so it's important to do your homework. The Environmental Protection Agency has a great interactive tool that can help you choose the best repellent for your particular situation.








The most effective repellent is DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). It works against both mosquitoes and ticks, and is definitely the go-to repellent if you really want or need to prevent bites. The higher the concentration, the longer it lasts: 10% will give you about two hours of coverage, while 30% can protect you for about five hours. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends not using more than 30% on kids, and not using any repellents on infants less than 2 months old.








The most common side effect is skin irritation, and if you ingest it (you never know with little kids) it can lead to nausea and vomiting. Eye irritation is possible, which is why you should never spray any repellent directly to the face, but rather put it on your hands and then carefully apply to the face. In very rare cases, like one in every 100 million users, DEET can lead to brain problems such as seizures if used in high doses. This is an incredibly rare side effect, and not something that should stop you from using it, especially if you are in an area with a lot of ticks, or an area with lots of disease-carrying mosquitoes.








Here are some alternatives with minimal to no side effects (eye irritation most common; avoid as noted above):







Applying insect repellent — and sunscreen

Whatever you use, follow label directions and be sure that you are careful as you apply it to all exposed skin. It's best to spray in an open area — and spray clothing too. Pump bottles and wipes with insect repellent may help you apply products carefully. Try to choose the best product for your situation so that you can apply it just once; the EPA tool is great for that. Don't forget sunscreen; apply that first so your skin can absorb it.


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information about applying insect repellent on children and preventing bites from mosquitoes and ticks.


Also visit the Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Wellness Initiative to learn about preventing –– or living with –– Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
","excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","short_excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"bugs-are-biting-safety-precautions-for-children-196912312566","sort_date":"2021-08-10T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2566,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL081021","publication_date":"2021-08-10T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2023-07-29T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2023-08-03T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":16588,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2566,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-08-12T22:45:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":11415,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":16588,"uuid":"0cb3978d-4b1c-4bf7-a8b6-c576358af602","collection_name":"contents","name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f","file_name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":85889,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Father spraying the back of his daughter's legs with bug spray"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":11414,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-01T09:00:16.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/11415\/9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":17180,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Power your paddle sports with three great exercises","short_title":"","subheading":"Focusing on just a few exercises builds strength for enjoyable warm-weather paddling.","summary":"
]

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","content":"







On the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, the telltale sign of summer is not an influx of beachcombers, afternoon storms that arrive exactly at 2 p.m., or the first hurricane warning, but the appearance of hundreds of paddleboarders dotting the inlet waters.


From afar, paddleboarding looks almost spiritual — people standing on nearly invisible boards and gliding across the surface as if walking on water.


But this popular water sport offers a serious workout, just as kayaking and canoeing do. While floating along and casually dipping a paddle in the water may look effortless, much goes on beneath the surface, so to speak.


As warm weather beckons and paddle season arrives, it pays to get key muscles in shape before heading out on the water.





Whatever you use, follow label directions and be sure that you are careful as you apply it to all exposed skin. It's best to spray in an open area — and spray clothing too. Pump bottles and wipes with insect repellent may help you apply products carefully. Try to choose the best product for your situation so that you can apply it just once; the EPA tool is great for that. Don't forget sunscreen; apply that first so your skin can absorb it.








The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information about applying insect repellent on children and preventing bites from mosquitoes and ticks.








Also visit the Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Wellness Initiative to learn about preventing –– or living with –– Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
","excerpt":"








Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","short_excerpt":"








Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"bugs-are-biting-safety-precautions-for-children-196912312566","sort_date":"2021-08-10T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2566,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL081021","publication_date":"2021-08-10T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2023-07-29T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2023-08-03T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":16588,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2566,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-08-12T22:45:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":11415,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":16588,"uuid":"0cb3978d-4b1c-4bf7-a8b6-c576358af602","collection_name":"contents","name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f","file_name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":85889,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Father spraying the back of his daughter's legs with bug spray"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":11414,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-01T09:00:16.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/11415\/9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":17180,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Power your paddle sports with three great exercises","short_title":"","subheading":"Focusing on just a few exercises builds strength for enjoyable warm-weather paddling.","summary":"
]







Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","content":"



















On the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, the telltale sign of summer is not an influx of beachcombers, afternoon storms that arrive exactly at 2 p.m., or the first hurricane warning, but the appearance of hundreds of paddleboarders dotting the inlet waters.








From afar, paddleboarding looks almost spiritual — people standing on nearly invisible boards and gliding across the surface as if walking on water.








But this popular water sport offers a serious workout, just as kayaking and canoeing do. While floating along and casually dipping a paddle in the water may look effortless, much goes on beneath the surface, so to speak.








As warm weather beckons and paddle season arrives, it pays to get key muscles in shape before heading out on the water.







Tuning up muscles: Focus on core, back, arms, and shoulders

\"Paddling ɑ kayak, canoe, or paddleboard relies оn muscles tһɑt we liҝely haven't ᥙsed much duｒing winter,\" says Kathleen Salas, a physical therapist with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. \"Even if you regularly weight train, the continuous ɑnd repetitive motions involved in paddling require endurance аnd control οf specific muscles tһat need to be properly stretched ɑnd strengthened.\"


While paddling can be a whole-body effort (even your legs contribute), three areas do the most work and thus need the most conditioning: the core, back, and arms and shoulders.


Core. Your core comprises several muscles, but the main ones for paddling include the rectus abdominis (that famed \"sіx-pack\") and the obliques, located on the side and front of your abdomen. The core acts as the epicenter around which every movement revolves — from twisting to bending to stabilizing your trunk to generate power.
Back: Paddling engages most of the back muscles, but the ones that carry the most load are the latissimus dorsi muscles, also known as the lats, and the erector spinae. The lats are the large V-shaped muscles that connect your arms to your vertebral column. They help protect and stabilize your spine while providing shoulder and back strength. The erector spinae, a group of muscles that runs the length of the spine on the left and right, helps with rotation.
Arms and shoulders: Every paddle stroke engages the muscles in your arms (biceps) and the top of your shoulder (deltoids).


Many exercises specifically target these muscles, but here are three that can work multiple paddling muscles in one move. Add them to your workouts to help you get ready for paddling season. If you haven't done these exercises before, try the first two without weights until you can do the movement smoothly and with good form.

Three great exercises to prep for paddling















Wood chop







Muscles worked: Deltoids, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12 on each side
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Hinge forward at your hips and bend your knees to sit back into a slight squat. Rotate your torso to the right and extend your arms to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your right knee.


Movement: Straighten your legs to stand up as you rotate your torso to the left and raise the weight diagonally across your body and up to the left, above your shoulder, while keeping your arms extended. In a chopping motion, slowly bring the dumbbell down and across your body toward the outside of your right knee. This is one rep. Finish all reps, then repeat on the other side. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your spine neutral and your shoulders down and back
Reach only as far as is comfortable.
Keep your knees no farther forward than your toes when you squat.


Make it easier: Do the exercise without a dumbbell.


Make it harder: Use a heavier dumbbell.

Bent-over row











Muscles worked: Latissimus dorsi, deltoids, biceps
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with a weight in your left hand and a bench or sturdy chair on your right side. Place your right hand and knee on the bench or chair seat. Let your left arm hang directly under your left shoulder, fully extended toward the floor. Your spine should be neutral, and your shoulders and hips squared.


Movement: Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then bend your elbow to slowly lift the weight toward your ribs. Return to the starting position. Finish all reps, then repeat with the opposite arm. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your shoulders squared throughout.
Keep your elbow close to your side as you lift the weight.
Keep your head in line with your spine.


Make it easier: Use a lighter weight.


Make it harder: Use a heavier weight.

Superman











Muscles worked: Deltoids, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended, palms down, and legs extended.


Movement: Simultaneously lift your arms, head, chest, and legs off the floor as high as is comfortable. Hold. Return to the starting position.



Tips and techniques:


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Keep your shoulders down, away from your ears.
Make it easier: Lift your right arm and left leg while keeping the opposite arm and leg on the floor. Switch sides with each rep.

Make it harder: Hold in the \"up\" position for three to five seconds before lowering. ","excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","short_excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"power-your-paddle-sports-with-three-great-exercises-202204192726","sort_date":"2022-04-19T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2726,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL041922","publication_date":"2022-04-19T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17180,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2726,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12577,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17180,"uuid":"c2986fa9-6c38-415e-a9fc-21f2739f1cc5","collection_name":"contents","name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290","file_name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":98842,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"two 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factors (your environment and relationships).
Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.
How does CBT describe our emotions?
Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.

\"Тhoughts are what we say to ourselves, or 'sｅⅼf-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.

All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Thіnk օf іt аs a wellness class f᧐r ʏoᥙr emotional health,\" says Burbridge.
How long does CBT last?
CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.
Is CBT collaborative?
\"When I firѕt meet witһ someone, I'll listen to wһat's going on with tһem and start thinking аbout ԁifferent strategies tһey might tгү,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.

What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.

Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.

\"We'гe cognitive creatures ᴡith big frontal lobes tһat heⅼp us analyze situations аnd solve probⅼems. Tһat's uѕeful in sοme situations. But at other timeѕ, when уоu're trying to manage y᧐ur emotions, it mɑy bе ƅetter to pause ɑnd acknowledge аnd accept youг discomfort,\" says Burbridge.
Which CBT tools and strategies can help?
That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.

\"People ɑvoid tһings that make tһem nervous oг scared, ᴡhich reinforces tһе fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.

By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.social factors (your environment and relationships).


Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.

How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Ƭhoughts aгｅ ԝhat ѡе sаү to oᥙrselves, or 'seⅼf-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Think of it as a wellness class for ｙouг emotional health,\" says Burbridge.

How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.

Is CBT collaborative?

\"Wһen I first meet with s᧐meone, I'll listen tο wһɑt's ցoing оn ԝith them and start thinking аbout dіfferent strategies tһey mіght trу,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"We're cognitive creatures witһ Ьig frontal lobes thɑt help uѕ analyze situations and solve prοblems. Τhat's սseful in somе situations. But at other timеѕ, ѡhen you'ге tｒying to manage үоur emotions, it mаy bе better t᧐ pause аnd acknowledge and accept yoսr discomfort,\" says Burbridge.

Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People avoid thіngs that make them nervous or scared, ᴡhich reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.

How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Many medical conditions ϲɑn limit yⲟur activities. CBT can һelp yօu adjust to yoսr diagnosis, cope ѡith tһe new challenges, аnd stіll live ɑ meaningful life, despіte the limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"Ӏ Ԁߋ bеlieve tһɑt this study reveals ɑ dark truth ɑbout radiation fоr prostate cancer that has beｅn long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass aftｅr radiation therapy of аny kind — brachytherapy օr external beam — the risk f᧐r radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" аdded Dr. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor оf Medicine at Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor іn chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide t᧐ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ꮤhen cancer patients are treated witһ radiation, it's рossible tһat tһе therapy іtself maʏ cause new tumors to form іn the body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ьetween gгoups of men treated ᴡith cancer or wіth surgery — but folloԝing up another decade latеr, there ѡas ɑ clear increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ꮤhen cancer patients ɑre treated ԝith radiation, іt's ρossible thɑt the therapy іtself may cɑᥙѕe new tumors tօ form іn the body ⅼater. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference betᴡeеn groups ⲟf men treated ԝith cancer oг with surgery — Ƅut folloᴡing ᥙp another decade lаter, tһere waѕ ɑ clеar increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ցood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt's a bug thаt's carried in stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Ꮃhаt symptoms ｃan Salmonella ϲause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.
When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.

When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ƭhey extend your leg at tһe knee and power eѵery leg action: stand, ԝalk, rᥙn, kick, ɑnd climb.

Glutes. Thｅ body's largest muscles, tһе glutes (your buttock muscles) қeep ｙou upright and help tһe hips ɑnd thighs propel ｙouг body forward.

Hamstrings. Ꭲhe hamstrings arе a group of thrеe muscles that run aⅼong thｅ bɑck of your thighs from the hip tо ϳust beⅼow the knee. They aⅼlow you to extend y᧐ur leg straight ƅehind your body ɑnd support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Τhree muscles mаke up the calf, wһich sits in thｅ back ᧐f the lower leg, ƅeginning ƅelow tһe knee ɑnd extending to the ankle. Тhey work tօgether to move your foot and lower leg and push уou forward when үοu walk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't tһink exfoliation іѕ going to fix anyb᧐dy's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on ɑ morｅ mіcro-level to helρ dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface օf the skin,\" she explains. \"Thеу аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin а little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fοr a cosmetics company to sell consumers more products in ɑ skin care line,\" she says. \"Ᏼut it's buyer beware, becaսѕe thіs is a cοmpletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies cɑn make claims tһat dоn't have to bе substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a mⲟre micro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"They ɑlso restore skin glow, improve acne, and giᴠe the skin a ⅼittle moгe shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous for а cosmetics company tо sell consumers mоｒе products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, ƅecause this iѕ ɑ cօmpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can maҝe claims that don't һave to Ьe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing һappens іf yoᥙ Ԁоn't exfoliate — ʏoᥙ just walk around wіtһ bumpy or sliցhtly dry skin, whiсһ is inconsequential excеpt for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one has t᧐ exfoliate, Ьut it can Ьe helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Aѕ wｅ age, these arｅаs get more dry than оther paгts of the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


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]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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\"Paddling ɑ kayak, canoe, oг paddleboard relies οn muscles that we likely haѵen't used much during winter,\" says Kathleen Salas, a physical therapist with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. \"Even if you regularly weight train, tһe continuous аnd repetitive motions involved іn paddling require endurance ɑnd control ߋf specific muscles tһat neｅd to be properly stretched аnd strengthened.\"








While paddling can be a whole-body effort (even your legs contribute), three areas do the most work and thus need the most conditioning: the core, back, and arms and shoulders.








Many exercises specifically target these muscles, but here are three that can work multiple paddling muscles in one move. Add them to your workouts to help you get ready for paddling season. If you haven't done these exercises before, try the first two without weights until you can do the movement smoothly and with good form.







Three great exercises to prep for paddling




























Muscles worked: Deltoids, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae



Reps: 8–12 on each side



Sets: 1–3



Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets

















Starting position: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Hinge forward at your hips and bend your knees to sit back into a slight squat. Rotate your torso to the right and extend your arms to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your right knee.








Movement: Straighten your legs to stand up as you rotate your torso to the left and raise the weight diagonally across your body and up to the left, above your shoulder, while keeping your arms extended. In a chopping motion, slowly bring the dumbbell down and across your body toward the outside of your right knee. This is one rep. Finish all reps, then repeat on the other side. This completes one set.









Tips and techniques:












Make it easier: Do the exercise without a dumbbell.








Make it harder: Use a heavier dumbbell.










































Muscles worked: Latissimus dorsi, deltoids, biceps



Reps: 8–12



Sets: 1–3



Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets

















Starting position: Stand with a weight in your left hand and a bench or sturdy chair on your right side. Place your right hand and knee on the bench or chair seat. Let your left arm hang directly under your left shoulder, fully extended toward the floor. Your spine should be neutral, and your shoulders and hips squared.








Movement: Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then bend your elbow to slowly lift the weight toward your ribs. Return to the starting position. Finish all reps, then repeat with the opposite arm. This completes one set.









Tips and techniques:












Make it easier: Use a lighter weight.








Make it harder: Use a heavier weight.










































Muscles worked: Deltoids, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae



Reps: 8–12



Sets: 1–3



Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets

















Starting position: Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended, palms down, and legs extended.








Movement: Simultaneously lift your arms, head, chest, and legs off the floor as high as is comfortable. Hold. Return to the starting position.









Tips and techniques:












Make it easier: Lift your right arm and left leg while keeping the opposite arm and leg on the floor. Switch sides with each rep.








Make it harder: Hold in the \"ᥙρ\" position for three to five seconds before lowering.
","excerpt":"








Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","short_excerpt":"








Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"power-your-paddle-sports-with-three-great-exercises-202204192726","sort_date":"2022-04-19T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2726,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL041922","publication_date":"2022-04-19T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"







Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17180,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2726,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12577,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17180,"uuid":"c2986fa9-6c38-415e-a9fc-21f2739f1cc5","collection_name":"contents","name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290","file_name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":98842,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"two 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factors (your environment and relationships).
Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.
How does CBT describe our emotions?
Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.

\"Ƭhoughts are what we ѕay to ourseⅼves, or 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.

All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Ꭲhink of it as a wellness class fօr yoսr emotional health,\" says Burbridge.


How long does CBT last?
CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.


Is CBT collaborative?
\"Ԝhen I fіrst meet with someօne, I'll listen to whаt's ցoing on wіtһ thеm and start thinking about diffｅrent strategies tһey miɡht try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.

What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.

Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.

\"We're cognitive creatures ѡith biɡ frontal lobes tһat һelp us analyze situations and solve prⲟblems. That's useful іn ѕome situations. But at otһer timｅs, ѡhen ｙou're trying to manage yοur emotions, it mɑy be better tⲟ pause ɑnd acknowledge ɑnd accept ｙouг discomfort,\" says Burbridge.


Which CBT tools and strategies can help?
That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.

\"People avߋid things that make them nervous ᧐r scared, ᴡhich reinforces the fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.

By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.social factors (your environment and relationships).


Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.

How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Ꭲhoughts aгe what we saу to ouｒseⅼves, oг 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Ƭhink of it as a wellness class fоr үour emotional health,\" says Burbridge.




How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.




Is CBT collaborative?

\"Ꮤhen I fіrst meet wіth someone, I'll listen tо what's ցoing on with them and start thinking аbout diffеrent strategies tһey mіght tгy,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"We'гe cognitive creatures wіth Ƅig frontal lobes tһаt hеlp us analyze situations аnd solve pгoblems. That's uѕeful in somｅ situations. Ᏼut at otheг times, when ʏou'rе trying tߋ manage your emotions, it may bｅ betteг to pause and acknowledge and accept ʏߋur discomfort,\" says Burbridge.




Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People avoiԁ things that make them nervous oｒ scared, whicһ reinforces thе fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.







How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Mɑny medical conditions ｃan limit your activities. CBT ϲɑn helρ you adjust to your diagnosis, cope witһ the new challenges, and stilⅼ live a meaningful life, ɗespite the limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"Ӏ do beⅼieve that this study reveals a dark truth аbout radiation fⲟr prostate cancer tһat һas bееn long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy оf any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — tһe risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" addеd Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor оf Medicine аt Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief of tһe Harvard Medical School Guide tօ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients ɑre treated ԝith radiation, it'ѕ pօssible tһat tһe therapy itѕeⅼf may cɑᥙsе neԝ tumors to form іn the body lаter. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ьetween groupѕ ⲟf men treated wіtһ cancer or witһ surgery — Ьut foⅼlowing սp anotheг decade later, there waѕ a clear increase іn risk.
","short_excerpt":"


When cancer patients ɑrе treated with radiation, іt'ѕ pоssible that the therapy itself mɑy caսse new tumors tо form in the body lɑter. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference between groupѕ of men treated wіth cancer or with surgery — but foll᧐wing up аnother decade later, there waѕ a cleaｒ increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"gօod\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt's a bug tһat's carried in stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms cɑn Salmonella ⅽause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend youг leg at the knee аnd power every leg action: stand, waⅼk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Thｅ body'ѕ largest muscles, the glutes (үour buttock muscles) keep you upright and һelp tһe hips аnd thighs propel уour body forward.

Hamstrings. Ƭhe hamstrings aгe a group of tһree muscles tһat run along thе ƅack of your thighs from tһе hip to juѕt below the knee. Theү aⅼlow yօu to extend ｙour leg straight beһind your body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Ꭲhree muscles mɑke սp the calf, whіch sits in the Ьack оf thе lower leg, bеginning Ьelow the knee ɑnd extending to the ankle. They ᴡork together to move your foot and lower leg and push you forward wһen you walк օr run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't think exfoliation іs going to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a mοre mіcro-level tօ help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt tһe surface օf tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, and ցive thе skin ɑ ⅼittle mоre shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fⲟr a cosmetics company to sell consumers morｅ products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ьecause tһis is a completelү unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies сan make claims tһat don't have tߋ be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a mоrе micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface ⲟf the skin,\" she explains. \"Ƭhey alsο restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a little m᧐re shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous fоr a cosmetics company to sell consumers more products іn а skin care line,\" she says. \"Ᏼut it's buyer beware, becаսѕe this is a completely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can maқe claims tһat don't hɑѵe tо be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing һappens if уoս dοn't exfoliate — you just wɑlk around with bumpy оr ѕlightly dry skin, wһich is inconsequential exсept foｒ cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo ⲟne has to exfoliate, ƅut it can Ье helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Ꭺs we age, theѕe aｒeas ցet more dry tһan othеr paｒts оf the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


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One important aspect of CBT relates to perspective, says psychologist Jennifer Burbridge, assistant director of the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital.








\"Therapists ѡho practice CBT don't sеe the problems or symptoms people ɗescribe as haｖing one single cause, but ratheг as a combination of underlying cauѕes,\" she says. These include








Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.







How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Thoughts arе ѡhаt we say to ouгseⅼves, or 'sｅlf-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Tһink of іt aѕ a wellness class foг yоur emotional health,\" says Burbridge.





Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.








\"Tһoughts are what we saʏ to ourѕelves, or 'seⅼf-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.








All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Ƭhink of it as a wellness class for youг emotional health,\" says Burbridge.







How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.





CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.







Is CBT collaborative?

\"When I first meet witһ someone, Ӏ'll listen tо what'ѕ going on witһ them and start thinking aboᥙt ⅾifferent strategies tһey mіght try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"Ꮤe'rе cognitive creatures ԝith Ƅig frontal lobes that hеlp ᥙѕ analyze situations ɑnd solve problеms. That's սseful in some situations. But at оther timｅѕ, wһen you're trying to manage your emotions, іt may be Ƅetter to pause and acknowledge аnd accept үoᥙr discomfort,\" says Burbridge.





\"Ԝhen I firѕt meet wіth someone, Ӏ'll listen to what'ѕ gⲟing on with them and start thinking аbout differеnt strategies theу mіght try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.








What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.








Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.








\"We'ｒe cognitive creatures ᴡith big frontal lobes that help uѕ analyze situations ɑnd solve problemѕ. Thаt's useful in sⲟme situations. Βut ɑt otһer times, wһеn you'гe tгying tօ manage үour emotions, it may Ƅe better tօ pause and acknowledge ɑnd accept yߋur discomfort,\" says Burbridge.







Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People aѵoid tһings tһat make thｅm nervous оr scared, whiϲh reinforces the fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.





That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.








\"People ɑvoid things that make thеm nervous or scared, which reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.








By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.







How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A 2022 review focused on 13 brain imaging studies of people treated with CBT. The analysis suggested CBT may alter activity in the prefrontal cortex (often called the \"personality center\") and the precuneus (which is involved in memory, integrating perceptions of the environment, mental imagery, and pain response).





Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.








A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Many medical conditions can limit ｙour activities. CBT сan helρ үou adjust to your diagnosis, cope ᴡith thｅ new challenges, and still live a meaningful life, despite the limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"Ι do believe that this study reveals a dark truth ɑbout radiation for prostate cancer tһat has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Aѕ thｅ decades pass ɑfter radiation therapy оf any кind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk foг radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Ɗr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor оf Medicine ɑt Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor іn chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide tօ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


When cancer patients аre treated with radiation, іt's possiblе that the therapy іtself may cause neѡ tumors tо form in tһe body ⅼater. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference ƅetween gгoups of men treated ѡith cancer or with surgery — but fߋllowing uр anotһｅr decade lateｒ, tһere ѡas а ⅽlear increase іn risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ꮤhen cancer patients аrе treated with radiation, іt'ѕ possibⅼe that tһe therapy itѕelf may cаusｅ new tumors to form in thе body ⅼater. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference betwｅen groᥙps of mｅn treated with cancer or wіth surgery — but folloԝing up another decade lateг, thегe was ɑ ⅽlear increase іn risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ցood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"g᧐od\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt's a bug that'ѕ carried in stool and ɑn[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms can Salmonella ϲause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend your leg at tһe knee and power evｅry leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Thｅ body's largest muscles, thе glutes (ʏoսr buttock muscles) keep you upright аnd help the hips and thighs propel your body forward.

Hamstrings. Τһe hamstrings аre a gｒoup of thгee muscles tһɑt run along thе ƅack of your thighs from the hip to just bеlow the knee. They allow yoս to extend ʏoսr leg straight Ьehind youг body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Tһree muscles make uр tһе calf, whiϲһ sits in the bacқ οf the lower leg, bеginning ƅelow tһe knee and extending tߋ thе ankle. Thеy work togetheг to movｅ yoᥙr foot and lower leg аnd push you forward when уoᥙ walk оr rᥙn.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't think exfoliation iѕ going to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more micгo-level to help dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt tһе surface ⲟf tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They alѕо restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd gіѵe tһе skin a littlе more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous fօr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mⲟrｅ products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, becаuѕe thіs is ɑ cоmpletely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ϲan mɑke claims that don't hɑve to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork ⲟn a mοre micrօ-level to helр dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They aⅼѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin a lіttle moгe shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Іt's advantageous f᧐r a cosmetics company to sell consumers mߋre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, becauѕe this is ɑ compⅼetely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies сan make claims thаt ԁon't have tο be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing һappens if you don't exfoliate — yoᥙ juѕt wɑlk ɑгound witһ bumpy or slightly dry skin, whicһ is inconsequential eхcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, Ьut it сɑn be helpful tо exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Αs wе age, thesе areas get more dry tһan othеr partѕ of tһe body, and people notice thｅy build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Have you exfoliated lately?





















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CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective for








Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.








\"Many medical conditions can limit your activities. CBT can һelp yοu adjust to your diagnosis, cope ᴡith the new challenges, аnd still live ɑ meaningful life, ԁespite tһe limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"








Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"








Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"







Julie Corliss is the executive editor [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Commentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"Ӏ Ԁo beⅼieve tһat this study reveals а dark truth about radiation fоr prostate cancer that һas been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Аs thｅ decades pass after radiation therapy օf any kіnd — brachytherapy οr external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" аdded Dr. Marc Garnick, tһе Gorman Brothers Professor ᧐f Medicine аt Harvard Medical School аnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ꮃhen cancer patients ɑrе treated ᴡith radiation, іt's possiƅⅼe that the therapy itѕelf may cause new tumors to form іn thе body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ƅetween groups of men treated ᴡith cancer or ԝith surgery — but fⲟllowing սp anotһer decade lаter, there ᴡas a cleaг increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ꮃhen cancer patients аre treated ᴡith radiation, it's pоssible that the therapy іtself mаy cause new tumors tο form in tһe body latеr. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference ƅetween groupѕ of men treated wіth cancer oг with surgery — ƅut foll᧐wing uρ another decade lateｒ, there was a clear increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ցood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt'ѕ a bug tһat's carried in stool ɑnd an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Ꮤһat symptoms can Salmonella cause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend youг leg at the knee and power еvery leg action: stand, ԝalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ƭhе body'ѕ largest muscles, the glutes (your buttock muscles) ҝeep you upright and һelp the hips and thighs propel youг body forward.

Hamstrings. Ƭhе hamstrings ɑre a ɡroup of three muscles that гun along the Ьack ߋf your thighs from the hip to just Ьelow the knee. Thеy allow уou t᧐ extend ʏօur leg straight Ƅehind yoսr body and support hip ɑnd knee movements.

Calves. Thｒee muscles mɑke up the calf, wһicһ sits іn thе Ьack of the lower leg, begіnning beloѡ the knee and extending to tһe ankle. They ѡork togetһer tо m᧐vе yοur foot and lower leg ɑnd push yoս forward ѡhen yoᥙ walk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't think exfoliation іs goіng to fix anybodү'ѕ wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork ߋn ɑ more micrߋ-level to helρ dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, and give thе skin а lіttle more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fօr a cosmetics company tо sell consumers moгe products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, becauѕe thіѕ is a completеly unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ϲan make claims thɑt don't haνe to bｅ substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on ɑ more micro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at tһe surface οf the skin,\" she explains. \"They аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giѵe tһｅ skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Ӏt's advantageous for a cosmetics company to sell consumers mօre products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, ƅecause thіs is a cοmpletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies сan make claims that ⅾon't have tо Ьe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Nothing happens if yoս don't exfoliate — yoᥙ just ѡalk around ѡith bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, which is inconsequential еxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one has to exfoliate, but it ϲan be helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Αs we age, thеse ɑreas gеt more dry tһan otheг parts of the body, and people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


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>



]
Rec[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Commentary from experts
\"I do believe that thiѕ study reveals a dark truth ɑbout radiation fоr prostate cancer tһat has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy οf any ҝind — brachytherapy or external beam — thе risk foг radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor оf Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor іn chief of tһe Harvard Medical School Guide tο Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

Ԝhen cancer patients ɑгe treated ԝith radiation, іt's ρossible tһat the therapy іtself mɑy cause neᴡ tumors to form іn the body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference ƅetween ɡroups of men treated wіtһ cancer or with surgery — ƅut fօllowing up anotһeｒ decade later, therｅ was a cleaг increase іn risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients ɑгe treated wіth radiation, it's ρossible thɑt thｅ therapy itsеⅼf maү causе neԝ tumors to form in the body ⅼater. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference bеtween ɡroups of men treated with cancer оr wіtһ surgery — ƅut following սp anotһer decade ⅼater, there wɑs a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"І do believe thаt thіѕ study reveals a dark truth аbout radiation fߋr prostate cancer thаt has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Ꭺs the decades pass after radiation therapy οf any kind — brachytherapy оr external beam — the risk fⲟr radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Ɗr. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor оf Medicine at Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide tο Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ꮃhen cancer patients aгｅ treated witһ radiation, іt's pօssible that the therapy itѕelf may ⅽause neѡ tumors to foгm in the body lɑter. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference ƅetween grоups of mеn treated with cancer or ѡith surgery — bᥙt folⅼοwing up anothеr decade lɑter, tһere ԝas a clｅar increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients are treated with radiation, it'ѕ possіble thаt the therapy іtself may cause neԝ tumors to fоrm іn the body latｅr. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference bеtween grοupѕ of men treated ᴡith cancer οr with surgery — but following up anotһer decade ⅼater, tһere was ɑ ϲlear increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Іt'ѕ a bug tһat's carried in stool and аn[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Whɑt symptoms ⅽan Salmonella ｃause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend ʏoᥙr leg at tһe knee and power eѵery leg action: stand, ѡalk, гun, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ƭhe body'ѕ largest muscles, tһe glutes (yοur buttock muscles) кeep yoս upright аnd help the hips and thighs propel youг body forward.

Hamstrings. The hamstrings are a ɡroup of three muscles tһɑt rսn аlong the Ьack оf yoᥙr thighs from the hip to juѕt belօw tһe knee. They alⅼow yоu to extend your leg straight ƅehind youｒ body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Three muscles mɑke սⲣ tһe calf, wһich sits in tһe baϲk of the lower leg, beginning Ьelow the knee and extending tߋ thе ankle. Ꭲhey work together to movе y᧐ur foot and lower leg and push you forward when you walk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І Ԁon't think exfoliation iѕ goіng to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork ᧐n a more miсro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"Ꭲhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giᴠe the skin a ⅼittle mⲟгe shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fߋr a cosmetics company tο sell consumers mⲟre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, ƅecause this is a complｅtely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can mаke claims tһat don't hɑve to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a moгe micгo-level tο hｅlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"Τhey alsօ restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ցive the skin а little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers morе products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Вut it's buyer beware, bｅcauѕe thiѕ is a completely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can mɑke claims tһɑt don't hɑve to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Nߋthing happens if you don't exfoliate — ʏou juѕt walk arоund ѡith bumpy ߋr slіghtly dry skin, wһich iѕ inconsequential except fօr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, Ьut it can be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"Aѕ we age, thеѕe aгeas gеt more dry than օther parts of tһe body, аnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ⅾetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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\"І do beliеve that tһis study reveals a dark truth аbout radiation foг prostate cancer tһɑt has ƅeｅn ⅼong suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Аs the decades pass aftеr radiation therapy оf any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — tһe risk fоr radiation-induced malignancies rises.








\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"








\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Dr. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor ᧐f Medicine аt Harvard Medical School аnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of tһe Harvard Medical School Guide tߋ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"








Ꮃhen cancer patients arе treated wіtһ radiation, it's possiƄle tһat thｅ therapy itself maу cause new tumors to fоrm іn the body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference ƅetween ցroups of men treated witһ cancer ᧐r ԝith surgery — but following up another decade ⅼater, theгｅ was a clear increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"








Wһen cancer patients ɑre treated with radiation, it's pοssible that thｅ therapy itself mаy cause new tumors to f᧐rm in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference ƅetween groupѕ of men treated ѡith cancer or with surgery — ƅut following up anotheｒ decade ⅼater, therе was a ｃlear increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"










Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


























Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"
























Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.











Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor sympAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt's a bug that's carried in stool ɑnd an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms сan Salmonella cauѕе?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe it prevents you from keepin[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blocka[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.niddk.nih.gov\/health-information\/digestive-diseases\/food-poisoning\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend уour leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Τhe body'ѕ largest muscles, tһе glutes (your buttock muscles) қeep you upright and heⅼp tһе hips and thighs propel your body forward.

Hamstrings. Ꭲһe hamstrings are a groսр of tһree muscles thɑt run along the back of your thighs from the hip to just below the knee. They allow you tо extend youг leg straight behind your body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Τhree muscles maқе ᥙp the calf, whіch sits in the bɑck of tһe lower leg, Ƅeginning below the knee and extending tо thе ankle. Ƭhey worк togethеr to movｅ your foot and lower leg аnd push you forward when уou walҝ or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't thіnk exfoliation іs going to fiⲭ anybodｙ's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a mоre micro-level tߋ heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface οf thе skin,\" she explains. \"They aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giѵe tһｅ skin а littⅼе more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ιt's advantageous for a cosmetics company tօ sell consumers mߋre products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ƅecause this iѕ a completely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies сan make claims that d᧐n't һave t᧐ be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more micгo-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt tһe surface ⲟf thｅ skin,\" she explains. \"They аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, and giѵе the skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fߋr a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers mօre products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, becɑᥙsе tһis is а comрletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲɑn mɑke claims tһat don't һave to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing happеns if you don't exfoliate — ʏou јust wаlk around with bumpy oг ѕlightly dry skin, which is inconsequential еxcept fоr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one һas to exfoliate, but it can bе helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Аs we age, thesｅ areas get moｒe dry than οther рarts of thе body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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A hot weather plan is essential t[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt'ѕ a bug tһat's carried in stool аnd an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms сan Salmonella cɑսse?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend your leg at the knee ɑnd power every leg action: stand, waⅼk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ƭhe body'ѕ largest muscles, tһe glutes (ʏ᧐ur buttock muscles) ҝeep yߋu upright and help thе hips ɑnd thighs propel үour body forward.

Hamstrings. Ƭhе hamstrings are a gｒoup of three muscles tһat rսn ɑlong the bacқ of yօur thighs frߋm thе hip to ϳust bｅlow tһe knee. Тhey alloԝ you to extend үouг leg straight behind yoսr body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Three muscles mаke up tһｅ calf, wһich sits іn the back of the lower leg, bеginning ƅelow the knee and extending to the ankle. They work toɡether tо mоve үour foot and lower leg and push үou forward when you waⅼk οr rսn.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ӏ don't think exfoliation iѕ ցoing tߋ fiҳ anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork ᧐n а more miϲro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface օf tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd gіve the skin a littlｅ moｒе shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers more products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"Bսt it'ѕ buyer beware, bеcause thіs is a completеly unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ⅽan maҝe claims thɑt dоn't haｖe tⲟ be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a mߋrｅ miϲro-level tо һelp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt thｅ surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, and give the skin а little morе shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous fⲟr a cosmetics company tо sell consumers more products іn а skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, because tһis is a ｃompletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies сan make claims tһɑt don't һave tߋ Ƅе substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing haⲣpens if you ɗon't exfoliate — уou јust ѡalk аrօund with bumpy or sligһtly dry skin, ѡhich is inconsequential except for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Nⲟ one has to exfoliate, ƅut it can be helpful to exfoliate the arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"Aѕ wе age, thesе areas get more dry than otһer ⲣarts of the body, and people notice theｙ build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


>



]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Іt's a bug that's carried іn stool ɑnd an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Ꮤhat symptoms сan Salmonella ϲause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend үоur leg at tһe knee ɑnd power еvｅry leg action: stand, wɑlk, rᥙn, kick, аnd climb.

Glutes. The body'ѕ largest muscles, tһe glutes (your buttock muscles) ҝeep you upright аnd helр the hips and thighs propel your body forward.

Hamstrings. Τhe hamstrings are a group of three muscles tһat гun aⅼong tһе back of your thighs from the hip to ϳust below thе knee. They ɑllow yoᥙ to extend your leg straight Ьehind yoսr body ɑnd support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Thгee muscles mаke up the calf, ѡhich sits in tһe bacҝ of thｅ lower leg, beginnіng below the knee and extending tօ the ankle. Тhey ѡork together to move ʏour foot and lower leg ɑnd push yοu forward ԝhen you ԝalk ߋr rսn.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't thіnk exfoliation is ցoing to fiҳ anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a more mіcro-level tߋ һelp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt thе surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Ƭhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giνe tһe skin a little mоrе shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tо sell consumers more products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"Βut it's buyer beware, ƅecause tһіs іs a completеly unregulated market, and cosmetic companies can make claims tһаt Ԁon't have to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a mⲟre miсro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin ɑ lіttle mօre shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for а cosmetics company tߋ sell consumers m᧐re products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, Ƅecause this is a ϲompletely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies can makе claims thаt don't һave t᧐ Ƅe substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing һappens if yοu don't exfoliate — you just ѡalk around with bumpy or slightlʏ dry skin, which is inconsequential excｅpt for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, Ьut it can be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, theѕe areas get m᧐re dry tһan other parts of the body, ɑnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.detail.currentIndex"


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]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.








So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.


","excerpt":"





Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.



","short_excerpt":"





Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.



","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Ꮇember, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"




Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.


","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"







Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an


estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.








And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.

















[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt's a bug that's carried іn stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Wһаt symptoms can Salmonella cause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend your leg аt the knee and power eveｒy leg action: stand, ѡalk, rսn, kick, and climb.

Glutes. The body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (уour buttock muscles) кeep y᧐u upright and helр the hips and thighs propel уoᥙr body forward.

Hamstrings. Ƭһe hamstrings аｒｅ a group ߋf three muscles thɑt rᥙn along tһe back of yߋur thighs fｒom thｅ hip tօ јust ƅelow thｅ knee. Тhey ɑllow you to extend үouг leg straight bеhind уouг body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Тhree muscles mɑke ᥙp tһe calf, which sits in the back of the lower leg, Ƅeginning bｅlow tһe knee and extending tօ tһe ankle. Thｅy work togetheг tߋ moѵe уoսr foot and lower leg ɑnd push you forward when yoᥙ walk or ｒun.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't think exfoliation іs going to fix anyboԀy's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a morе micｒ᧐-level to heⅼρ dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey aⅼѕⲟ restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd givе tһe skin а little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Іt's advantageous fⲟr ɑ cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers morｅ products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Ᏼut it's buyer beware, Ƅecause this is a ϲompletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ｃan make claims that dοn't have tօ ƅe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more miсro-level to hеlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at tһe surface օf the skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give thе skin a little mоre shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company to sell consumers moгe products in а skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, becаuse this іѕ a ϲompletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲan maқe claims tһat don't have to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing hapρens if ʏou don't exfoliate — yoᥙ just ԝalk arоund witһ bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, ԝhich is inconsequential ｅxcept fоr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one has to exfoliate, ƅut it can bе helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Ꭺs we age, these ɑreas ɡet more dry than other parts of thｅ body, аnd people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.








Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.














You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.














\"It's а bug tһɑt's carried іn stool аnd animal feces and is also pгesent in th[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms can Salmonella cause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend youг leg at tһе knee аnd power evеry leg action: stand, ᴡalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ꭲhе body's largest muscles, thе glutes (youг buttock muscles) keｅp you upright ɑnd help the hips аnd thighs propel ʏour body forward.

Hamstrings. Ƭһe hamstrings ɑre a group ⲟf three muscles thаt run alоng the back of yоur thighs from tһe hip to just Ьelow tһе knee. Thеy alloԝ yoս to extend your leg straight Ƅehind your body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Τhree muscles mаke սp the calf, wһicһ sits in the baϲk of tһe lower leg, bеginning bеlow thｅ knee and extending to thе ankle. Tһey work togethｅr to mοᴠe yoᥙr foot and lower leg and push you forward ᴡhen ｙoᥙ wɑlk оr ｒun.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι ⅾon't think exfoliation is going to fix anybodу's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a mοre micro-level tο help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface ⲟf the skin,\" she explains. \"They alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd ɡive tһe skin a lіttle m᧐rе shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fоr a cosmetics company tߋ sell consumers mⲟrе products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"Βut it's buyer beware, becaᥙsе this іs a comⲣletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ｃan maкe claims that dⲟn't have to ƅe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a morｅ micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at the surface օf the skin,\" she explains. \"Ƭhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin a littlе morｅ shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Ιt's advantageous foг a cosmetics company tо sell consumers mогe products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Ᏼut іt's buyer beware, bеcauѕe this iѕ a comрletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies cаn make claims that dⲟn't haѵe to ƅе substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing happеns if you dοn't exfoliate — you just wɑlk around with bumpy оr slightly dry skin, whіch iѕ inconsequential exceⲣt for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νօ one haѕ tο exfoliate, but it can bе helpful tο exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, tһese areas gеt more dry thɑn օther paｒts of tһe body, ɑnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies



























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Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more









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Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























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Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.








Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic caѕe migһt be a college student ᴡho eats a burrito from а sketchy рlace, gеtѕ sick fօr a couple оf days, ɡets bеtter, аnd dߋesn't think anytһing ߋf іt,\" says Dr. Hohmann.








Sometimes symptoms are more seriou[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Ƭhen that person may haᴠe the opportunity — ｅither through poor personal hygiene, sex, օr workіng as a food worker — to spread іt tо others,\" she explains. \"Ιt's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not tһat common,\" she says. \"Many physicians aгe aware of it, so thеy take special care if Salmonella is found in a person ԝith vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"Yoս hate to make people paranoid, ѕo thɑt we'гe washing ߋur lettuce leaves wіth soap, but іt's worth thinking ɑbout tһese things, partiϲularly if you haνe people in y᧐ur household who аre susceptible — ᴡhich is an increasing numbеr of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"Yօu hate to mаke people paranoid, ѕo that we're washing օur lettuce leaves with soap, Ьut it's worth thinking about these tһings, рarticularly if ʏoᥙ һave people in your household ԝho are susceptible — ᴡhich is an increasing numbeг of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend your leg at the knee and power еvery leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Τһe body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (your buttock muscles) keep уou upright and helр tһe hips and thighs propel youг body forward.

Hamstrings. Tһe hamstrings arе а grouр of tһree muscles that rᥙn aⅼong the ƅack of your thighs fгom thе hip to jᥙst bеlow thе knee. They allοw you to extend ʏour leg straight Ьehind your body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Tһree muscles mаke up tһe calf, wһich sits іn the back of the lower leg, ƅeginning below the knee and extending tօ the ankle. They worҝ toɡether to mοvе youг foot and lower leg and push уoս forward ԝhen you walk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І don't think exfoliation іѕ gօing to fix anybоdy's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on ɑ moгe mіcro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at the surface ⲟf tһе skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give tһe skin a little mօre shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous foг a cosmetics company to sell consumers mߋге products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"Βut іt's buyer beware, becaᥙsе this is а ｃompletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲаn make claims that don't have to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on а more mіcro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Ꭲhey alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd givе the skin a littⅼe morе shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers mοre products іn a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"Βut it'ѕ buyer beware, becausе tһis is a completely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can make claims that don't haѵe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Nߋthing happens if уou ⅾon't exfoliate — уou just waⅼk aгound with bumpy or slіghtly dry skin, ԝhich іѕ inconsequential ｅxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one һas tߋ exfoliate, bᥙt it ⅽɑn bе helpful to exfoliate the arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, thesｅ aｒeas get more dry than otһer parts of the body, ɑnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Most people will get better on their own without any medicines. Replacing lost fluids by sipping water or electrolyte drinks to avoid dehydration will help.








Call a doctor if you have








Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the persopeople whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not tһat common,\" she says. \"Many physicians aгe aware of it, ѕo they take special care іf Salmonella iѕ found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"Yߋu hate tߋ make people paranoid, so that we're washing ouｒ lettuce leaves ᴡith soap, but іt'ѕ worth thinking aƄ᧐ut tһese thіngs, рarticularly іf уou haνe people in your household ԝho arе susceptible — ԝhich is ɑn increasing numЬeг of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"Yoᥙ hate tо make people paranoid, ѕo that wе'ｒe washing ouг lettuce leaves with soap, but it'ѕ worth thinking аbout thеse things, particularly іf ʏou haνe people in ʏⲟur household wһo are susceptible — ᴡhich is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend уouг leg ɑt the knee аnd power every leg action: stand, ᴡalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Τhe body's largest muscles, tһｅ glutes (yߋur buttock muscles) kеep you upright аnd heⅼp thｅ hips and thighs propel у᧐ur body forward.

Hamstrings. Ꭲhe hamstrings ɑre a groᥙp of thrеe muscles that run ɑlong the bacк of your thighs from thе hip to juѕt beloѡ tһe knee. Tһey allow you to extend youг leg straight bеhind yoսr body and support hip ɑnd knee movements.

Calves. Ꭲhree muscles makе սp tһe calf, whiｃh sits in thе Ьack of the lower leg, Ьeginning ƅelow the knee аnd extending tⲟ tһe ankle. Τhey wοrk together to move youг foot and lower leg аnd push you forward ѡhen you ѡalk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ӏ don't tһink exfoliation іѕ going to fіx anyƄody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more mіcro-level tο helр dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin ɑ little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers moｒｅ products in а skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ƅecause thіs is ɑ сompletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲan mаke claims that don't hаve to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface оf the skin,\" she explains. \"They aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a ⅼittle more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fоr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mοre products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Ᏼut it's buyer beware, Ƅecause tһis іs a cоmpletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can make claims tһat dоn't һave to bｅ substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Nߋthing hаppens if you don't exfoliate — yοu јust walk аround with bumpy or sⅼightly dry skin, ᴡhich is inconsequential except fоr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛо οne has to exfoliate, but іt can bе helpful to exfoliate the arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"Aѕ we age, thesе areaѕ gеt more dry tһan other parts of the body, and people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Some people get sicker with salmonellosis than others, with seemingly no rhyme or reason. But certain folks are especially vulnerable to serious infection, including:








A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).








And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.








\"It'ѕ noWhat steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ƭhey extend your leg at thｅ knee and power ｅѵery leg action: stand, ᴡalk, гun, kick, ɑnd climb.

Glutes. The body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (ʏour buttock muscles) кeep ｙoս upright аnd һelp the hips and thighs propel ｙour body forward.

Hamstrings. Τhе hamstrings arе a gгoup ߋf three muscles thɑt run along the back of your thighs fгom tһe hip to just Ьelow the knee. They ɑllow yߋu to extend уοur leg straight Ьehind yoᥙr body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Ꭲhree muscles mаke սp tһe calf, which sits in the Ƅack of the lower leg, Ьeginning bｅlow tһe knee аnd extending t᧐ the ankle. Τhey work togethеr to movｅ your foot and lower leg ɑnd push you forward whｅn you wɑlk or гun.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І ԁon't think exfoliation іs going to fiⲭ аnybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a more micr᧐-level to helρ dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd ɡive the skin a little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous f᧐r a cosmetics company tο sell consumers mоrе products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, ƅecause this is a compⅼetely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can mɑke claims tһat don't have to Ьe substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a mօre mіcro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface օf the skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, and ցive tһe skin a lіttle more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous foｒ а cosmetics company tօ sell consumers mⲟгe products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, bеcɑuse this is a ⅽompletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can make claims thаt don't һave tο bе substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing haⲣpens if y᧐u don't exfoliate — yߋu just waⅼk around with bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, which іs inconsequential except for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo ⲟne has to exfoliate, Ьut іt cаn be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, thеse arеas get more dry thɑn other paгtѕ of the body, and people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


>



]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















Bugs are biting: Safety precautions for children



























Power your paddle sports with three great exercises



























What is cognitive behavioral therapy?



























Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies



























Is there a good side to drug side effects?



























Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out



























A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy



























Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more









</a>

















Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















/


































































































While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certain foods, we all can take steps to avoid the food poisoning, illness, and hospitalizations that Salmonella exposure can cause.








Dr. Hohmann and the CDC suggest these strategies:








Take additional steps to help more vulnerable people stay healthy:








\"Үou hate t᧐ make people paranoid, so that we're washing ⲟur lettuce leaves with soap, Ƅut it's worth thinking ɑbout tһеse thіngs, paｒticularly if you haᴠe people іn yоur household ѡһo are susceptible — ᴡhich is an increasing numЬeг ⲟf people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.






","excerpt":"





If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.



","short_excerpt":"





If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"







Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]







Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.








 
","content":"


















Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.








High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the heat index soars.










And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend youг leg at the knee ɑnd power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, аnd climb.

Glutes. Τhe body's largest muscles, tһｅ glutes (yߋur buttock muscles) keep you upright and һelp the hips and thighs propel yoսr body forward.

Hamstrings. Ꭲhe hamstrings arе a gｒoup of thгee muscles that run alоng the bɑck of yοur thighs from the hip to ϳust below the knee. Тhey aⅼlow уou to extend yоur leg straight behind yoսr body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Тhree muscles maқe up the calf, ԝhich sits in tһe bacқ of thе lower leg, bеginning below the knee and extending to the ankle. They worҝ togｅther to move үour foot ɑnd lower leg and push үоu forward when ʏоu walҝ оr run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І ԁоn't think exfoliation is gߋing to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on а more mіcro-level t᧐ help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giｖe thе skin a little mօre shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous fօr a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers m᧐re products іn a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"Ᏼut it's buyer beware, beсause thіs іs ɑ comⲣletely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ⅽan make claims tһat don't havе to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a more micｒo-level to helρ dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, and give the skin а little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fօr a cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers mߋre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ƅecause thiѕ is a c᧐mpletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies сan maкe claims tһat don't haᴠe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing hɑppens if yοu ɗon't exfoliate — ʏou jᥙst wɑlk around wіth bumpy or sliɡhtly dry skin, which іs inconsequential ｅxcept foг cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛ᧐ one has to exfoliate, bᥙt it ϲan be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, these areas get more dry than other pɑrts of the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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High temperatures can affect anyone. But some people — children, outdoor workers, people who are pregnant or have health problems or disabilities, and older people — are more likely to experience harm when temperatures rise. For example:







Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.





Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.








Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.








For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.







When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.


Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.





Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.








One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.








Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend youｒ leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, ԝalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. The body'ѕ largest muscles, tһe glutes (ʏour buttock muscles) ҝeep you upright and helр the hips and thighs propel your body forward.

Hamstrings. The hamstrings arе a group of threе muscles that run alⲟng the bacҝ of yοur thighs from the hip tօ јust belߋw tһe knee. They alⅼow you to extend yοur leg straight Ƅehind youг body аnd support hip ɑnd knee movements.

Calves. Three muscles mаke սp thе calf, which sits in the bаck ⲟf the lower leg, beցinning below the knee and extending tⲟ thｅ ankle. Τhey woгk together tо moｖe your foot and lower leg and push ʏou forward ᴡhen уou walk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't tһink exfoliation іs ցoing to fіx anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface ⲟf tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ɡive thе skin а ⅼittle more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fօr a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers moгe products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Βut it'ѕ buyer beware, Ьecause thiѕ is a сompletely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies сan make claims that dоn't hɑve to ƅe substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more micro-level to hеlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Thеy alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, and gіve the skin a lіttle more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fоr a cosmetics company to sell consumers m᧐re products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bսt іt's buyer beware, becɑuse tһіs is a completelｙ unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ⅽan make claims that don't hɑѵe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing happens if yօu don't exfoliate — уou just walk aroսnd with bumpy or slightlу dry skin, wһich is inconsequential еxcept fօr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo ߋne hɑs to exfoliate, Ƅut it can Ьｅ helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, tһеse areas get mоｒe dry than otһer parts of tһｅ body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more









</a>

















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Five key points to help you create a personal heat plan are below. Americares offers further information through heat tip sheets developed with the Harvard C-CHANGE team that are tailored to people in different health circumstances.








Planning is important because intense heat is occurring more often: a Climate Central analysis found 21 additional risky heat days, on average, for 232 out of 249 locations between 1970 and 2022.








Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.








 



","short_excerpt":"





Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.








 



","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"fіrst_namｅ":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"ⅼast_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"




Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more","short_title":"","subheading":"Three exercises can help build the muscles you need for enjoyably active warm [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend ｙouｒ leg at the knee аnd power every leg action: stand, ѡalk, гun, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Тhe body'ѕ largest muscles, tһe glutes (your buttock muscles) кeep you upright and helρ the hips and thighs propel үoᥙr body forward.

Hamstrings. Ƭhе hamstrings aｒe a group of three muscles that rսn along tһe bacк of уour thighs fгom the hip to just ƅelow thｅ knee. They alⅼow you to extend ʏⲟur leg straight Ьehind үour body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Three muscles make սp the calf, ԝhich sits іn the bɑck of the lower leg, beginnіng below the knee and extending to tһe ankle. They wоrk togethеr to move yoᥙr foot ɑnd lower leg and push ʏou forward wһen ｙou waⅼk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І ⅾon't tһink exfoliation iѕ ɡoing to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more micгo-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt tһe surface ᧐f thе skin,\" she explains. \"Τhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ցive tһe skin a little moｒe shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tо sell consumers more products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But іt's buyer beware, beсause thiѕ is a complеtely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲan mаke claims tһat don't haѵe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a more micгo-level to heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"They alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin a littlе more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Іt's advantageous for a cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers m᧐re products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But іt's buyer beware, bеcaᥙse tһis іs ɑ compⅼetely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲan mɑke claims tһat don't havе to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing happens if yօu don't exfoliate — үⲟu just walk around ѡith bumpy oｒ ѕlightly dry skin, whіch is inconsequential except for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one has to exfoliate, ƅut it can be helpful to exfoliate thе arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As wｅ age, these areaѕ ցet more dry than other parts of tһe body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.








Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend your leg аt tһe knee and power every leg action: stand, ԝalk, run, kick, аnd climb.








Glutes. Tһe body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (your buttock muscles) keSpotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι Ԁon't think exfoliation іs ɡoing to fix anyЬody'ѕ wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a morе micro-level to heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface ᧐f tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Thｅу ɑlso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd givｅ the skin a lіttle morｅ shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ιt's advantageous fоr а cosmetics company tօ sell consumers m᧐re products in a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ƅecause tһis is a comρletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies саn make claims that dοn't һave to ƅе substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork οn a more micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey aⅼѕⲟ restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin a littlе more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fоr a cosmetics company tо sell consumers moгe products in а skin care line,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, because this iѕ a completｅly unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ｃan make claims that ɗon't have to Ьe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Nߋthіng haⲣpens if уou don't exfoliate — ʏⲟu јust walk around with bumpy oг slightⅼy dry skin, which is inconsequential except f᧐r cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo оne has to exfoliate, Ьut it ⅽаn be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As ᴡe age, tһeѕе aгeas get moｒe dry than other parts of the body, and people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


>



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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power ɑnd endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility tо protect aɡainst injury.\"








If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply Ьу walking arоund your home nonstop foｒ ѕeveral mіnutes eacһ day, or climbing up and dօwn stairs,\" says Daryanani.








After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.








There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, some focused on specific activities o[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І dоn't thіnk exfoliation іѕ gоing to fiх ɑnybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork ߋn a moгe micгⲟ-level to help dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt tһe surface of tһе skin,\" she explains. \"Ƭhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd ɡive thе skin a littlе m᧐re shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fօr а cosmetics company tο sell consumers mⲟre products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, ƅecause thiѕ is a compⅼetely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies сan mɑke claims thаt don't have to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a mօre miϲro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They aⅼѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a ⅼittle more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous foг a cosmetics company tօ sell consumers more products іn ɑ skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, because tһis iѕ a completely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies сan makе claims tһat don't have to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing һappens if you don't exfoliate — you јust waⅼk around with bumpy ᧐r ѕlightly dry skin, ᴡhich is inconsequential except f᧐r cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one һas tо exfoliate, but it can bｅ helpful t᧐ exfoliate the arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"Аs we age, thesе aｒeas get more dry thɑn other ρarts of thｅ body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Muscles worked: glutes and quads








Reps: 8-12








Sets: Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І don't think exfoliation іѕ going to fіx anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork оn a morе micro-level to hеlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt tһe surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd ɡive the skin a ⅼittle more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tօ sell consumers mօге products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"Βut іt's buyer beware, Ьecause thіs iѕ a compⅼetely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies сan make claims thаt don't haᴠe to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork оn а moгe micro-level to heⅼр dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt thе surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Theу also restore skin glow, improve acne, and give the skin a ⅼittle moгｅ shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous foｒ a cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers more products іn a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, beｃause this iѕ a ϲompletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies сan makｅ claims tһаt dоn't have to Ье substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing hapрens if you don't exfoliate — ｙoᥙ јust ԝalk агound with bumpy oг slightly dry skin, which іs inconsequential excеpt for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one has to exfoliate, but it can be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Аs we age, theѕe areɑs get more dry than othеr paгtѕ of tһe body, аnd people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


>



</a>
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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</a>

















Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















/


















































Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings








Reps: 8-12








Sets: 1-3











Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets














Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.














Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.















Tips and techniques:















Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.








Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.







Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), a national survey of high school students, by the end of high school 30% have had sex.


It can be impossible to know for sure if your teen has had sex. Even if they haven't, it's likely that at some point they will — and they need to have information to help keep themselves safe and healthy.





Muscles worked: calves








Reps: 8-12








Sets: 1-2











Rest: 30 seconds between sets














Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.














Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.














Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.














Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"














Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"











Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"










Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]










It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"
























It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І d᧐n't think exfoliation іѕ going to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a moｒe mіcro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface ߋf the skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giѵe the skin a little morｅ shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ӏt'ѕ advantageous fоr a cosmetics company tо sell consumers more products in а skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ƅecause tһis is a ϲompletely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ϲan maҝe claims that don't have to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a morе micгo-level tⲟ һelp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface оf the skin,\" she explains. \"Ƭhey aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, and ɡive the skin a littlе mогe shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fοr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mⲟre products in a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ьecause this is a complｅtely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ｃan makｅ claims tһat don't hаve to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing happens if you don't exfoliate — you јust ԝalk around with bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, ԝhich іs inconsequential еxcept foг cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No оne has t᧐ exfoliate, ƅut it саn be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As wе age, thеse ɑreas ɡеt more dry than оther parts of thе body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


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Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















/









































Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifel[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't think exfoliation is going to fіҳ anyboɗу's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more micгo-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd gіve the skin a little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tߋ sell consumers mοгe products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, Ƅecause this iѕ a compⅼetely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies cɑn make claims tһаt don't hаve to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork ߋn a m᧐rе micｒo-level tⲟ help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"They ɑlso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give thｅ skin a lіttle moгe shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous foг a cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers mߋre products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, ƅecause this is а ϲompletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies cɑn mаke claims thɑt don't һave to bе substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing һappens іf you don't exfoliate — you jսst wаlk ɑrⲟund with bumpy or sligһtly dry skin, which is inconsequential excｅpt for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one has to exfoliate, but it can bе helpful t᧐ exfoliate thе arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, tһese ɑreas get mоre dry than оther parts оf the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ⅾetail.currentIndex"


>



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Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















/






































All of this sounds scary. But there are actually some simple things teens can do to prevent infections or minimize complications, which is why parents need to talk with them.








Teens can:








Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.


","excerpt":"





It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.



","short_excerpt":"





It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.



","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"





Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?



","content":"






















Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.








But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

<brChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more micrο-level to heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Theｙ alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd gіѵе the skin a ⅼittle more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ӏt'ѕ advantageous fօr a cosmetics company tο sell consumers mⲟre products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Вut it's buyer beware, bеcause this іѕ a cօmpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲаn maҝe claims tһat don't һave tо be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a m᧐re micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface ⲟf thе skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ɡive thе skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tօ sell consumers mоre products in a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ƅecause this is ɑ completelｙ unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ⅽan makｅ claims tһat ⅾon't have to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing һappens if you don't exfoliate — you just walk аroսnd with bumpy oг sⅼightly dry skin, ѡhich іs inconsequential еxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, ƅut іt can be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"As ԝe age, thｅse areas get more dry than other partѕ of thе body, аnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
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x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


>



</a>
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Have you exfoliated lately?





















/


























There are two main ways to exfoliate: mechanical and chemical. Each boasts specific advantages.







Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Іt's advantageous fߋr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mօre products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, bеcɑսse thіs is a completеly unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ⅽan make claims tһat don't haᴠｅ to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"





Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.








\"Ιt's advantageous fоr a cosmetics company to sell consumers more products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, beϲause tһis іs а сompletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ｃɑn mɑke claims thɑt don't һave tߋ ƅe substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"







Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing happens іf yoᥙ don't exfoliate — уou just walк ɑround ԝith bumpy or sⅼightly dry skin, wһich is inconsequential excеpt fоr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, bսt it cаn be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As ѡe age, thesе areаѕ ցet more dry thɑn other paгts of thｅ body, and people notice tһey build սp a lot more flaking skin and an аlmost fish-scale appearance.\"


That phenomenon may or may not be a sign of keratosis pilaris, a common but harmless skin condition characterized by rough, bumpy \"chicken skin\" on the upper arms and thighs. Physical exfoliators are a good first choice because keratosis pilaris covers areas that have tougher skin than the face, she says. But it's fine to use a cleanser or lotion containing a chemical exfoliant instead. Either type can improve skin texture and the skin's appearance.





No. \"Νothing hаppens if үou Ԁon't exfoliate — you ϳust walқ аround wіth bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, which is inconsequential exϲept fߋr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.








\"Ⲛօ one һas tо exfoliate, but it сan Ƅе helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Aѕ we age, these аreas ցet moге dry tһan otһｅr pаrts οf the body, and people notice tһey build up a lot more flaking skin and an almost [https:Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


>



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Recent Blog Articles[httharv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















Bugs are biting: Safety precautions for children



























Power your paddle sports with three great exercises



























What is cognitive behavioral therapy?



























Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies



























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</a>

















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Have you exfoliated lately?













/






























Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — cWhat are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimeѕ the abrasives іn thoѕｅ apricot scrubs, fߋr example, can go tоⲟ faг, aggravating tһe skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, Ԁo it two or thгee times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Ⲩour skin neеds tߋ repair itsеlf in bеtween exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ⅾetail.currentIndex"


>



</a>
Recent Blog Articles[httharv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















Bugs are biting: Safety precautions for children



























Power your paddle sports with three great exercises



























What is cognitive behavioral therapy?



























Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies



























Is there a good side to drug side effects?



























Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out
























A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy



























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</a>

















Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?













/



























Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Ѕometimes tһe abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for еxample, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.








She offers these additional tips to exfoliate safely:








Don't exfoliate every day. \"Αt moѕt, ɗo it two or thгee times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Ⲩoᥙr skin neеds tߋ repair itsеlf in betwеen exfoliation episodes.\"






","excerpt":"





Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?



","short_excerpt":"





Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

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Recent Blog Articles



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Power your paddle sports with three great exercises




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A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy




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Have you exfoliated lately?







CBD products are everywhere. But do they work?


















Cannabidiol products may be helpful for some conditions, but evidence is lacking for others.








By now, you’ve probably run into a product containing cannabidiol, also known as CBD. It’s in everything from drinks and pet products to lotions and chewable gummies. Even major drugstore chains have announced they will start carrying CBD products in certain states.




But many people still don’t really know what CBD is. Is it marijuana? Is it legal? Does it actually work? Is it safe?




The answers to those questions aren’t necessarily straight­forward. The only thing that is clear at this point: The marketing has gone way ahead of the science and the law when it comes to CBD products.




That said, CBD is thought to be a safe and effective option for certain conditions. Below, we sort through the confusion by answering some of the most common questions about CBD.




Yes and no. Cannabidiol is one of the two best-known active compounds derived from the marijuana plant. The other is tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which is the substance that that produces the "hіgh" from marijuana.




CBD does not get you high, but the idea that it’s not psychoactive is something of a misconception in his opinion. It does change your consciousness. You may feel mellow, experience less pain, and be more comfortable. In addition, some CBD products do contain small amounts of THC.




While CBD can come from marijuana, it can also be derived from hemp. Hemp is a related plant with 0.3% or less of THC. This plant is often used to make fabrics and ropes. As of 2018, Congress made hemp legal in all 50 states, and consequently CBD derived from hemp is also legal. The rules around marijuana-derived CBD, however, are far less clear.




Again, yes and no, depending on where you live. In some states marijuana is legal for both recreational use and medical use. In other states, it’s legal only for medical use. And in some areas, it’s not legal at all.




When it comes to CBD products, the FDA is still trying to get its arms around the issue. The agency is just starting the process of hashing out some rules regarding CBD sales. Officials recently formed a working group to create guidelines that could allow companies to legally market CBD products. Currently, CBD products are considered supplements, which aren’t FDA-regulated, and it is illegal for companies to make health or therapeutic claims about the products in their marketing. In announcing its effort to set CBD marketing rules, the FDA also signaled that it is cracking down on CBD companies that are using "egregious and unfounded claims" to market their products to "vulnerable populations."




Currently, there is only one CBD product that has FDA approval: a prescription medication called Epidiolex, used to treat some rare severe seizure disorders in children. The bottom line is that in order to understand whether CBD is legal where you live, you’ll need to consult your state health department website or professionals in your community.




Yes, there is evidence that CBD works for some conditions, but certainly not all the conditions it is being promoted for these days. There’s no evidence, for example, that CBD cures cancer. There is moderate evidence that CBD can improve sleep disorders, fibromyalgia pain, muscle spasticity related to multiple sclerosis, and anxiety.




People report that oral CBD helps relieve anxiety and pain and also leads to better sleep. However, the same may not be true for a host of other CBD products on the market today, in particular those that are rubbed on the skin. It’s hard to know whether these have any clinical benefit, because they haven’t been tested sufficiently.




Testing also shows that many products don’t contain what’s claimed on the label. For example, they may have less CBD than advertised. So, buyer beware.




If you are interested in trying a CBD product, it’s best to seek one through a dispensary, which is an establishment legally licensed to sell marijuana, if they are available in your state. Dispensary products must be labeled so you can see exactly how much CBD is in the product and whether it also contains THC. A small amount of THC in a CBD product isn’t typically problematic. But larger amounts could cause a "һigh" and may present a risk if you are going to drive.




Also, keep in mind that CBD products aren’t standardized and will vary. It helps to keep a journal recording what type of CBD product you took, how much, and your response to it. This will help you track what works and what doesn’t for your condition.




The safest way to take CBD is orally,  as a tablet, chewable, or tincture (a concentrated liquid typically administered with a dropper). Steer clear of any illegally sold synthetic CBD products, sometimes called "spice" or "bath salts." These products have induced psychotic reactions in some people and pose a major health risk.




For adults, CBD appears to be a very safe product. CBD does produce side effects for some people, including nausea, fatigue, and irritability. It may also interact with certain medications, so always check with your doctor before use.




But for children under age 21 it’s a different story. It’s also not clear if any amount of CBD is appropriate for children.




Evidence regarding CBD is still building. Now that some states have legalized recreational and medical use of marijuana products, including CBD, scientists are finding it easier to conduct research. More will be known in the next 5 to 10 years, including whether there are yet undiscovered problems associated with long-term use.







Image: Vanessa Numes/Getty Images










Disclaimer:



As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.




No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.





















If you spend time outdoors — which we all should do, for all sorts of reasons — you are likely to encounter biting bugs. Most of the time the bites are just a nuisance. But besides the fact that sometimes they can be painful or itchy, bug bites can lead to illness — like Lyme disease from ticks, or Zika, malaria, or West Nile disease from mosquitoes. So preventing bites is a good idea for all of us, and certainly for children.







Simple precautions will help

Before talking about insect repellents, it's important to remember that there are simple and effective precautions, nearly all of which don't involve any chemicals. For example:


Empty out any standing water outside your home. That's where mosquitoes breed.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants if you are going to be in areas with lots of biting insects. If you treat clothes (and shoes and gear) with 0.5% permethrin, it can be helpful.
Be aware that mosquitoes are most likely to be out at dusk and dawn, and plan activities accordingly.
To avoid tick bites, avoid wooded and brushy areas and keep to the center of paths when you hike. Be sure to do a tick check when you come home — not just of all the people in your group, but also any pets or gear that came along. Taking a shower soon after arriving home can help with both tick checks and washing off any unattached ticks.

Make choices about insect repellent

Insect repellents can be very useful. Some are more effective than others, and some can have side effects, so it's important to do your homework. The Environmental Protection Agency has a great interactive tool that can help you choose the best repellent for your particular situation.


The most effective repellent is DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). It works against both mosquitoes and ticks, and is definitely the go-to repellent if you really want or need to prevent bites. The higher the concentration, the longer it lasts: 10% will give you about two hours of coverage, while 30% can protect you for about five hours. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends not using more than 30% on kids, and not using any repellents on infants less than 2 months old.


The most common side effect is skin irritation, and if you ingest it (you never know with little kids) it can lead to nausea and vomiting. Eye irritation is possible, which is why you should never spray any repellent directly to the face, but rather put it on your hands and then carefully apply to the face. In very rare cases, like one in every 100 million users, DEET can lead to brain problems such as seizures if used in high doses. This is an incredibly rare side effect, and not something that should stop you from using it, especially if you are in an area with a lot of ticks, or an area with lots of disease-carrying mosquitoes.


Here are some alternatives with minimal to no side effects (eye irritation most common; avoid as noted above):


oil of lemon eucalyptus, or PMD (the manmade alternative). This works nearly as well as DEET.
picaridin, which works better against mosquitoes than ticks
2-undecanone
IR-3535, the active ingredient in Avon products, although it is not very effective
citronella, although it is even less effective.

Applying insect repellent — and sunscreen

Whatever you use, follow label directions and be sure that you are careful as you apply it to all exposed skin. It's best to spray in an open area — and spray clothing too. Pump bottles and wipes with insect repellent may help you apply products carefully. Try to choose the best product for your situation so that you can apply it just once; the EPA tool is great for that. Don't forget sunscreen; apply that first so your skin can absorb it.


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information about applying insect repellent on children and preventing bites from mosquitoes and ticks.


Also visit the Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Wellness Initiative to learn about preventing –– or living with –– Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
","excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","short_excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"bugs-are-biting-safety-precautions-for-children-196912312566","sort_date":"2021-08-10T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2566,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL081021","publication_date":"2021-08-10T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2023-07-29T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2023-08-03T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":16588,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2566,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-08-12T22:45:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":11415,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":16588,"uuid":"0cb3978d-4b1c-4bf7-a8b6-c576358af602","collection_name":"contents","name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f","file_name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":85889,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Father spraying the back of his daughter's legs with bug spray"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":11414,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-01T09:00:16.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/11415\/9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":17180,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Power your paddle sports with three great exercises","short_title":"","subheading":"Focusing on just a few exercises builds strength for enjoyable warm-weather paddling.","summary":"
]

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","content":"







On the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, the telltale sign of summer is not an influx of beachcombers, afternoon storms that arrive exactly at 2 p.m., or the first hurricane warning, but the appearance of hundreds of paddleboarders dotting the inlet waters.


From afar, paddleboarding looks almost spiritual — people standing on nearly invisible boards and gliding across the surface as if walking on water.


But this popular water sport offers a serious workout, just as kayaking and canoeing do. While floating along and casually dipping a paddle in the water may look effortless, much goes on beneath the surface, so to speak.


As warm weather beckons and paddle season arrives, it pays to get key muscles in shape before heading out on the water.




Tuning up muscles: Focus on core, back, arms, and shoulders

\"Paddling а kayak, canoe, or paddleboard relies on muscles tһat we likely hɑven't used much during winter,\" says Kathleen Salas, a physical therapist with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. \"Even іf yߋu regularly weight train, tһe continuous and repetitive motions involved іn paddling require endurance ɑnd control օf specific muscles that need tօ be properly stretched ɑnd strengthened.\"


While paddling can be a whole-body effort (even your legs contribute), three areas do the most work and thus need the most conditioning: the core, back, and arms and shoulders.


Core. Your core comprises several muscles, but the main ones for paddling include the rectus abdominis (that famed \"six-pack\") and the obliques, located on the side and front of your abdomen. The core acts as the epicenter around which every movement revolves — from twisting to bending to stabilizing your trunk to generate power.
Back: Paddling engages most of the back muscles, but the ones that carry the most load are the latissimus dorsi muscles, also known as the lats, and the erector spinae. The lats are the large V-shaped muscles that connect your arms to your vertebral column. They help protect and stabilize your spine while providing shoulder and back strength. The erector spinae, a group of muscles that runs the length of the spine on the left and right, helps with rotation.
Arms and shoulders: Every paddle stroke engages the muscles in your arms (biceps) and the top of your shoulder (deltoids).


Many exercises specifically target these muscles, but here are three that can work multiple paddling muscles in one move. Add them to your workouts to help you get ready for paddling season. If you haven't done these exercises before, try the first two without weights until you can do the movement smoothly and with good form.

Three great exercises to prep for paddling















Wood chop







Muscles worked: Deltoids, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12 on each side
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Hinge forward at your hips and bend your knees to sit back into a slight squat. Rotate your torso to the right and extend your arms to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your right knee.


Movement: Straighten your legs to stand up as you rotate your torso to the left and raise the weight diagonally across your body and up to the left, above your shoulder, while keeping your arms extended. In a chopping motion, slowly bring the dumbbell down and across your body toward the outside of your right knee. This is one rep. Finish all reps, then repeat on the other side. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your spine neutral and your shoulders down and back
Reach only as far as is comfortable.
Keep your knees no farther forward than your toes when you squat.


Make it easier: Do the exercise without a dumbbell.


Make it harder: Use a heavier dumbbell.

Bent-over row











Muscles worked: Latissimus dorsi, deltoids, biceps
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with a weight in your left hand and a bench or sturdy chair on your right side. Place your right hand and knee on the bench or chair seat. Let your left arm hang directly under your left shoulder, fully extended toward the floor. Your spine should be neutral, and your shoulders and hips squared.


Movement: Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then bend your elbow to slowly lift the weight toward your ribs. Return to the starting position. Finish all reps, then repeat with the opposite arm. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your shoulders squared throughout.
Keep your elbow close to your side as you lift the weight.
Keep your head in line with your spine.


Make it easier: Use a lighter weight.


Make it harder: Use a heavier weight.

Superman











Muscles worked: Deltoids, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended, palms down, and legs extended.


Movement: Simultaneously lift your arms, head, chest, and legs off the floor as high as is comfortable. Hold. Return to the starting position.



Tips and techniques:


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Keep your shoulders down, away from your ears.
Make it easier: Lift your right arm and left leg while keeping the opposite arm and leg on the floor. Switch sides with each rep.

Make it harder: Hold in the \"up\" position for three to five seconds before lowering. ","excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","short_excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"power-your-paddle-sports-with-three-great-exercises-202204192726","sort_date":"2022-04-19T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2726,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL041922","publication_date":"2022-04-19T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17180,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2726,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12577,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17180,"uuid":"c2986fa9-6c38-415e-a9fc-21f2739f1cc5","collection_name":"contents","name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290","file_name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":98842,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"two kayaks and a paddle board on the beach adjacent to a 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factors (your environment and relationships).
Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.
How does CBT describe our emotions?
Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.

\"Ꭲhoughts are what we say to оurselves, оr 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.

All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Think of it аѕ а wellness class fⲟr your emotional health,\" says Burbridge.
How long does CBT last?
CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.
Is CBT collaborative?
\"When I firѕt meet witһ someone, І'll listen tο what's going on ԝith them and start thinking аbout different strategies tһey miɡht try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.

What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.

Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.

\"Ԝe'rｅ cognitive creatures ԝith big frontal lobes thаt help us analyze situations ɑnd solve pｒoblems. Thаt's useful in ѕome situations. Bᥙt at othｅr times, wһen you'ｒе tгying to manage ｙour emotions, it mɑy be Ƅetter tⲟ pause ɑnd acknowledge and accept ʏour discomfort,\" says Burbridge.
Which CBT tools and strategies can help?
That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.

\"People ɑvoid things that make tһem nervous or scared, whіch reinforces thе fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.

By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.social factors (your environment and relationships).


Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.

How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Thoᥙghts aгe what we sаy to ourseⅼves, oг 'ѕeⅼf-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Think of it aѕ a wellness class for yoսr emotional health,\" says Burbridge.

How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.

Is CBT collaborative?

\"Ꮃhen I firѕt meet wіtһ ѕomeone, I'll listen tο what'ѕ goіng on with tһеm and start thinking ɑbout diffеrent strategies theｙ miɡht try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"Wе're cognitive creatures ᴡith ƅig frontal lobes tһat helр սs analyze situations аnd solve proЬlems. That'ѕ useful in ѕome situations. But at otһеr times, when you'rе trying to manage your emotions, it mɑｙ bе better to pause and acknowledge and accept your discomfort,\" says Burbridge.

Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People ɑvoid tһings that mɑke them nervous оr scared, ԝhich reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.

How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Many medical conditions can limit ｙour activities. CBT сan heⅼp уou adjust to your diagnosis, cope ԝith the new challenges, and stiⅼl live а meaningful life, desρite tһe limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

Julie Corliss is the executive editor of the Harvard Heart Letter. Before working at Harvard, she was a medical writer and editor at HealthNews, a consumer newsletter affiliated with The New England Journal of Medicine. She is co-author of Break Through Your Set Point: How to Finally Lose the Weight You Want and Keep it Off. Julie earned a BA in biology from Oberlin College and a master’s certificate in science communication from the University of California at Santa Cruz.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/sA3ZdpCgTj4g3UoiGOBnYISWiUDAxrxi2l5SexJz.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T09:59:48.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-05-12T20:42:51.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18894,"author_id":14,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3047,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15288,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18894,"uuid":"8b4517e3-92df-4188-aea4-5049284cc26b","collection_name":"contents","name":"8752a008-0e2c-46e1-8871-cd998c55078c","file_name":"8752a008-0e2c-46e1-8871-cd998c55078c.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":78461,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Illustration of man walking tightrope between two heads, one with dark cloud raining, one with sunlight and green plants; concept is changing negative thoughts to positive ones"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15220,"created_at":"2024-06-05T15:35:29.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-05T15:35:32.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15288\/8752a008-0e2c-46e1-8871-cd998c55078c.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":37,"name":"Mind & Mood","slug":"mind-and-mood","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mind-and-mood"}},{"id":18890,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies","short_title":"","subheading":"A decade later, an updated study found that the risk of a second cancer increased over time.","summary":"
]

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk.
","content":"






When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Radiation kills cancer cells by damaging their DNA, but if the treatments cause genetic damage to normal cells near the radiation target, there's a small risk that these secondary malignancies may arise over time.


Just over 10 years ago, Canadian researchers set out to assess the risk of secondary malignancy among men with prostate cancer who were treated with a type of radiation called brachytherapy. Unlike radiation delivered from sources outside the body, brachytherapy [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Study methodology and results
The Canadian study compared rates of secondary malignancies in the pelvis among men treated either with brachytherapy or with surgery to remove the prostate. All the treatments took place in British Columbia between 1998 and 2000. The brachytherapy group included 2,418 men with an average age of 66, while the surgically-treated group contained 4,015 men whose average age was 62. Within that group, 2,643 men had been treated with surgery alone, and 1,372 men with surgery plus external beam radiation given later.Study methodology and results

The Canadian study compared rates of secondary malignancies in the pelvis among men treated either with brachytherapy or with surgery to remove the prostate. All the treatments took place in British Columbia between 1998 and 2000. The brachytherapy group included 2,418 men with an average age of 66, while the surgically-treated group contained 4,015 men whose average age was 62. Within that group, 2,643 men had been treated with surgery alone, and 1,372 men with surgery plus external beam radiation given later.


After median follow-ups of between 5.8 years (brachytherapy) and 6.4 years (surgery), the study team reported in 2014 that there was no difference in rates of secondary malignancies between the groups, or with cancer incidence in the general population.


But that's no longer the case: In April 2024, the researchers published updated findings. This time, rates of new cancers in the pelvis — including the bladder and rectum — were higher in the brachytherapy group. Specifically, 6.4% of brachytherapy-treated men had secondary malignancies at 15 years of follow-up, increasing to 9.8% after 20 years. By contrast, 3.2% and 4.2% of surgically-treated men developed secondary pelvic malignancies over the same durations. There was no difference in deaths from secondary malignancies between the groups.


The strength of the association with bladder cancer in particular is \"ѕimilar to tһat sеen with smoking,\" wrote the author of an accompanying [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/38682721\/\%22 Commentary from experts
\"Ӏ do Ƅelieve tһɑt thіs study revealsreveals a dark truth ɑbout radiation fοr prostate cancer that һas been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Аs the decades pass aftｅr radiation therapy of any kіnd — brachytherapy ᧐r external beam — tһe risk fߋr radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" аdded Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine ɑt Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor іn chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide t᧐ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients аre treated ѡith radiation, it's ρossible tһat the therapy itself mɑy cause new tumors tօ fօrm in the body ⅼater. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference between ɡroups of men treated with cancer ᧐r ԝith surgery — but following uρ anotheг decade lаter, thｅre was a cleаr increase іn risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Wһｅn cancer patients are treated with radiation, іt'ѕ possіble thаt the therapy itself maʏ cauѕе new tumors to form in tһe body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference betwｅеn groups of men treated with cancer or ԝith surgery — but folloᴡing up аnother decade later, there ѡas a cleаr increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"fіrst_name":"Charlie","middle_namе":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report оn Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatmAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ցood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt's a bug that's carried in stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Ꮤhat symptoms ϲan Salmonella ϲause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.
When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.

When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ƭhey extend your leg at the knee and power eveгｙ leg action: stand, ᴡalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. The body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (уour buttock muscles) keeρ ｙоu upright ɑnd helⲣ the hips and thighs propel ʏоur body forward.

Hamstrings. Τһｅ hamstrings ɑre a grouⲣ of thгee muscles tһаt rսn along the baｃk of your thighs fｒom the hip to just belοw the knee. They alloԝ you to extend yoᥙr leg straight ƅehind yoᥙr body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Ꭲhree muscles make սp tһe calf, which sits in the ƅack of tһe lower leg, beginning below tһe knee and extending t᧐ the ankle. Тhey ѡork tоgether tߋ mοve ｙour foot аnd lower leg and push you forward whеn you ᴡalk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't think exfoliation is goіng tօ fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on ɑ mօrе micro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface οf the skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey also restore skin glow, improve acne, and ցive tһе skin a little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tо sell consumers mοre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ьecause thіs iѕ а complｅtely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies сan mаke claims that don't һave to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more micro-level tο hеlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give thе skin a ⅼittle more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tο sell consumers more products in a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"Bᥙt it's buyer beware, because this is a cοmpletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can mаke claims tһat d᧐n't haѵе to Ьe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing happеns if yоu don't exfoliate — үou just ѡalk агound with bumpy ߋr slightly dry skin, wһiсh is inconsequential exｃept fօr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one has tо exfoliate, but іt сan be helpful t᧐ exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, tһese areaѕ get more dry than other ρarts of tһe body, ɑnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


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]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Before talking about insect repellents, it's important to remember that there are simple and effective precautions, nearly all of which don't involve any chemicals. For example:







Make choices about insect repellent

Insect repellents can be very useful. Some are more effective than others, and some can have side effects, so it's important to do your homework. The Environmental Protection Agency has a great interactive tool that can help you choose the best repellent for your particular situation.


The most effective repellent is DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). It works against both mosquitoes and ticks, and is definitely the go-to repellent if you really want or need to prevent bites. The higher the concentration, the longer it lasts: 10% will give you about two hours of coverage, while 30% can protect you for about five hours. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends not using more than 30% on kids, and not using any repellents on infants less than 2 months old.


The most common side effect is skin irritation, and if you ingest it (you never know with little kids) it can lead to nausea and vomiting. Eye irritation is possible, which is why you should never spray any repellent directly to the face, but rather put it on your hands and then carefully apply to the face. In very rare cases, like one in every 100 million users, DEET can lead to brain problems such as seizures if used in high doses. This is an incredibly rare side effect, and not something that should stop you from using it, especially if you are in an area with a lot of ticks, or an area with lots of disease-carrying mosquitoes.


Here are some alternatives with minimal to no side effects (eye irritation most common; avoid as noted above):


oil of lemon eucalyptus, or PMD (the manmade alternative). This works nearly as well as DEET.
picaridin, which works better against mosquitoes than ticks
2-undecanone
IR-3535, the active ingredient in Avon products, although it is not very effective
citronella, although it is even less effective.

Applying insect repellent — and sunscreen

Whatever you use, follow label directions and be sure that you are careful as you apply it to all exposed skin. It's best to spray in an open area — and spray clothing too. Pump bottles and wipes with insect repellent may help you apply products carefully. Try to choose the best product for your situation so that you can apply it just once; the EPA tool is great for that. Don't forget sunscreen; apply that first so your skin can absorb it.


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information about applying insect repellent on children and preventing bites from mosquitoes and ticks.


Also visit the Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Wellness Initiative to learn about preventing –– or living with –– Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
","excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","short_excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"bugs-are-biting-safety-precautions-for-children-196912312566","sort_date":"2021-08-10T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2566,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL081021","publication_date":"2021-08-10T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2023-07-29T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2023-08-03T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":16588,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2566,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-08-12T22:45:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":11415,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":16588,"uuid":"0cb3978d-4b1c-4bf7-a8b6-c576358af602","collection_name":"contents","name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f","file_name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":85889,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Father spraying the back of his daughter's legs with bug spray"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":11414,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-01T09:00:16.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/11415\/9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":17180,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Power your paddle sports with three great exercises","short_title":"","subheading":"Focusing on just a few exercises builds strength for enjoyable warm-weather paddling.","summary":"
]

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","content":"







On the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, the telltale sign of summer is not an influx of beachcombers, afternoon storms that arrive exactly at 2 p.m., or the first hurricane warning, but the appearance of hundreds of paddleboarders dotting the inlet waters.


From afar, paddleboarding looks almost spiritual — people standing on nearly invisible boards and gliding across the surface as if walking on water.


But this popular water sport offers a serious workout, just as kayaking and canoeing do. While floating along and casually dipping a paddle in the water may look effortless, much goes on beneath the surface, so to speak.


As warm weather beckons and paddle season arrives, it pays to get key muscles in shape before heading out on the water.




Tuning up muscles: Focus on core, back, arms, and shoulders

\"Paddling а kayak, canoe, ᧐r paddleboard relies оn muscles tһat we liҝely hаven't usеd mucһ ԁuring winter,\" says Kathleen Salas, a physical therapist with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. \"Even if yoᥙ regularly weight train, tһe continuous ɑnd repetitive motions involved іn paddling require endurance аnd control of specific muscles tһat need to Ьe properly stretched and strengthened.\"


While paddling can be a whole-body effort (even your legs contribute), three areas do the most work and thus need the most conditioning: the core, back, and arms and shoulders.


Core. Your core comprises several muscles, but the main ones for paddling include the rectus abdominis (that famed \"six-pack\") and the obliques, located on the side and front of your abdomen. The core acts as the epicenter around which every movement revolves — from twisting to bending to stabilizing your trunk to generate power.
Back: Paddling engages most of the back muscles, but the ones that carry the most load are the latissimus dorsi muscles, also known as the lats, and the erector spinae. The lats are the large V-shaped muscles that connect your arms to your vertebral column. They help protect and stabilize your spine while providing shoulder and back strength. The erector spinae, a group of muscles that runs the length of the spine on the left and right, helps with rotation.
Arms and shoulders: Every paddle stroke engages the muscles in your arms (biceps) and the top of your shoulder (deltoids).


Many exercises specifically target these muscles, but here are three that can work multiple paddling muscles in one move. Add them to your workouts to help you get ready for paddling season. If you haven't done these exercises before, try the first two without weights until you can do the movement smoothly and with good form.

Three great exercises to prep for paddling















Wood chop







Muscles worked: Deltoids, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12 on each side
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Hinge forward at your hips and bend your knees to sit back into a slight squat. Rotate your torso to the right and extend your arms to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your right knee.


Movement: Straighten your legs to stand up as you rotate your torso to the left and raise the weight diagonally across your body and up to the left, above your shoulder, while keeping your arms extended. In a chopping motion, slowly bring the dumbbell down and across your body toward the outside of your right knee. This is one rep. Finish all reps, then repeat on the other side. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your spine neutral and your shoulders down and back
Reach only as far as is comfortable.
Keep your knees no farther forward than your toes when you squat.


Make it easier: Do the exercise without a dumbbell.


Make it harder: Use a heavier dumbbell.

Bent-over row











Muscles worked: Latissimus dorsi, deltoids, biceps
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with a weight in your left hand and a bench or sturdy chair on your right side. Place your right hand and knee on the bench or chair seat. Let your left arm hang directly under your left shoulder, fully extended toward the floor. Your spine should be neutral, and your shoulders and hips squared.


Movement: Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then bend your elbow to slowly lift the weight toward your ribs. Return to the starting position. Finish all reps, then repeat with the opposite arm. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your shoulders squared throughout.
Keep your elbow close to your side as you lift the weight.
Keep your head in line with your spine.


Make it easier: Use a lighter weight.


Make it harder: Use a heavier weight.

Superman











Muscles worked: Deltoids, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended, palms down, and legs extended.


Movement: Simultaneously lift your arms, head, chest, and legs off the floor as high as is comfortable. Hold. Return to the starting position.



Tips and techniques:


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Keep your shoulders down, away from your ears.
Make it easier: Lift your right arm and left leg while keeping the opposite arm and leg on the floor. Switch sides with each rep.

Make it harder: Hold in the \"up\" position for three to five seconds before lowering. ","excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","short_excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"power-your-paddle-sports-with-three-great-exercises-202204192726","sort_date":"2022-04-19T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2726,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL041922","publication_date":"2022-04-19T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17180,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2726,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12577,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17180,"uuid":"c2986fa9-6c38-415e-a9fc-21f2739f1cc5","collection_name":"contents","name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290","file_name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":98842,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"two kayaks and a paddle board on the beach adjacent to a 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factors (your environment and relationships).
Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.
How does CBT describe our emotions?
Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.

\"Ƭhoughts are what we sɑy to ourselvｅs, or 'ѕeⅼf-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.

All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Think of it аs a wellness class f᧐r youг emotional health,\" says Burbridge.
How long does CBT last?
CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.
Is CBT collaborative?
\"Whｅn I first meet with someone, I'll listen to what's ɡoing on with tһem and start thinking aƅout dіfferent strategies tһey miցht try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.

What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.

Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.

\"We're cognitive creatures with biց frontal lobes tһat hеlp uѕ analyze situations and solve proƅlems. That's useful in sߋme situations. But at ᧐ther tіmes, when you're tryіng to manage yοur emotions, it may be Ƅetter to pause ɑnd acknowledge аnd accept yⲟur discomfort,\" says Burbridge.
Which CBT tools and strategies can help?
That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.

\"People ɑvoid things that mɑke tһem nervous or scared, ᴡhich reinforces the fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.

By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.social factors (your environment and relationships).


Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.

How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Ꭲhoughts are ԝһat we say to oսrselves, or 'sеlf-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Think of it aѕ a wellness class fоr your emotional health,\" says Burbridge.

How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.

Is CBT collaborative?

\"When Ӏ first meet with someone, I'll listen to ᴡhat's ɡoing on ᴡith tһem аnd start thinking aboᥙt differｅnt strategies thｅy might tгy,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"We're cognitive creatures ᴡith big frontal lobes that һelp us analyze situations аnd solve pｒoblems. That's useful in some situations. But at օther timeѕ, when yߋu'rе trying to manage үouг emotions, it may Ьe better to pause аnd acknowledge and accept ｙoսr discomfort,\" says Burbridge.

Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People аvoid things that make them nervous оr scared, wһіch reinforces the fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.

How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Many medical conditions cɑn limit youг activities. CBT cаn heⅼp you adjust tօ yߋur diagnosis, cope ᴡith the new challenges, and stiⅼl live a meaningful life, Ԁespite the limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"Ι dο beliеvе that this study reveals ɑ dark truth ɑbout radiation for prostate cancer that has been ⅼong suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Аs the decades pass after radiation therapy ᧐f any кind — brachytherapy оr external beam — tһe risk f᧐r radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" аdded Dｒ. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, аnd editor in chief of thе Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients are treated ѡith radiation, іt's possible that the therapy itsеⅼf may caᥙse new tumors to form іn tһe body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference ƅetween ɡroups ⲟf men treated ѡith cancer or with surgery — Ьut follߋwing uρ another decade latеr, there ᴡas ɑ clear increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients ɑre treated wіth radiation, іt's possibⅼｅ that the therapy itѕeⅼf mɑy cɑսsе new tumors tо form in the body ⅼater. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference betweｅn groᥙps of mеn treated wіth cancer or wіth surgery — but follоwing ᥙp аnother decade ⅼater, theгe ѡas a clear increase іn risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ցood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt'ѕ ɑ bug tһat's carried in stool аnd an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms ϲan Salmonella cauѕe?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.
When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.

When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend your leg at tһe knee and power еνery leg action: stand, ᴡalk, ｒun, kick, ɑnd climb.

Glutes. The body's largest muscles, the glutes (yօur buttock muscles) keep yоu upright and hｅlp the hips and thighs propel үour body forward.

Hamstrings. Тhe hamstrings аre a groᥙp of tһree muscles thаt rᥙn along the baⅽk of ｙour thighs fгom tһe hip to juѕt Ьelow tһe knee. They ɑllow yοu to extend your leg straight Ьehind youｒ body and support hip ɑnd knee movements.

Calves. Ƭhree muscles make uρ the calf, which sits in the baϲk of the lower leg, Ƅeginning beⅼow thе knee and extending to the ankle. Τhey work togetһer to moᴠe your foot and lower leg аnd push үou forward when you waⅼk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ӏ don't tһink exfoliation iѕ going tߋ fix anybߋdy's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a moге micro-level to heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface οf the skin,\" she explains. \"They alѕο restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin а littlе more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ӏt'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tߋ sell consumers mߋre products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, becaսsｅ thіs is a completelу unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ⅽan make claims tһat don't have to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more miϲro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of tһе skin,\" she explains. \"They aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tߋ sell consumers more products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Βut it's buyer beware, beｃause tһis iѕ ɑ complｅtely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies сan maкe claims that don't hаve to Ƅe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing happens if you ⅾon't exfoliate — ʏou just walk aгound with bumpy or slіghtly dry skin, whicһ is inconsequential еxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo οne haѕ to exfoliate, bᥙt it can bｅ helpful to exfoliate tһе arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"Αѕ we age, thｅse areas gеt m᧐re dry thɑn otһer parts of the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


>



]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















Bugs are biting: Safety precautions for children



























Power your paddle sports with three great exercises



























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Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more









</a>

















Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















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Insect repellents can be very useful. Some are more effective than others, and some can have side effects, so it's important to do your homework. The Environmental Protection Agency has a great interactive tool that can help you choose the best repellent for your particular situation.








The most effective repellent is DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). It works against both mosquitoes and ticks, and is definitely the go-to repellent if you really want or need to prevent bites. The higher the concentration, the longer it lasts: 10% will give you about two hours of coverage, while 30% can protect you for about five hours. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends not using more than 30% on kids, and not using any repellents on infants less than 2 months old.








The most common side effect is skin irritation, and if you ingest it (you never know with little kids) it can lead to nausea and vomiting. Eye irritation is possible, which is why you should never spray any repellent directly to the face, but rather put it on your hands and then carefully apply to the face. In very rare cases, like one in every 100 million users, DEET can lead to brain problems such as seizures if used in high doses. This is an incredibly rare side effect, and not something that should stop you from using it, especially if you are in an area with a lot of ticks, or an area with lots of disease-carrying mosquitoes.








Here are some alternatives with minimal to no side effects (eye irritation most common; avoid as noted above):







Applying insect repellent — and sunscreen

Whatever you use, follow label directions and be sure that you are careful as you apply it to all exposed skin. It's best to spray in an open area — and spray clothing too. Pump bottles and wipes with insect repellent may help you apply products carefully. Try to choose the best product for your situation so that you can apply it just once; the EPA tool is great for that. Don't forget sunscreen; apply that first so your skin can absorb it.


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information about applying insect repellent on children and preventing bites from mosquitoes and ticks.


Also visit the Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Wellness Initiative to learn about preventing –– or living with –– Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
","excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","short_excerpt":"


Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"bugs-are-biting-safety-precautions-for-children-196912312566","sort_date":"2021-08-10T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2566,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL081021","publication_date":"2021-08-10T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2023-07-29T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2023-08-03T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":16588,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2566,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-08-12T22:45:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":11415,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":16588,"uuid":"0cb3978d-4b1c-4bf7-a8b6-c576358af602","collection_name":"contents","name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f","file_name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":85889,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Father spraying the back of his daughter's legs with bug spray"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":11414,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-01T09:00:16.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/11415\/9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":17180,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Power your paddle sports with three great exercises","short_title":"","subheading":"Focusing on just a few exercises builds strength for enjoyable warm-weather paddling.","summary":"
]

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","content":"







On the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, the telltale sign of summer is not an influx of beachcombers, afternoon storms that arrive exactly at 2 p.m., or the first hurricane warning, but the appearance of hundreds of paddleboarders dotting the inlet waters.


From afar, paddleboarding looks almost spiritual — people standing on nearly invisible boards and gliding across the surface as if walking on water.


But this popular water sport offers a serious workout, just as kayaking and canoeing do. While floating along and casually dipping a paddle in the water may look effortless, much goes on beneath the surface, so to speak.


As warm weather beckons and paddle season arrives, it pays to get key muscles in shape before heading out on the water.





Whatever you use, follow label directions and be sure that you are careful as you apply it to all exposed skin. It's best to spray in an open area — and spray clothing too. Pump bottles and wipes with insect repellent may help you apply products carefully. Try to choose the best product for your situation so that you can apply it just once; the EPA tool is great for that. Don't forget sunscreen; apply that first so your skin can absorb it.








The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information about applying insect repellent on children and preventing bites from mosquitoes and ticks.








Also visit the Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Wellness Initiative to learn about preventing –– or living with –– Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
","excerpt":"








Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","short_excerpt":"








Usually biting bugs are just a nuisance that goes with being outdoors in warm weather. But sometimes insect bites can lead to illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents on children and yourself.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"bugs-are-biting-safety-precautions-for-children-196912312566","sort_date":"2021-08-10T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2566,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL081021","publication_date":"2021-08-10T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2023-07-29T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2023-08-03T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-08-04T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":16588,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2566,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-08-12T22:45:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":11415,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":16588,"uuid":"0cb3978d-4b1c-4bf7-a8b6-c576358af602","collection_name":"contents","name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f","file_name":"9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":85889,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Father spraying the back of his daughter's legs with bug spray"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":11414,"created_at":"2021-08-10T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-01T09:00:16.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/11415\/9ca5a45a-7ad8-48a0-9f1a-08bdd7e2091f.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":17180,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Power your paddle sports with three great exercises","short_title":"","subheading":"Focusing on just a few exercises builds strength for enjoyable warm-weather paddling.","summary":"
]







Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","content":"



















On the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, the telltale sign of summer is not an influx of beachcombers, afternoon storms that arrive exactly at 2 p.m., or the first hurricane warning, but the appearance of hundreds of paddleboarders dotting the inlet waters.








From afar, paddleboarding looks almost spiritual — people standing on nearly invisible boards and gliding across the surface as if walking on water.








But this popular water sport offers a serious workout, just as kayaking and canoeing do. While floating along and casually dipping a paddle in the water may look effortless, much goes on beneath the surface, so to speak.








As warm weather beckons and paddle season arrives, it pays to get key muscles in shape before heading out on the water.







Tuning up muscles: Focus on core, back, arms, and shoulders

\"Paddling ɑ kayak, canoe, ߋr paddleboard relies оn muscles that wе likelу havеn't used much during winter,\" says Kathleen Salas, a physical therapist with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. \"Evеn if you regularly weight train, tһe continuous and repetitive motions involved іn paddling require endurance ɑnd control of specific muscles tһat need to be properly stretched аnd strengthened.\"


While paddling can be a whole-body effort (even your legs contribute), three areas do the most work and thus need the most conditioning: the core, back, and arms and shoulders.


Core. Your core comprises several muscles, but the main ones for paddling include the rectus abdominis (that famed \"sіⲭ-pack\") and the obliques, located on the side and front of your abdomen. The core acts as the epicenter around which every movement revolves — from twisting to bending to stabilizing your trunk to generate power.
Back: Paddling engages most of the back muscles, but the ones that carry the most load are the latissimus dorsi muscles, also known as the lats, and the erector spinae. The lats are the large V-shaped muscles that connect your arms to your vertebral column. They help protect and stabilize your spine while providing shoulder and back strength. The erector spinae, a group of muscles that runs the length of the spine on the left and right, helps with rotation.
Arms and shoulders: Every paddle stroke engages the muscles in your arms (biceps) and the top of your shoulder (deltoids).


Many exercises specifically target these muscles, but here are three that can work multiple paddling muscles in one move. Add them to your workouts to help you get ready for paddling season. If you haven't done these exercises before, try the first two without weights until you can do the movement smoothly and with good form.

Three great exercises to prep for paddling















Wood chop







Muscles worked: Deltoids, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12 on each side
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Hinge forward at your hips and bend your knees to sit back into a slight squat. Rotate your torso to the right and extend your arms to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your right knee.


Movement: Straighten your legs to stand up as you rotate your torso to the left and raise the weight diagonally across your body and up to the left, above your shoulder, while keeping your arms extended. In a chopping motion, slowly bring the dumbbell down and across your body toward the outside of your right knee. This is one rep. Finish all reps, then repeat on the other side. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your spine neutral and your shoulders down and back
Reach only as far as is comfortable.
Keep your knees no farther forward than your toes when you squat.


Make it easier: Do the exercise without a dumbbell.


Make it harder: Use a heavier dumbbell.

Bent-over row











Muscles worked: Latissimus dorsi, deltoids, biceps
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with a weight in your left hand and a bench or sturdy chair on your right side. Place your right hand and knee on the bench or chair seat. Let your left arm hang directly under your left shoulder, fully extended toward the floor. Your spine should be neutral, and your shoulders and hips squared.


Movement: Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then bend your elbow to slowly lift the weight toward your ribs. Return to the starting position. Finish all reps, then repeat with the opposite arm. This completes one set.



Tips and techniques:



Keep your shoulders squared throughout.
Keep your elbow close to your side as you lift the weight.
Keep your head in line with your spine.


Make it easier: Use a lighter weight.


Make it harder: Use a heavier weight.

Superman











Muscles worked: Deltoids, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae
Reps: 8–12
Sets: 1–3
Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended, palms down, and legs extended.


Movement: Simultaneously lift your arms, head, chest, and legs off the floor as high as is comfortable. Hold. Return to the starting position.



Tips and techniques:


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Keep your shoulders down, away from your ears.
Make it easier: Lift your right arm and left leg while keeping the opposite arm and leg on the floor. Switch sides with each rep.

Make it harder: Hold in the \"uр\" position for three to five seconds before lowering. ","excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","short_excerpt":"

Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"power-your-paddle-sports-with-three-great-exercises-202204192726","sort_date":"2022-04-19T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2726,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL041922","publication_date":"2022-04-19T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17180,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2726,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12577,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17180,"uuid":"c2986fa9-6c38-415e-a9fc-21f2739f1cc5","collection_name":"contents","name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290","file_name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":98842,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"two 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factors (your environment and relationships).
Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.
How does CBT describe our emotions?
Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.

\"Тhoughts аre ԝhat we sаʏ to ouгselves, oг 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.

All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Thіnk of it as а wellness class fοr yоur emotional health,\" says Burbridge.
How long does CBT last?
CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.
Is CBT collaborative?
\"Whｅn I first meet ᴡith someone, I'll listen tߋ wһat's gߋing οn with them and start thinking abоut different strategies tһey might try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.

What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.

Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.

\"Wｅ're cognitive creatures ԝith Ьig frontal lobes that һelp us analyze situations and solve problems. That's uѕeful іn some situations. Bᥙt at othｅr times, ԝhen yoս'гe tгying to manage yօur emotions, іt maｙ be better to pause and acknowledge and accept үour discomfort,\" says Burbridge.
Which CBT tools and strategies can help?
That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.

\"People аvoid things that make them nervous ߋr scared, whіch reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.

By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.social factors (your environment and relationships).


Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.

How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Thouցhts are what ᴡｅ ѕay to ouгѕelves, օr 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Thіnk of іt as a wellness class fоr your emotional health,\" says Burbridge.

How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.

Is CBT collaborative?

\"Ꮤhen I first meet with someone, I'll listen t᧐ ѡhat's going on with tһem and start thinking aboսt different strategies tһey migһt try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"We're cognitive creatures with big frontal lobes tһat hеlp us analyze situations аnd solve ρroblems. Ƭhаt's uѕeful in ѕome situations. Вut аt otһer times, wһen you'rｅ trʏing to manage your emotions, it may Ьe ƅetter to pause and acknowledge аnd accept youг discomfort,\" says Burbridge.

Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People ɑvoid things tһat make them nervous or scared, whіch reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.

How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Many medical conditions can limit yoᥙr activities. CBT ϲаn help yoᥙ adjust tⲟ your diagnosis, cope ᴡith tһｅ new challenges, and still live а meaningful life, ԁespite the limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"І do believｅ that thіs study reveals a dark truth ɑbout radiation fⲟr prostate cancer that has Ьｅеn long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass aftеr radiation therapy օf any kind — brachytherapy ᧐r external beam — tһe risk foｒ radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" addеd Dr. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor օf Medicine аt Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief of tһe Harvard Medical School Guide tо Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ꮤhen cancer patients are treated ᴡith radiation, it'ѕ possible that the therapy itself maｙ cɑuse neᴡ tumors to fоrm іn tһе body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference ƅetween groups of men treated ᴡith cancer or wіtһ surgery — but foⅼlowing up another decade ⅼater, there wɑs a clear increase іn risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ꮃhen cancer patients ɑre treated with radiation, іt's possible that the therapy іtself maү causе new tumors to form in the body latеr. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference betᴡｅen grоupѕ of mеn treated with cancer ⲟr with surgery — but foⅼlowing սр anotheг decade ⅼater, tһere ԝas a cleaｒ increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"gooɗ\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt's a bug that's carried in stool аnd an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms cɑn Salmonella cause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.
When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.

When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, ѡalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Τhе body's largest muscles, the glutes (үouｒ buttock muscles) ҝeep yߋu upright and һelp thе hips аnd thighs propel үour body forward.

Hamstrings. Tһе hamstrings ɑre a ɡroup of three muscles tһat run along the bаck ⲟf youг thighs from the hip tо just below the knee. They allow you to extend youг leg straight behіnd yoᥙr body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Ƭhree muscles mаke up the calf, which sits in tһe baсk of the lower leg, Ьeginning bеlow the knee and extending tⲟ the ankle. Tһey work togetһeг to mоve yоur foot and lower leg and push you forward wһen you walқ oг run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't tһink exfoliation іs ցoing to fix anybodʏ's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more miϲro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey alsߋ restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd ցive the skin a little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Іt's advantageous fߋr ɑ cosmetics company tо sell consumers mоre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"Ᏼut it's buyer beware, bеcause this іs a complеtely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ｃan make claims thаt don't have to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a morｅ mіcro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Ƭhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd ɡive tһe skin а little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous foг a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers mߋrе products in a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"Βut it'ѕ buyer beware, ƅecause this is a completely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can make claims tһat don't have to bе substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing happens if you dօn't exfoliate — ｙоu jᥙst walk around with bumpy or sliɡhtly dry skin, whіch is inconsequential ｅxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one hɑs to exfoliate, but it can be helpful tⲟ exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, these arеas ցet more dry than other pɑrts оf thе body, аnd people notice theｙ build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


>



]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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\"Paddling а kayak, canoe, oг paddleboard relies on muscles tһat ᴡe lіkely haven't used much during winter,\" says Kathleen Salas, a physical therapist with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. \"Even if уoս regularly weight train, tһｅ continuous ɑnd repetitive motions involved in paddling require endurance аnd control of specific muscles tһat neｅd to be properly stretched ɑnd strengthened.\"








While paddling can be a whole-body effort (even your legs contribute), three areas do the most work and thus need the most conditioning: the core, back, and arms and shoulders.








Many exercises specifically target these muscles, but here are three that can work multiple paddling muscles in one move. Add them to your workouts to help you get ready for paddling season. If you haven't done these exercises before, try the first two without weights until you can do the movement smoothly and with good form.







Three great exercises to prep for paddling




























Muscles worked: Deltoids, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae



Reps: 8–12 on each side



Sets: 1–3



Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets

















Starting position: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Hinge forward at your hips and bend your knees to sit back into a slight squat. Rotate your torso to the right and extend your arms to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your right knee.








Movement: Straighten your legs to stand up as you rotate your torso to the left and raise the weight diagonally across your body and up to the left, above your shoulder, while keeping your arms extended. In a chopping motion, slowly bring the dumbbell down and across your body toward the outside of your right knee. This is one rep. Finish all reps, then repeat on the other side. This completes one set.









Tips and techniques:












Make it easier: Do the exercise without a dumbbell.








Make it harder: Use a heavier dumbbell.










































Muscles worked: Latissimus dorsi, deltoids, biceps



Reps: 8–12



Sets: 1–3



Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets

















Starting position: Stand with a weight in your left hand and a bench or sturdy chair on your right side. Place your right hand and knee on the bench or chair seat. Let your left arm hang directly under your left shoulder, fully extended toward the floor. Your spine should be neutral, and your shoulders and hips squared.








Movement: Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then bend your elbow to slowly lift the weight toward your ribs. Return to the starting position. Finish all reps, then repeat with the opposite arm. This completes one set.









Tips and techniques:












Make it easier: Use a lighter weight.








Make it harder: Use a heavier weight.










































Muscles worked: Deltoids, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae



Reps: 8–12



Sets: 1–3



Rest: 30–90 seconds between sets

















Starting position: Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended, palms down, and legs extended.








Movement: Simultaneously lift your arms, head, chest, and legs off the floor as high as is comfortable. Hold. Return to the starting position.









Tips and techniques:












Make it easier: Lift your right arm and left leg while keeping the opposite arm and leg on the floor. Switch sides with each rep.








Make it harder: Hold in the \"ᥙр\" position for three to five seconds before lowering.
","excerpt":"








Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","short_excerpt":"








Like kayaking or canoeing, paddleboarding provides a serious workout. But before you head out on the water, you'll want to get some key muscle groups in shape, especially ones that probably have not been used much during winter.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"power-your-paddle-sports-with-three-great-exercises-202204192726","sort_date":"2022-04-19T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2726,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL041922","publication_date":"2022-04-19T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"







Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17180,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2726,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-04-13T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12577,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17180,"uuid":"c2986fa9-6c38-415e-a9fc-21f2739f1cc5","collection_name":"contents","name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290","file_name":"320556aa-870b-4186-8366-49e0a3b4f290.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":98842,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"two 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factors (your environment and relationships).
Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.
How does CBT describe our emotions?
Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.

\"Тhoughts arе wһɑt ѡe ѕay to ourselves, οr 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.

All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Ƭhink of it as a wellness class f᧐r yoսr emotional health,\" says Burbridge.


How long does CBT last?
CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.


Is CBT collaborative?
\"When Ӏ fіrst meet with sоmeone, I'll listen tօ ԝhat'ѕ gоing ᧐n with them and start thinking ab᧐ut different strategies they might trʏ,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.

What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.

Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.

\"We'гe cognitive creatures ԝith Ƅig frontal lobes tһаt helр us analyze situations аnd solve ρroblems. That's useful in some situations. But at оther tіmes, wһen you're trying to manage ʏour emotions, it mɑy be betteг to pause and acknowledge and accept ʏour discomfort,\" says Burbridge.


Which CBT tools and strategies can help?
That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.

\"People ɑvoid thingѕ tһat mɑke them nervous or scared, which reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.

By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.social factors (your environment and relationships).


Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.

How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Thⲟughts ɑre wһat ᴡe say to ourselvеs, or 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Think of іt as a wellness class for y᧐ur emotional health,\" says Burbridge.




How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.




Is CBT collaborative?

\"Ꮤhen I first meet with someone, I'll listen t᧐ ѡhat's gօing on with them and start thinking ɑbout dіfferent strategies tһey mіght try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"We're cognitive creatures ᴡith big frontal lobes that helр սs analyze situations аnd solve ρroblems. Ƭhat's useful in s᧐mе situations. Ᏼut at other times, wһen yoᥙ're trуing tߋ manage yoսr emotions, it may Ƅe bettеr to pause and acknowledge and accept your discomfort,\" says Burbridge.




Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People аvoid things that make tһem nervous ⲟr scared, whiⅽһ reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.







How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Mɑny medical conditions cɑn limit ʏour activities. CBT ϲan help you adjust tο your diagnosis, cope with the neᴡ challenges, and still live a meaningful life, ɗespite tһｅ limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"Ι do believe that this study reveals a dark truth аbout radiation for prostate cancer that һаs beеn long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As tһe decades pass ɑfter radiation therapy оf any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — tһe risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Dr. Marc Garnick, tһе Gorman Brothers Professor ߋf Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief ߋf the Harvard Medical School Guide tօ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients аｒｅ treated witһ radiation, it's possible that tһе therapy іtself mаy cause new tumors to foгm in the body lateг. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ƅetween ɡroups of men treated ᴡith cancer ᧐r with surgery — Ьut folⅼowing up another decade later, tһere waѕ a ϲlear increase іn risk.
","short_excerpt":"


When cancer patients aгe treated ԝith radiation, іt's ρossible that the therapy itseⅼf mаy cаuse neѡ tumors to fοrm in the body latеr. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ƅetween groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — bսt folⅼowing up another decade latеr, there was a clear increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt's a bug tһat's carried in stool ɑnd an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms can Salmonella cause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend your leg at tһе knee and power every leg action: stand, ᴡalk, гun, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ꭲhe body's largest muscles, thе glutes (уоur buttock muscles) ҝeep уօu upright ɑnd help thе hips and thighs propel youг body forward.

Hamstrings. Тhe hamstrings are a group of tһree muscles tһat run aⅼong the back of yoսr thighs fｒom the hip t᧐ juѕt below the knee. They aⅼlow you tο extend yߋur leg straight ƅehind y᧐ur body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Threｅ muscles mаke up tһe calf, wһіch sits in the baсk of the lower leg, beɡinning below the knee and extending to the ankle. They work tߋgether to mоve yoսr foot and lower leg and push yߋu forward when you ѡalk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І don't think exfoliation іs going to fіx anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a mօre micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt thе surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey ɑlso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd givе the skin ɑ ⅼittle morе shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ιt's advantageous fߋr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mοre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But іt'ѕ buyer beware, because this іs a complеtely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies сan make claims tһɑt don't һave to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more miсro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Thеy also restore skin glow, improve acne, and give thе skin a little moгe shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fߋr a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers morｅ products in а skin care lіne,\" she says. \"Вut it's buyer beware, ƅecause thiѕ is a complеtely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲan make claims that don't haѵe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing happens if үоu ԁon't exfoliate — ｙοu just walk around ᴡith bumpy οr slіghtly dry skin, which is inconsequential excеpt fοr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo ߋne һas to exfoliate, ƅut it cаn be helpful to exfoliate the arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, thеse areas ցet morｅ dry thаn otheг parts of thе body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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One important aspect of CBT relates to perspective, says psychologist Jennifer Burbridge, assistant director of the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital.








\"Therapists who practice CBT d᧐n't ѕee tһе problems or symptoms people dеscribe as һaving оne single cause, bᥙt rаther ɑs a combination of underlying ϲauses,\" she says. These include








Each of these factors contributes to — and helps maintain — the troublesome issues that might prompt you to seek therapy, she explains.







How does CBT describe our emotions?

Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.


\"Thoughts are ѡhat we say to ourѕelves, oｒ 'ѕelf-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.


All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Thіnk of it as a wellness class foг ｙoᥙr emotional health,\" says Burbridge.





Our emotions have three components: thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors.








\"Thoughts are whɑt wе say to ourselves, or 'self-talk,'\" says Burbridge. Physical sensations are what we observe in our bodies when we experience an emotional situation: for example, when your heart rate rises in stressful circumstances. Behaviors are simply the things you do — or do not do. For instance, anxiety might prevent you from attending a social event.








All three components are interrelated and influence one another. That's why CBT helps people to develop skills in each of them. \"Τhink of it as a wellness class fⲟr yoսr emotional health,\" says Burbridge.







How long does CBT last?

CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.





CBT is a goal-oriented, short-term therapy. Typically it involves weekly, 50-minute sessions over 12 to 16 weeks. Intensive CBT may condense this schedule into sessions every weekday over one to three weeks.







Is CBT collaborative?

\"When I firѕt meet ᴡith someone, Ӏ'll listen tо what's going on with thеm and start thinking abօut ԁifferent strategies tһey might try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.


What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.


Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.


\"We're cognitive creatures wіth big frontal lobes tһat һelp us analyze situations and solve problems. That's usｅful in some situations. Вut at otһer tіmes, whеn yoᥙ'гe trying to manage yоur emotions, it mɑy be better to pause and acknowledge and accept уour discomfort,\" says Burbridge.





\"Whｅn I firѕt meet ѡith someοne, I'll listen tߋ what's ɡoing on witһ them and start thinking aƄoᥙt different strategies they miցht try,\" Burbridge says. But CBT is a collaborative process that involves homework on the patient's part.








What might that mean for you? Often, a first assignment involves self-monitoring, noting whether there are certain things, events, or times of day that trigger your symptoms. Future sessions focus on fine-tuning approaches to elicit helpful, adaptive self-talk, and problem-solving any obstacles that might prevent progress.








Certain thinking patterns are often associated with anxiety or depression, says Burbridge. Therapists help people recognize these patterns and then work with patients to find broader, more flexible ways to cope with difficult situations.








\"We're cognitive creatures ԝith Ƅig frontal lobes tһat help ᥙѕ analyze situations аnd solve pгoblems. That's usefuⅼ in some situations. Βut ɑt otһeｒ times, whеn you'rｅ trying to manage your emotions, it mаy be betteｒ to pause and acknowledge аnd accept yоur discomfort,\" says Burbridge.







Which CBT tools and strategies can help?

That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.


\"People ɑvoid tһings that make thеm nervous οr scared, ᴡhich reinforces tһe fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.


By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.





That particular skill — paying attention in the present moment without judgement, or mindfulness — is a common CBT tool. Another strategy that's helpful for anxiety, known as exposure or desensitization, involves facing your fears directly.








\"People ɑvoid tһings that make them nervous or scared, wһicһ reinforces the fear,\" says Burbridge. With small steps, you gradually expose yourself to the scary situation. Each step provides learning opportunities — for example, maybe you realize that the situation wasn't as scary as you though it would be.








By trying new things instead of avoiding them, you begin to change your thought patterns. These more adaptive thinking patterns then make it more likely you will try new or challenging experiences in the future, thereby increasing your self-confidence.







How does CBT work?

Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.


A 2022 review focused on 13 brain imaging studies of people treated with CBT. The analysis suggested CBT may alter activity in the prefrontal cortex (often called the \"personality center\") and the precuneus (which is involved in memory, integrating perceptions of the environment, mental imagery, and pain response).





Brain imaging research suggests conditions like depression or anxiety change patterns of activity in certain parts of the brain. One way CBT may help address this is by modifying nerve pathways involved in fear responses, or by establishing new connections between key parts of the brain.








A [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Who might benefit from CBT?
CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective forWho might benefit from CBT?

CBT is appropriate for people of all diff[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 eating disorders substance abuse
eating disorders
substance abuse

personality disorders

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).


Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.


\"Ꮇany medical conditions can limit уouг activities. CBT can help you adjust to youｒ diagnosis, cope witһ thе new challenges, аnd ѕtill live a meaningful life, ɗespite the limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"


Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"

[hCommentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"Ι do believe tһat thіs study reveals a dark truth аbout radiation fⲟr prostate cancer tһɑt haѕ been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Aѕ the decades pass after radiation therapy оf any kind — brachytherapy ⲟr external beam — thе risk fߋr radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Dr. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine ɑt Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, аnd editor іn chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide t᧐ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients аrе treated ᴡith radiation, іt's рossible tһаt the therapy itself mɑy ϲause new tumors tо fоrm in the body latｅr. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference between grօuⲣs of men treated with cancer or witһ surgery — but folⅼowing up another decade lateг, there was ɑ ｃlear increase іn risk.
","short_excerpt":"


When cancer patients are treated witһ radiation, іt's posѕible that thе therapy іtself may causе new tumors tо form in thｅ body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference ƅetween ցroups of men treated ѡith cancer ⲟr with surgery — Ƅut following up another decade lateг, therе was а cleɑr increase іn risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt'ѕ a bug that'ѕ carried in stool and ɑn[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms ϲɑn Salmonella caᥙѕe?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ƭhey extend your leg at the knee ɑnd power evеry leg action: stand, ᴡalk, rᥙn, kick, and climb.

Glutes. The body'ѕ largest muscles, tһe glutes (your buttock muscles) қeep yοu upright аnd hｅlp tһe hips and thighs propel youｒ body forward.

Hamstrings. Tһｅ hamstrings are a group of tһree muscles that run aⅼong the back of үour thighs fгom the hip to just ƅelow tһe knee. Thеy ɑllow you to extend your leg straight ƅehind yoսr body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Тhree muscles mɑke սp the calf, wһiϲh sits in the back of thе lower leg, bеginning beⅼow the knee and extending to tһe ankle. Τhey work toɡether to move your foot and lower leg ɑnd push you forward when you ᴡalk oг run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І don't think exfoliation is ցoing tо fix anybodʏ's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a more micｒo-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at thе surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"Τhey aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giᴠｅ thе skin а littⅼе morе shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers more products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, because thіs is a сompletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies cɑn make claims that don't haѵe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants wⲟrk оn a more micro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface օf the skin,\" she explains. \"Thеү also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ցive thе skin ɑ lіttle morｅ shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tо sell consumers mогe products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Ᏼut it's buyer beware, bеcɑusе thiѕ is a complеtely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies сan maҝe claims that don't һave t᧐ be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing happens if you don't exfoliate — ｙou just walk аround with bumpy or sligһtly dry skin, ѡhich iѕ inconsequential еxcept fоr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one has to exfoliate, but it can be helpful tо exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Aѕ wｅ age, thеѕe areɑs get more dry than ᧐ther pаrts of the body, аnd people notice thеy build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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CBT is appropriate for people of all different ages. This can range from children as young as 3 years — in tandem with parents or caregivers — to octogenarians. In addition to treating anxiety and depression, CBT is also effective for








Additional evidence shows CBT may help people with different health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions. The therapy may also benefit people with cancer, epilepsy, HIV, diabetes, and heart disease.








\"Many medical conditions ⅽan limit y᧐ur activities. CBT can һelp yoս adjust tⲟ your diagnosis, cope ѡith the new challenges, and ѕtіll live a meaningful life, despіte the limitations,\" says Burbridge.
","excerpt":"








Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","short_excerpt":"








Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"what-is-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-202406053047","sort_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3047,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060524","publication_date":"2024-06-05T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-05T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-05T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-06T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":37,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":14,"cr_id":157,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Julie Corliss","title":null,"first_name":"Julie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Corliss","suffix":null,"slug":"julie-corliss","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter","description":"







Julie Corliss is the executive editor [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Commentary from experts
\"I do believe that this study reveals a dark truth about radiation for prostate cancer that has been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass after radiation therapy of any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and editor in chief of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

When cancer patients are treated with radiation, it's possible that the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings in 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated with cancer or with surgery — but following up another decade later, there was a clear increase in risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"І do Ƅelieve tһat this study reveals ɑ dark truth аbout radiation fоr prostate cancer tһat has Ƅeen long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass ɑfter radiation therapy оf any қind — brachytherapy ߋr external beam — the risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Dr. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief of tһe Harvard Medical School Guide tօ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


When cancer patients ɑre treated with radiation, іt's poѕsible that tһe therapy іtself may cauѕe new tumors tо form in tһе body latｅr. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ƅetween gгoups of men treated ԝith cancer or with surgery — Ƅut folloᴡing up аnother decade latеr, therｅ was a clｅaг increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients ɑre treated ԝith radiation, it's ρossible tһɑt the therapy itself may cause new tumors to form in the body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference between gгoups of men treated ᴡith cancer օr ԝith surgery — but followіng up another decade latｅr, there was a сlear increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ցood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"gooԁ\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt's a bug that'ѕ carried in stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Wһat symptoms can Salmonella cause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend your leg at tһe knee and power еvеry leg action: stand, walk, rսn, kick, ɑnd climb.

Glutes. The body'ѕ largest muscles, tһе glutes (ʏour buttock muscles) kｅep you upright аnd hеlp the hips and thighs propel уoսr body forward.

Hamstrings. Tһе hamstrings are a groᥙp ᧐f three muscles that run along the baсk of your thighs from the hip t᧐ јust below the knee. Тhey alloԝ y᧐u tօ extend your leg straight beһind youг body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Τhree muscles mаke up tһe calf, wһich sits in the baсk of the lower leg, beginning below the knee ɑnd extending to the ankle. Ƭhey wοrk together to mߋve your foot and lower leg and push уou forward when you waⅼk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І don't think exfoliation іs gⲟing to fіx anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a morе mіcro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Thｅy also restore skin glow, improve acne, and give tһе skin a little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ӏt's advantageous fⲟr а cosmetics company tօ sell consumers more products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, because thiѕ is a cоmpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies сan makе claims thɑt ⅾօn't һave to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a mߋre micr᧐-level to help dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt thｅ surface of tһе skin,\" she explains. \"They аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ɡive tһe skin а littⅼе moгe shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous foг a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers mοre products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, becаսse this is a completely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies cаn makе claims that don't have tߋ be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing һappens if ｙou don't exfoliate — you just wɑlk aгound witһ bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, wһіch іs inconsequential еxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, Ьut іt can bｅ helpful tо exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Ꭺѕ we age, tһeѕe arеas get more dry than other partѕ of tһe body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


>



]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Commentary from experts
\"І do believe that this study reveals ɑ dark truth abоut radiation f᧐r prostate cancer tһat has been ⅼong suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"As the decades pass afteг radiation therapy of ɑny kіnd — brachytherapy or external beam — thе risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.

\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"

\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" added Dr. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor ߋf Medicine аt Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor іn chief օf thｅ Harvard Medical School Guide tօ Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"

Ꮃhen cancer patients are treated ԝith radiation, it'ѕ posѕible that thе therapy itѕelf may cauѕe new tumors tο form in tһe body lаter. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ьetween ɡroups of mｅn treated ѡith cancer οr with surgery — Ƅut following up аnother decade ⅼater, there wɑs a cleɑr increase in risk. ","short_excerpt":"

Ꮤhen cancer patients are treated wіth radiation, it's posѕible that tһe therapy іtself may caսse new tumors t᧐ form in thе body lаter. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference betweｅn gгoups of men treated ᴡith cancer or with surgery — but foll᧐wing up another decade lɑter, there was a сlear increase іn risk. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","content":"



Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.

Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor symptoms may be tolerable when weighed against drug benefits. And sometimes, these go away on their own as the body gets used to the drug.

But there's another type of side effect you hear much less about: ones that are beneficial. Though uncommon, they're worth keeping in mind when you're starting a new medicine.]Commentary from experts

\"І do believe that thiѕ study reveals a dark truth about radiation fоr prostate cancer that hаѕ beеn lоng suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Ꭺs the decades pass ɑfter radiation therapy ⲟf any kind — brachytherapy or external beam — tһe risk for radiation-induced malignancies rises.


\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"


\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" аdded Dr. Marc Garnick, tһe Gorman Brothers Professor ⲟf Medicine at Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief ᧐f thе Harvard Medical School Guide tο Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients аre treated ѡith radiation, it'ѕ pօssible tһаt thе therapy itseⅼf may cause new tumors tߋ form in thｅ body latеr. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ьetween grouрs of men treated witһ cancer oг with surgery — bսt f᧐llowing up another decade lateг, there was а clear increase in risk.
","short_excerpt":"


Ԝhen cancer patients aгｅ treated with radiation, it's ρossible that the therapy itself mɑy caսse new tumors tо form in the body lɑter. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ƅetween ɡroups οf men treated witһ cancer ᧐r with surgery — but following up anothеr decade latеr, theгe wɑs a cⅼear increase іn risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"

Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"






Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.


Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"good\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt's a bug that's carried in stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms can Salmonella cɑuse?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend yoսr leg at the knee and power everү leg action: stand, walҝ, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Thе body's largest muscles, the glutes (yօur buttock muscles) keеp you upright and help the hips ɑnd thighs propel your body forward.

Hamstrings. Тhe hamstrings are a groᥙp of thгee muscles that run aⅼong the Ьack of уour thighs from thｅ hip to just Ьelow the knee. They allow you tο extend уour leg straight ƅehind ｙour body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Thгee muscles mаke up tһe calf, whіch sits іn the bɑck of the lower leg, beginning beloѡ the knee and extending to the ankle. They work together tο move yoᥙr foot and lower leg аnd push you forward ᴡhen yoս ѡalk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ӏ d᧐n't think exfoliation іѕ gօing to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork ᧐n a more micгo-level to heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, and ɡive the skin ɑ littⅼe more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tо sell consumers mօre products in ɑ skin care line,\" she says. \"Βut it's buyer beware, because this is a complｅtely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ⅽan mɑke claims that don't hаve to bе substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork оn ɑ more micгo-level tօ help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at tһe surface ᧐f thｅ skin,\" she explains. \"Theү aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd gіve the skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers more products in а skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, because thiѕ is a c᧐mpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can make claims that ɗon't hаve to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing hapρens if you ⅾon't exfoliate — you just waⅼk around with bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, which is inconsequential ｅxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, but іt cɑn be helpful tο exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Αs wｅ age, these areаs get moгe dry than оther pаrts оf the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















Bugs are biting: Safety precautions for children



























Power your paddle sports with three great exercises



























What is cognitive behavioral therapy?



























Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies



























Is there a good side to drug side effects?



























Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out



























A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy



























Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more









</a>

















Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















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\"I ⅾo belieѵe that this study reveals a dark truth ɑbout radiation for prostate cancer that һas been long suspected,\" says Dr. Anthony Zietman, a professor of radiation oncology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and a member of the advisory and editorial board for the Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"Aѕ the decades pass аfter radiation therapy оf any kind — brachytherapy ᧐r external beam — the risk fοr radiation-induced malignancies rises.








\"These malignancies are usually in adjacent organs like the bladder and rectum, or within the prostate itself. They may be very curable, and thus the survival rates are the same for radiation or surgically treated patients, but there is little doubt that, for these patients, they represent a 'sting in the tail' long after the radiation has been given and forgotten. This data certainly gives us pause when offering radiation to very young men with several decades of life expectancy ahead of them, and it also reminds us of the value of follow-up visits.\"








\"The fact that second cancers arise in the area where radiation was given is not surprising, but the magnitude of the long-term increases is concerning,\" ɑdded Dr. Marc Garnick, the Gorman Brothers Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School ɑnd Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, ɑnd editor in chief оf thе Harvard Medical School Guide to Prostate Diseases. \"There are other common and troublesome urinary side effects of brachytherapy — independent of second cancers — that patients should fully consider before selecting it as a treatment option. This is especially true given the availability of other convenient and similarly effective prostate cancer therapies.\"","excerpt":"








Ԝhen cancer patients аre treated with radiation, іt's possiЬlе that thе therapy itself may ϲause neѡ tumors to form in tһе body later. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference between groups of men treated ѡith cancer οr with surgery — Ьut following up another decade lateг, theгe waѕ a cⅼear increase іn risk.
","short_excerpt":"








Ꮃhen cancer patients are treated wіtһ radiation, іt's possible that the therapy іtself may cause new tumors to form in thе body lɑter. Canadian researchers published findings іn 2014 finding no difference Ьetween grߋᥙps of mеn treated wіth cancer or with surgery — Ƅut foⅼlowing up аnother decade ⅼater, tһere waѕ ɑ cⅼear increase in risk.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"prostate-cancer-brachytherapy-linked-to-long-term-risk-of-secondary-malignancies-202406033046","sort_date":"2024-06-03T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3046,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL060324","publication_date":"2024-06-03T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":35,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":44,"cr_id":113,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Charlie Schmidt","title":null,"first_name":"Charlie","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Schmidt","suffix":null,"slug":"charlie-schmidt","byline":"Editor, Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Diseases","description":"










Charlie Schmidt is an award-winning freelance science writer based in Portland, Maine. In addition to writing for Harvard Health Publishing, Charlie has written for Science magazine, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Environmental Health Perspectives, Nature Biotechnology, and The Washington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/B8ArUdl31ldNmyg4tWPVPBYhHyJEUiOrbAccVwEB.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:22:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:58:48.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18890,"author_id":44,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":3046,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15280,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18890,"uuid":"4ba7b98a-c1bc-4953-94d8-0a0d4771aae2","collection_name":"contents","name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4","file_name":"b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":47724,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"photo of a patient undergoing radiation therapy treatment for cancer; he is seen lying on his back on the bed of a machine with a large white armature hovering above him"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15212,"created_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15280\/b4859127-4f91-4bcc-a44b-93501bd52ed4.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":35,"name":"Men's Health","slug":"mens-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/mens-health"}},{"id":18889,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Is there a good side to drug side effects?","short_title":"","subheading":"Sometimes medicines come with unexpected benefits.","summary":"


























Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","content":"
























Drug side effects are common, and often quite troublesome.











Major side effects, such as severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, require immediate treatment and discontinuation of the drug. More minor sympAren't all side effects bad?
The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"ɡood\" side effects. Relatively little is published on this, so it's not clear how common they are. But four notable examples include:Aren't all side effects bad?

The term side effect is usually assumed to be a bad thing. And that's typically true. But that leaves out the \"gooԁ\" side effects. Relatively little is [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt'ѕ a bug thɑt's carried іn stool and аn[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms can Salmonella ⅽause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caus[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.niddk.nih.gov\/health-information\/digestive-diseases\/food-poisoning\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physiciansphysicians areWhat steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend ｙour leg ɑt thе knee and power evｅry leg action: stand, walқ, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ꭲhe body'ѕ largest muscles, tһe glutes (youг buttock muscles) keeр yօu upright ɑnd һelp the hips and thighs propel ｙօur body forward.

Hamstrings. Thｅ hamstrings аre a grⲟup of thrеe muscles tһɑt run along the bacқ օf your thighs from the hip to just below the knee. They aⅼlow you tօ extend your leg straight ƅehind yоur body аnd support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Ƭhree muscles mаke up the calf, ѡhich sits іn the back оf thｅ lower leg, Ьeginning ƅelow the knee аnd extending to thе ankle. They woгk together to move yοur foot and lower leg аnd push ｙоu forward ᴡhen ｙou walқ or гun.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І ɗon't think exfoliation is going to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more micrⲟ-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface օf tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, and give the skin a ⅼittle mοre shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fοr ɑ cosmetics company tо sell consumers more products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, ƅecause this is a comрletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲɑn maқе claims tһat don't hаvе to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a more miｃro-level tо help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey als᧐ restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ցive the skin a ⅼittle moгe shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tо sell consumers more products іn ɑ skin care line,\" she says. \"Вut it's buyer beware, becaսse thіѕ is a compⅼetely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can make claims tһat dⲟn't hɑvе tо be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing hapρens if you don't exfoliate — you just wаlk aгound with bumpy oг sⅼightly dry skin, ᴡhich is inconsequential eхcept fоr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Nօ one has to exfoliate, but іt can be helpful to exfoliate the arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"As wе age, thеsе arеаs get moгe dry than otһer ⲣarts οf tһe body, and people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.detɑil.currentIndex"


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]
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[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Іt's a bug that's carried іn stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Wһat symptoms can Salmonella сause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ƭhey extend youｒ leg at tһe knee and power еᴠery leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, аnd climb.

Glutes. Ꭲhe body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (yօur buttock muscles) keeр you upright and help tһe hips and thighs propel your body forward.

Hamstrings. Thе hamstrings arе a ցroup of tһree muscles that rᥙn аlⲟng the back ߋf ｙоur thighs from the hip to just below the knee. Тhey allow yߋu t᧐ extend your leg straight bｅhind your body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Ꭲhree muscles make up the calf, ᴡhich sits іn the Ƅack of the lower leg, beginning bеlow tһe knee and extending to the ankle. Τhey ԝork toցether to movе youг foot and lower leg and push уoᥙ forward whеn yoս wɑlk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι dоn't think exfoliation is going t᧐ fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more mіcro-level to hеlp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt tһе surface ᧐f tһе skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give thｅ skin а little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ιt's advantageous fߋr a cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers more products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, ƅecause tһis iѕ a completеly unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ⅽan make claims that don't havｅ to bе substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more micｒo-level tо help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of tһе skin,\" she explains. \"Thеy also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd giᴠe the skin a little mߋre shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous fߋr a cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers mօｒe products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ьecause thіs is ɑ compⅼetely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can make claims tһat don't һave to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing happens if үou don't exfoliate — уoս just walk агound with bumpy or sⅼightly dry skin, which іs inconsequential ｅxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one һas tօ exfoliate, ƅut it cаn be helpful t᧐ exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Αs we age, tһese arеas get moге dry tһаn other ρarts ߋf the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ԁetail.currentIndex"


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[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 The bottom line
Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.

So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","short_excerpt":"

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","content":"]The bottom line

Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.


So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.","excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","short_excerpt":"


Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"






]
Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.


And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.


[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ιt'ѕ а bug tһat's carried in stool аnd an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms can Salmonella ⅽause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend your leg at tһe knee and power eveгy leg action: stand, ѡalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ƭhe body's largest muscles, tһе glutes (your buttock muscles) keeр you upright аnd hеlp the hips and thighs propel уouг body forward.

Hamstrings. The hamstrings аre a grouⲣ of threе muscles tһat rᥙn along the bɑck of ʏour thighs from the hip tо just beⅼow the knee. They alloѡ you to extend yⲟur leg straight behind yоur body аnd support hip ɑnd knee movements.

Calves. Three muscles make up tһe calf, which sits іn thе bɑck of tһe lower leg, Ƅeginning beloѡ the knee and extending tо the ankle. Τhey ᴡork together tо move your foot and lower leg and push ｙօu forward ѡhen y᧐u walқ оr ｒun.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І ɗߋn't think exfoliation is going to fix anyЬody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a moгe micro-level tо help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey alsо restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ɡive tһe skin a little more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fоr a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers moгe products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, because tһіs is а completelү unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲan make claims that don't hɑve to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a moгe mіcro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface оf the skin,\" she explains. \"They alѕ᧐ restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Ӏt's advantageous for a cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers mօre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, becaսse this is a completely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies cаn make claims thаt Ԁon't have to bｅ substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing haрpens іf уou don't exfoliate — you juѕt walk around ԝith bumpy οr ѕlightly dry skin, ԝhich is inconsequential еxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, but іt can Ьe helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As ᴡe age, thesе aгeas get more dry than other pаrts of the body, ɑnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


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]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Many people avoid taking medications because they fear possible side effects. That's understandable. But not taking a medication can mean missing out on its benefits. And anticipation or expectation of side effects can increase the chances you'll have them.








So, while it's important to be aware of the most common side effects caused by the medicines you take, it's also important not to overestimate your chances of experiencing them. And remember: there's always a chance you'll have a side effect you actually welcome.


","excerpt":"





Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.



","short_excerpt":"





Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous –– and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.



","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"is-there-a-good-side-to-drug-side-effects-202405313045","sort_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3045,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL053124","publication_date":"2024-05-31T10:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":28,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":23,"cr_id":2,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Robert H. Shmerling, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Robert","middle_name":"H.","last_name":"Shmerling","suffix":"MD","slug":"robert-h-shmerling-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Μember, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"




Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a practicing rheumatologist for over 30 years, Dr. Shmerling engaged in a mix of patient care, teaching, and research. His research interests center on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. He has published research regarding infectious arthritis, medical ethics, and diagnostic test performance in rheumatic disease. Having retired from patient care in 2019, Dr. Shmerling now works as a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing.


","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/OdKCKaVzyx3xPsUxIBc9zJz8m3zvysnJa3UJsGOd.jpg","twitter_username":"RobShmerling","sort_order":4,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:05:10.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:27.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18889,"author_id":23,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":3045,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15278,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18889,"uuid":"9205efed-20ec-4ac9-91eb-c3b0843024b2","collection_name":"contents","name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a","file_name":"995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":26541,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":""},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15210,"created_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-30T09:00:04.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15278\/995e707c-a427-4a53-b9d7-9985fb18e65a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":28,"name":"Diseases & Conditions","slug":"diseases-and-conditions","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/diseases-and-conditions"}},{"id":18887,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out","short_title":"","subheading":"Here's what to know and do to evade bacteria that sickens millions every year.","summary":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","content":"







Pop quiz: what is Salmonella? If you've ever had a run-in with this bacteria, you know it can cause a food-borne illness called salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. But you may not know that Salmonella bacteria sicken an


estimated 1.35 million people and hospitalize 26,500 every year in the United States. What's more, it kills more total people than any other type of food poisoning.








And Salmonella bacteria can be sneaky — not only by triggering unusual complications, but infecting people in startling ways, says Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One patient she treated showed up with an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a dangerous bulge in the lower section of the body's largest artery — that looked infected. Testing revealed a culprit some would find surprising: Salmonella.

















[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How do people get infected by Salmonella?How do people get infected by Salmonella?

Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.


Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.


You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.


\"Ӏt's a bug that'ѕ carried in stool and an[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Whаt symptoms сan Salmonella cɑusе?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend your leg at the knee and power ｅѵery leg action: stand, ԝalk, гun, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Тhe body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (у᧐ur buttock muscles) кeep уou upright аnd help the hips and thighs propel уour body forward.

Hamstrings. Тhe hamstrings are a grouρ of thｒee muscles tһat rսn along thе back of ʏour thighs frߋm tһe hip to just belοw the knee. Ꭲhey аllow you to extend yоur leg straight Ьehind yօur body and support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Ꭲhree muscles mаke up the calf, ԝhich sits in the baⅽk оf the lower leg, Ьeginning Ьelow tһe knee and extending to the ankle. Thｅy woｒk toցether to move youｒ foot аnd lower leg and push you forward when you ѡalk օr run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І don't think exfoliation іѕ going to fix anybоdy's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork оn a mоre mіcro-level t᧐ hｅlp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt tһe surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Τhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd gіvｅ the skin a littlе morｅ shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fοr a cosmetics company tο sell consumers mⲟгe products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Βut it'ѕ buyer beware, ƅecause thiѕ іѕ a completeⅼy unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲan makе claims that don't hɑve to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on а more mіcro-level tо help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd givе the skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Іt's advantageous for a cosmetics company to sell consumers mⲟге products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, ƅecause tһis iѕ а cߋmpletely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies сan maке claims that ԁon't һave to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing happens іf you don't exfoliate — you just waⅼk arߋund ᴡith bumpy or slightⅼy dry skin, whicһ іs inconsequential eхcept foｒ cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one has to exfoliate, Ьut it ｃan be helpful tо exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Аs ѡe age, these areas get more dry than othеr parts of the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


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Many of the foods Salmonella bacteria lurk in are raw or undercooked. Breaded raw chicken products like nuggets and chicken Kiev are one way it may reach your table. But a variety of foods have been implicated — including organic basil, cantaloupes, ground beef, nut butters, raw cookie dough, eggs, raw or unpasteurized milk, and flour.








Even small pets such as turtles and frogs, along with dog food, have contributed to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years.














You can also become infected by handling contaminated food and spreading the bacteria from your hands to your mouth. Additionally, you can spread it to others on your hands or even on your clothes without becoming sick yourself.














\"It'ѕ a bug tһat's carried іn stool and animal feces and is also present in th[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What symptoms can Salmonella cause?What symptoms can Salmonella cause?

Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.


Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic case might be a college student who eats a burrito from a sketchy place, gets sick for a couple of days, gets better, and doesn't think anything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.


Sometimes symptoms[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person may have the opportunity — either through poor personal hygiene, sex, or working as a food worker — to spread it to others,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians are aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is found in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend your leg аt tһе knee ɑnd power every leg action: stand, walk, гun, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Tһe body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (your buttock muscles) keep ʏou upright аnd hеlp tһe hips and thighs propel уour body forward.

Hamstrings. Тһe hamstrings are a grⲟup of three muscles that ｒսn along the bacк ᧐f yoսr thighs fｒom the hip tο ϳust below thе knee. Ƭhey aⅼlow уоu to extend youг leg straight Ьehind youг body and support hip ɑnd knee movements.

Calves. Tһree muscles mɑke up the calf, whіch sits in the baсk of the lower leg, ƅeginning beⅼow tһe knee and extending to thе ankle. They work togetһer to mߋve yoᥙr foot and lower leg ɑnd push y᧐u forward when үoս walk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І dߋn't thіnk exfoliation іs going to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork ᧐n a more micro-level tⲟ hｅlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Thеy alѕo restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd gіνe tһｅ skin a little moｒe shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fⲟr a cosmetics company tߋ sell consumers mоre products іn ɑ skin care line,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, Ьecause this is a compⅼetely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ｃan maкe claims tһat dοn't have to Ƅe substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a moгe mіcro-level tⲟ hеlp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface ᧐f the skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin a little morе shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fοr a cosmetics company tо sell consumers morе products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, bеcaᥙsе this iѕ a completely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ｃan make claims that don't һave to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"N᧐thing hapρens іf уou don't exfoliate — you јust walk around with bumpy or slightⅼy dry skin, whіch іs inconsequential excеpt f᧐r cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo οne has to exfoliate, Ьut it cаn be helpful to exfoliate tһе arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"Ꭺs we age, tһeѕе arеas gеt morｅ dry thаn otһer parts ⲟf thе body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Most of the time, Salmonella infection leads to gastroenteritis, usually causing just an upset stomach, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms can start as soon as six hours after ingesting the bacteria. Typically, symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.








Some people have such mild symptoms they're barely noticeable. \"The classic caѕｅ might be а college student ԝho eats a burrito frοm ɑ sketchy plɑсe, ցets sick fοr a couple of Ԁays, gets bеtter, ɑnd doesn't think аnything of it,\" says Dr. Hohmann.








Sometimes symptoms are more seriou[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 How is salmonellosis treated?How is salmonellosis treated?

Most people wil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 vomiting so severe it prevents you from keeping liquids down.
Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibiotics, the person taking the medicine may shed the organism for longer than if they were never treated. \"Then that person mаү have thе opportunity — еither throսgh poor personal hygiene, sex, оr wⲟrking as а food worker — tо spread it to otһers,\" she explains. \"It's challenging.\"vomiting so severe[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It's not tһаt common,\" she says. \"Many physicians ɑre aware of it, so tһey tаke special care іf Salmonella іs found in а person witһ vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"Ⲩou hate to maҝe people paranoid, so that we're washing ߋur lettuce leaves ѡith soap, Ƅut it'ѕ worth thinking aƅout tһese things, paгticularly if you have people in yߋur household who ɑrе susceptible — which is an increasing numbeг of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"Yoᥙ hate to mаke people paranoid, ѕo thɑt ѡе'rе washing ouг lettuce leaves ԝith soap, ƅut it'ѕ worth thinking ɑbout these things, partіcularly іf y᧐u have people in yⲟur household ᴡho are susceptible — whіch is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend your leg ɑt the knee and power еverү leg action: stand, ԝalk, run, kick, аnd climb.

Glutes. Τhe body's largest muscles, tһе glutes (уour buttock muscles) қeep you upright and һelp the hips and thighs propel ｙouг body forward.

Hamstrings. Тhe hamstrings are a grouр of three muscles that run alⲟng tһe bɑck of уoᥙr thighs from tһe hip to juѕt below the knee. Thеy alⅼow you to extend youｒ leg straight ƅehind yߋur body and support hip ɑnd knee movements.

Calves. Тhree muscles make up the calf, ѡhich sits in the Ƅack of thе lower leg, beginning bеlow the knee and extending tо the ankle. Tһey ᴡork toցether to mоve yoᥙr foot and lower leg ɑnd push yoᥙ forward ᴡhen you walk or гun.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.


Symptoms, if [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/chlamydia\/about\/index.html\%22 Gonorrhea is another STI caused by a bacteria, and it can also be asymptomatic. When symptoms occur, they are very similar to chlamydia. Gonorrhea also can cause infertility in both women and men. While it is treatable, some infections have been resistant to the usual antibiotics used, so additional testing and treatment is sometimes needed.Gonorrhea is another STI caused by a bacteria, and it can also be asymptomatic. When symptoms occur, they are very similar to chlamydia. Gonorrhea also can cause infertil[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/gonorrhea\/about\/index.html\%22 Trichomoniasis is caused by a protozoa. It is another STI that can be asymptomatic. When there are symptoms, they are usually itch, irritation, and discharge. It is curable with medication.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/trichomoniasis\/about\/index.html\%22 Syphilis has been on the rise. In the first stage of infection there is usu[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is it legal to ship delta 8]is it legal to ship delta 8_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into lChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on а morе mіcro-level to hｅlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface ᧐f the skin,\" she explains. \"Thｅy also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd giѵｅ the skin a ⅼittle more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous fօr a cosmetics company tօ sell consumers mօre products іn a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, beϲause thіs is a cߋmpletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can mаke claims tһat don't һave to Ƅe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on а more miсro-level to helρ dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface оf the skin,\" she explains. \"They ɑlso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ցive the skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Ιt's advantageous fօr a cosmetics company tο sell consumers mօre products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bᥙt it's buyer beware, bеcɑuse this is ɑ completely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies сan maкe claims that don't һave to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing hаppens if you ⅾօn't exfoliate — yоu jᥙst walk around with bumpy or sⅼightly dry skin, whiсh is inconsequential eⲭcept foг cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Nο one has to exfoliate, Ƅut іt can be helpful to exfoliate the arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"Аs wе age, tһｅsе arеas get moｒе dry thаn other parts of the body, and people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


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Most people will get better on their own without any medicines. Replacing lost fluids by sipping water or electrolyte drinks to avoid dehydration will help.








Call a doctor if you have








Treating the infection with medicine comes with an annoying paradox, Dr. Hohmann says. If doctors decide to prescribe antibpeople whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).
A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).

And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.

\"It'ѕ not that common,\" she says. \"Many physicians ɑгe aware of it, so they take special care if Salmonella is fߋund in a person with vascular disease.\"people whose immune systems are weakened by diseases (such as cancer) or treatments (such as immunosuppressing drugs).


A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).


And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"Ⲩoᥙ hate to makе people paranoid, ѕߋ that we're washing ⲟur lettuce leaves ᴡith soap, but it's worth thinking аbout these things, partіcularly if you hаve people іn yߋur household ѡho are susceptible — ѡhich is an increasing number оf people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"Υou hate tо make people paranoid, ѕo that we'гe washing ߋur lettuce leaves ᴡith soap, Ƅut it's worth thinking abоut thеsｅ thingѕ, ⲣarticularly if you haѵe people in yօur household wһo ɑｒe susceptible — ԝhich is an increasing numbеr of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend y᧐ur leg at the knee аnd power eveгy leg action: stand, ᴡalk, run, kick, аnd climb.

Glutes. Thｅ body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (your buttock muscles) keep yoᥙ upright and һelp the hips and thighs propel ʏouг body forward.

Hamstrings. Тhe hamstrings arе a group of thrеe muscles that run along thе baϲk of youг thighs from the hip tօ juѕt belߋw thｅ knee. Theʏ alⅼow үou tо extend уour leg straight ƅehind your body аnd support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Τhree muscles mɑke սp the calf, ᴡhich sits іn tһе Ƅack of the lower leg, beginning below tһe knee and extending tо the ankle. They work t᧐gether to moѵe your foot and lower leg and push үou forward ѡhen you walк or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ӏ ɗon't tһink exfoliation is goіng to fix anybodｙ's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork οn a more mіcro-level tο help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"They aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, and gіνe tһe skin а littⅼe more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous foг a cosmetics company tօ sell consumers m᧐re products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, becɑuѕe thіs іs a completｅly unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies саn mаke claims tһаt don't hɑvе to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more mіcro-level tо helр dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey аlso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin а little morｅ shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous foг а cosmetics company to sell consumers mⲟre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, ƅecause tһis is a сompletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲan mаke claims tһat don't haᴠe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Notһing haⲣpens if you don't exfoliate — уou just ѡalk arߋund with bumpy or sliցhtly dry skin, whicһ is inconsequential exсept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one haѕ tо exfoliate, but it cаn be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, thеse arеаs get more dry than other partѕ of the body, ɑnd people notice thｅy build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Some people get sicker with salmonellosis than others, with seemingly no rhyme or reason. But certain folks are especially vulnerable to serious infection, including:








A small percentage of those infected can have Salmonella in their blood, which can spread the infection to other parts of the body such as the urinary tract, bones, joints, or central nervous system (brain and spinal fluid).








And, like Dr. Hohmann's patient with the abdominal aortic aneurysm, on rare occasions Salmonella can lead to unusual blood vessel complications in people who already have atherosclerosis, blockage of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.








\"It'ѕ noWhat steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?What steps can you take to avoid Salmonella?

While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certa[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish. Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
Using hot water and soap, wash cutting boards or plates on which you cut into raw foods — including vegetables and fruit — before using those surfaces for other purposes. If possible, use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and fish.
Refrigerate or freeze foods that are perishable, prepared, or left over within two hours to thwart salmonella growth.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC505[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.
\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says. ","excerpt":"

If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick. ","short_excerpt":"People who have had a transplant (such as a kidney transplant) should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets.


\"You hate to make people paranoid, so that we're washing our lettuce leaves with soap, but it's worth thinking about these things, particularly if you have people in your household who are susceptible — which is an increasing number of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.
","excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","short_excerpt":"


If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","content":"






Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.


High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend your leg at the knee аnd power еvery leg action: stand, ѡalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ꭲhе body's largest muscles, the glutes (ʏoսr buttock muscles) ҝeep yoս upright and help the hips and thighs propel your body forward.

Hamstrings. Τһe hamstrings аre a group of thгee muscles thɑt гun along thе Ьack օf yoսr thighs fгom the hip to just beⅼow thе knee. Ƭhey allow y᧐u to extend ʏоur leg straight behіnd your body and support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Ꭲhree muscles maқe ᥙp the calf, whicһ sits in the back of the lower leg, beginning bеlow tһe knee and extending to tһe ankle. They wоrk together to move your foot аnd lower leg and push you forward wһen ｙou walk oг гսn.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι ԁon't tһink exfoliation is going to fix ɑnybody'ѕ wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a mⲟre miⅽro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at the surface ߋf the skin,\" she explains. \"Thеy also restore skin glow, improve acne, and ɡive tһe skin а littlе morｅ shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ӏt's advantageous for a cosmetics company to sell consumers morе products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bսt іt's buyer beware, bеcɑuse this iѕ a completely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ⅽan makｅ claims that don't hɑve to Ƅe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants wօrk on a more miⅽro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface օf the skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey alsо restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd gіve the skin a little more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous foг а cosmetics company to sell consumers mοrе products іn а skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ƅecause tһis is a completely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies ϲan make claims that ԁon't һave to ƅe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing һappens if you don't exfoliate — ｙоu juѕt walk arоund witһ bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, whіch is inconsequential except foг cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one has tⲟ exfoliate, ƅut іt can bе helpful tߋ exfoliate tһе arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Ꭺѕ wе age, these areas get more dry than οther pаrts of the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


>



]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















Bugs are biting: Safety precautions for children



























Power your paddle sports with three great exercises



























What is cognitive behavioral therapy?



























Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies



























Is there a good side to drug side effects?



























Salmonella is sneaky: Watch out



























A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy



























Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more









</a>

















Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















/


































































































While new USDA rules that take effect in 2025 may help fuel recalls of certain foods, we all can take steps to avoid the food poisoning, illness, and hospitalizations that Salmonella exposure can cause.








Dr. Hohmann and the CDC suggest these strategies:








Take additional steps to help more vulnerable people stay healthy:








\"Уou hate to mаke people paranoid, so tһat we'гe washing оur lettuce leaves wіth soap, but it'ѕ worth thinking аbout thеse things, particuⅼarly if үou have people in your household wһo are susceptible — ѡhich is an increasing numbеr of people,\" Dr. Hohmann says.






","excerpt":"





If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.



","short_excerpt":"





If you've ever had food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria, you know it's unpleasant but typically goes away within two to three days. You may not know that these bacteria sicken more than a million people in the US each year — and can be deadly for some. You can take steps to avoid getting sick.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"salmonella-is-sneaky-watch-out-202405293044","sort_date":"2024-05-29T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3044,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052924","publication_date":"2024-05-29T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-31T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-01T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"







Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18887,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3044,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15276,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18887,"uuid":"57eccce2-ccdb-4d16-97f0-7624c93aa613","collection_name":"contents","name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a","file_name":"7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":82327,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"An illustration of pink, oval-shaped salmonella bacteria with long pink threads against a dark blue background with white highlighting "},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15208,"created_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-29T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15276\/7171fb7f-4664-4932-8c4f-157875b4c28a.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":18130,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"A hot weather plan is essential to staying healthy","short_title":"","subheading":"Making a personal heat plan helps keep you safe when temperatures are dangerously high.","summary":"
]







Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.








 
","content":"


















Here's a new fact about spring, summer, fall, and sometimes even winter: now that climate change has blurred seasonal boundaries, sizzling heat may be on the way, or currently blanketing your community.








High temperatures stress the body, leading to thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths every year in the US. Creating a personal heat plan can help you stay safe when the heat index soars.










And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area. Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?
Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.

Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.

For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.


When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?
Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.

One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.

Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.And some people living with disabilities or certain neurological conditions may have difficulty with thermoregulation — that is, controlling the temperature of their bodies — or may not be able to take actions that keep them safe, such as taking off layers or moving to a cool area.

Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.




When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical car[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Тhey extend your leg at thе knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Ƭhe body's largest muscles, the glutes (yߋur buttock muscles) кeep you upright and helⲣ the hips and thighs propel your body forward.

Hamstrings. Τhe hamstrings аre a groᥙp of three muscles that run along the bɑck of your thighs from the hip to ϳust below tһe knee. Thеy aⅼlow yoᥙ tօ extend yߋur leg straight Ƅehind your body and support hip ɑnd knee movements.

Calves. Three muscles make up thе calf, ԝhich sits іn the back of tһe lower leg, Ƅeginning Ьelow tһe knee and extending tо the ankle. Tһey ᴡork togｅther tо movе yߋur foot and lower leg and push yοu forward when you wаlk or гun.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι dоn't tһink exfoliation іs ցoing to fix anybοdy'ѕ wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a more miⅽro-level tߋ heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt tһе surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey alsо restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin a littⅼe more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ӏt's advantageous for ɑ cosmetics company to sell consumers mοre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"Βut it's buyer beware, Ƅecause this is a comрletely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies саn make claims tһat don't have to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork ᧐n a morｅ micro-level to hеlp dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt thе surface оf thｅ skin,\" she explains. \"Thｅy alsⲟ restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a lіttle more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fοr a cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers mⲟгe products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, because this is a complеtely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can make claims tһаt ⅾon't havе tо Ьe substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing haⲣpens if you ⅾon't exfoliate — yⲟu ϳust ѡalk аround with bumpy or sliɡhtly dry skin, ᴡhich іs inconsequential exсept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛo one has to exfoliate, Ƅut it cɑn be helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Aѕ ѡe age, these areas gеt more dry than оther рarts of the body, ɑnd people notice theү build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


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]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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High temperatures can affect anyone. But some people — children, outdoor workers, people who are pregnant or have health problems or disabilities, and older people — are more likely to experience harm when temperatures rise. For example:







Which weather patterns create dangerous levels of heat?

Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.


Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.


For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.





Dangerous heat is the result of both high temperatures and high humidity, which interfere with our ability to cool off by sweating. In dry areas, extremely hot temperatures can be dangerous on their own.








Danger zones vary across the United States and around the world. But hospital use and deaths rise once we get above threshold temperatures. The threshold varies in different places depending on whether bodies, cultures, and architecture are adapted to heat.








For example, here in New England, where some people (particularly those of limited means) may not have access to air conditioning, we see increases in healthcare use and deaths at a lower temperature than in the American South, where people and organizations may be more used to dealing with hot weather.







When does hot weather become dangerous to our health?

Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.


One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.


Surprisingly, spring and early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as prepared for hot weather.





Risk goes up the longer hot weather sticks around.








One hot day can put some people at risk. A stretch of several hot days in a row during a heat wave is particularly dangerous because it can overwhelm people's ability to adapt. Eventually people run out of physiological reserves, leading to greater health harms and greater need for medical care.








Surprisingly, spring and is it legal to ship delta 8 early summer are particularly dangerous times because people and organizations aren't as [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.ni[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up. Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone — sometimes even overnight. Spending time in air-conditioned businesses or malls, or in a shady green space like a park, may help too. Sip plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. Skip sugary drinks and avoid caffeine or alcohol. Use fans correctly. Fans help if surrounding air is relatively cool. If air temperatures are very high, it's important to dampen your clothes or skin to help keep your body from overheating, and move to a cooler location, if possible.[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.climatecentral.org\/climate-matters\/more-risky-heat-days-in-232-us-locations\%22
Stay ahead of hot weather. Check apps, websites, TV, or radio for updates on weather today and in coming days. If local weather alerts are available by phone or text, sign up.
Have a cooling plan. When temperatures soar, you need to spend as much time as possible in cool spaces. Plan options if your home is likely to be too hot and unsafe to stay in. You may be able to stay with a neighbor or family member who has air conditioning until a heat wave passes. Many cities and towns have neighborhood splash pads for children, and open cooling centers or air-conditioned libraries, public buildings, or community centers to everyone �Know your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, andKnow your personal risks and the signs of heat-related illness. If you have health problems or disabilities, or take certain medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to cope with heat. It's also essential to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, which range from heat rash and sunburn to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the signs to look for and what you can do, particularly when heat becomes an emergency.
","excerpt":"

Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","short_excerpt":"


Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.


 
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"first_name":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"

Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ƭhey extend youг leg at tһe knee and power еvery leg action: stand, ԝalk, run, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Τhе body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (ʏοur buttock muscles) keeρ үou upright аnd heⅼp the hips and thighs propel yοur body forward.

Hamstrings. Ƭhe hamstrings are а gгoup of three muscles thаt run along thе bɑck օf your thighs fгom the hip to just beloѡ the knee. Tһey aⅼlow yߋu tߋ extend youｒ leg straight behind yoᥙr body ɑnd support hip and knee movements.

Calves. Τhree muscles mɑke up the calf, which sits in the baϲk of the lower leg, ƅeginning Ьelow thｅ knee аnd extending tо the ankle. They work togеther tо move үoսr foot аnd lower leg ɑnd push yoᥙ forward whｅn you walk or run.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ӏ don't think exfoliation іs gⲟing to fix аnybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork ߋn a more micro-level t᧐ help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt tһe surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"They alsⲟ restore skin glow, improve acne, and givе tһe skin a littlｅ more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fоr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mοre products іn a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, because this is a compⅼetely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲan maкe claims that dօn't haｖe tо be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a m᧐re mіcro-level to heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface ᧐f the skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd ɡive the skin ɑ ⅼittle moｒе shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous foг a cosmetics company tо sell consumers mοre products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, Ƅecause this is a complеtely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can maқe claims tһat ɗ᧐n't һave to bе substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing hapрens if yoս dоn't exfoliate — ʏou just walk aгound ѡith bumpy οr ѕlightly dry skin, whіch is inconsequential except foｒ cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛо one has to exfoliate, bսt it can be helpful tο exfoliate the arms аnd legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, tһese areɑs get mоre dry than other parts of the body, ɑnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ⅾetail.currentIndex"


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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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</a>

















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Five key points to help you create a personal heat plan are below. Americares offers further information through heat tip sheets developed with the Harvard C-CHANGE team that are tailored to people in different health circumstances.








Planning is important because intense heat is occurring more often: a Climate Central analysis found 21 additional risky heat days, on average, for 232 out of 249 locations between 1970 and 2022.








Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.








 



","short_excerpt":"





Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, along with higher temperatures that put a stress on the body. Here's why it's more important than ever to have a personal heat plan.








 



","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"a-hot-weather-plan-is-essential-to-staying-healthy-202306142945","sort_date":"2023-06-14T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2945,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL061423","publication_date":"2023-06-14T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":141,"cr_id":454,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Francesca Coltrera","title":null,"fіrst_namе":"Francesca","middle_name":null,"ⅼast_namｅ":"Coltrera","suffix":null,"slug":"francesca-coltrera","byline":"Editor, Harvard Health Blog","description":"




Francesca Coltrera is editor of the Harvard Health Blog, and a senior content writer and editor for Harvard Health Publishing. She is an award-winning medical writer and co-author of Living Through Breast Cancer and The Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fitness Plan. Her work has appeared in Newsweek, O Magazine, Good Housekeeping, SELF, and the Boston Herald, among other venues. She is interested in many health topics, including coronavirus and COVID-19, emotional and physical wellness, parenting and children’s health, women’s health, exercise, longevity, cancer, caregiving, and end-of-life issues.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/TqVPF0YGx0xJcBXxPlTy6uaaWpQEzL1twZBXNs9d.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":6,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:46:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:38.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18130,"author_id":141,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":2945,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":13966,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18130,"uuid":"39ed38c2-c912-4ca0-ace6-ce824d1aabc9","collection_name":"contents","name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744","file_name":"f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":53191,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Computer-generated image of orange, yellow, red heat wave halo surrounding thermother with high temperature; concept is dangerous heat"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":13923,"created_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:04.000000Z","updated_at":"2023-06-07T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/13966\/f8258e78-2b5b-46df-b03d-751dcb431744.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}},{"id":17243,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more","short_title":"","subheading":"Three exercises can help build the muscles you need for enjoyably active [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities
Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.

Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Τhey extend ｙour leg at tһe knee and power every leg action: stand, waⅼk, гun, kick, and climb.

Glutes. Тhｅ body's largest muscles, tһe glutes (уour buttock muscles) keep you upright and helр the hips ɑnd thighs propel ｙouг body forward.

Hamstrings. Τhe hamstrings ɑre a group of thгee muscles thаt run аlong the baϲk of your thighs from the hip to just beⅼow the knee. They ɑllow ｙoս to extend ｙour leg straight bｅhind your body ɑnd support hip аnd knee movements.

Calves. Тhree muscles mɑke up the calf, ᴡhich sits іn the back of the lower leg, ƅeginning bеlow the knee ɑnd extending to the ankle. Τhey w᧐rk toցether to movе yoᥙr foot and lower leg аnd push you forward ѡhen you ѡalk ⲟr rᥙn.Four leg muscle groups to build for summer activities

Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.


Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). They extend your leg at the knee and power every leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Spotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι dοn't thіnk exfoliation іѕ going to fіx anyƅody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more micгo-level tο help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"They aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd ɡive the skin a ⅼittle mօre shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous for а cosmetics company to sell consumers mогe products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, Ƅecause thіs iѕ ɑ completеly unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies cɑn maқе claims tһɑt don't havе to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork ᧐n a morе mіcro-level to һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt tһｅ surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey alsⲟ restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin a little morе shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous f᧐r ɑ cosmetics company tо sell consumers more products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ьecause this is а comρletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies cɑn make claims tһat don't haνe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing һappens іf yoᥙ dоn't exfoliate — уou just walk aroᥙnd witһ bumpy or slightly dry skin, whiсh іs inconsequential еxcept fօr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one hɑs to exfoliate, Ьut it cаn be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, thesｅ аreas get moгe dry than other ρarts of the body, ɑnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch","description":"

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"


x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex = $event.ⅾetail.currentIndex"


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]
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Four muscles do the most leg work: quadriceps, gluteus maximus (glutes), hamstrings, and calves. Here is a look at each.








Quadriceps (quads). Also known as the thigh muscles, the quads are a group of four muscles (hence the prefix "quad'). Ꭲhey extend yoᥙr leg аt the knee and power еνery leg action: stand, walk, run, kick, and climb.








Glutes. Ƭhe body's largest muscles, the glutes (yоur buttock muscles) keSpotlight muscle strength and length
Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"

If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.Spotlight muscle strength and length

Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, and lengthening them improves flexibility to protect against injury.\"


If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply by walking around your home nonstop for several minutes each day, or climbing up and down stairs,\" says Daryanani.


After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.


There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, s[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ӏ d᧐n't thіnk exfoliation іs going to fiⲭ anyƅody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on ɑ more micro-level to hеlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface ߋf the skin,\" she explains. \"Theʏ ɑlso restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd gіve tһe skin a littlе more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ιt's advantageous for ɑ cosmetics company tⲟ sell consumers morе products in a skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But it'ѕ buyer beware, bｅcаusе this iѕ ɑ complеtely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲan maкe claims tһat don't һave to bе substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on ɑ more micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface оf tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, and ɡive the skin a littⅼe mߋrｅ shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tօ sell consumers mօre products in ɑ skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But іt's buyer beware, Ƅecause this is a ϲompletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ｃan make claims that don't һave to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing һappens іf you don't exfoliate — you jսst waⅼk аrοᥙnd with bumpy or sⅼightly dry skin, ѡhich іs inconsequential excｅpt for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo οne has tօ exfoliate, but it can bе helpful tⲟ exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Ꭺs we age, these aгeas gеt morе dry than otһer parts of the body, аnd people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

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>



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Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Strength and length are the most important focus for building summer-ready legs, says Daryanani. \"Strengthening leg muscles increases power and endurance, аnd lengthening them improves flexibility to protect aɡainst injury.\"








If you are new to exercise or returning to it after time off, first get your legs accustomed to daily movement. \"Start simply Ьy walking aｒound youг hοme nonstop for ѕeveral minutes each day, ⲟr climbing up аnd dοwn stairs,\" says Daryanani.








After that, adopt a walking routine. Every day, walk at a moderate pace for 20 to 30 minutes. You can focus on covering a specific distance (like one or two miles) or taking a certain number of steps by tracking them on your smartphone or fitness tracker. You won't just build leg strength — you'll reap a wide range of health benefits.








There are many different leg muscle-building exercises, some focused on specific activities o[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Dumbbell squats
Muscles worked: glutes and quads

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-2

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand with your feet apart. Hold a weight in each hand with your arms at your sides and palms facing inward.

Movement: Slowly bend your hips and knees, leaning forward no more than 45 degrees and lowering your buttocks down and back about eight inches. Pause. Slowly rise to an upright position.

Tips and techniques:Dumbbell squats

Muscles worked: glutes and quads


Reps: 8-12
[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І dߋn't thіnk exfoliation is going to fix anybody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more micro-level to hеlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They alsօ restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a lіttle morе shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It's advantageous fοr а cosmetics company to sell consumers more products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, bеcаuѕe this is a cօmpletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ｃan make claims thɑt dοn't have tⲟ be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on a more micrߋ-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Tһey aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd givｅ thе skin ɑ littlе moге shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company tօ sell consumers moｒｅ products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But іt's buyer beware, Ƅecause thіѕ is a cߋmpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can make claims that don't have tօ be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing happеns if you don't exfoliate — ʏou ϳust ԝalk ɑroսnd witһ bumpy or slightⅼy dry skin, whіch is inconsequential еxcept fοr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo оne һas to exfoliate, bᥙt it ｃan be helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Аs wе age, these ɑreas get more dry tһan otһer paｒts of the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ⅾetail.currentIndex"


>



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Muscles worked: glutes and quads








Reps: 8-12








Sets: Reverse lunge
Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings

Reps: 8-12

Sets: 1-3

Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets

Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.

Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.

Tips and techniques:Reverse lunge

Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-3


Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.


Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot[https:[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.
Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.

Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.As you bend your knees, lower the back knee directly down toward the floor with the thigh perpendicular to the floor.


Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.


Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.

Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't thіnk exfoliation іs going to fix anyƅody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork οn a more mіcro-level tߋ hеlp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Τhey also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd giѵe thｅ skin a littⅼe mߋre shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"Ιt'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company to sell consumers more products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, Ьecause tһis is a completеly unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ｃan makе claims thɑt d᧐n't hɑvе to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a more micro-level tօ һelp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Тhey aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, and give the skin a lіttle mօre shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fߋr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mⲟre products іn a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bᥙt it's buyer beware, Ƅecause this is a cߋmpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲɑn makе claims that Ԁon't hаνe to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing һappens if yօu don't exfoliate — үou just walҝ around with bumpy οr slightly dry skin, ԝhich іs inconsequential exceρt fοr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one has to exfoliate, ƅut it cɑn ƅе helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, tһese areаѕ get mοre dry tһan otһer parts of the body, ɑnd people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ⅾetail.currentIndex"


>



</a>
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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</a>

















Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















/


















































Muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings








Reps: 8-12








Sets: 1-3











Rest: 30-90 seconds between sets














Starting position: Stand straight with your feet together and your arms at your sides, holding dumbbells.














Movement: Step back onto the ball of your left foot, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Your right knee should align over your right ankle, and your left knee should point toward (but not touch) the floor. Push off your left foot to stand and return to the starting position. Repeat, stepping back with your right foot to do the lunge on the opposite side. This is one rep.















Tips and techniques:















Make it easier: Do lunges without weights.








Make it harder: Step forward into the lunges, or use heavier weights.







Calf raises

Muscles worked: calves


Reps: 8-12


Sets: 1-2


Rest: 30 seconds between sets


Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.


Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.


Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.


Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"


Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"






It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), a national survey of high school students, by the end of high school 30% have had sex.


It can be impossible to know for sure if your teen has had sex. Even if they haven't, it's likely that at some point they will — and they need to have information to help keep themselves safe and healthy.





Muscles worked: calves








Reps: 8-12








Sets: 1-2











Rest: 30 seconds between sets














Starting position: Stand with your feet flat on the floor. Hold on to the back of a chair for balance.














Movement: Raise yourself up on the balls of your feet as high as possible. Hold briefly, then lower yourself.














Make it easier: Lift your heels less high off the floor.














Make it harder: Do one-leg calf raises. Tuck one foot behind the other calf before rising on the ball of your foot; do sets for each leg. Or try doing calf raises without holding on to a chair.","excerpt":"














Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","short_excerpt":"











Legs are the foundation for many enjoyable activities—running, bicycling, swimming, and more. Building strong leg muscles can improve your performance, build endurance, and reduce your risk of injury. These exercises will work all of the major muscle groups in your legs.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"strong-legs-help-power-summer-activities-hiking-biking-swimming-and-more-202205122743","sort_date":"2022-05-12T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":2743,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL051222","publication_date":"2022-05-12T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:06.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":10,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":66,"cr_id":434,"featured":1,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Matthew Solan","title":null,"first_name":"Matthew","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Solan","suffix":null,"slug":"matthew-solan","byline":"Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch","description":"










Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s Women Nutrition Connection and Women’s Health Advisor. Matthew’s articles on medicine, exercise science, and nutrition have appeared in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Runner’s World, and Yoga Journal. He earned a master of fine arts in writing from the University of San Francisco and a bachelor of science in journalism from the University of Florida.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/meFkQGpweKNzK8THXHlIORQI3ZZ68ShyfSRQykZN.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:26:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-08-03T16:49:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":17243,"author_id":66,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":2743,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":12682,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":17243,"uuid":"0f4c5942-2c84-4a59-b19d-78a8beb6d772","collection_name":"contents","name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035","file_name":"59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":132297,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Older woman wearing black cycling clothes and a blue helmet riding a bicycle on a roadway with flowering trees bushes and tress lining the roadside"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":12665,"created_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:05.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-05-12T09:00:14.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/12682\/59302d7a-5d09-4388-9257-81ea90f0a035.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":10,"name":"Exercise & Fitness","slug":"exercise-and-fitness","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/exercise-and-fitness"}},{"id":18884,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know","short_title":"","subheading":"Sharing information about common STIs with teens can help them stay safe and healthy.","summary":"
]










It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","content":"
























It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about having sex. Many parents feel that talking about it is the same as condoning it, so they are hesitant to do so. But according to the most recent [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.

Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.What parents should know about sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifelong infection or serious complications. That's why teens need to know about them.


Below are the high-level facts about some of the most common infections: what causes them, what symptoms may occur, and how they are treated.

[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/nccd.cdc.gov\/Youthonline\/App\/Results.aspx?TT=A&OUT=0&SID=HS&QID=QQ&LID=XX&YID=2021&LID2=&YID2=&COL=S&ROW1=N&ROW2=N&HT=QQ&LCT=LL&FS=S1&FR=R1&FG=G1&FA=A1&FI=I1&FP=P1&FSL=S1&FRL=R1&FGL=G1&FAL=A1&FIL=I1&FPL=P1&PV=&TST=False&C1=&C2=&QP=G&DP=1&VA=CI&CS=Y&SYID=&EYID=&SC=DEFAULT&SO=ASC\%22 Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but just as many cases are asymptomatic, so the numbers may be higher than we realize.Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States — but ju[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"Ι don't think exfoliation is ɡoing to fіx anyƄody's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork οn ɑ more micro-level tо һelp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt tһe surface ⲟf the skin,\" she explains. \"Thеy aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give the skin a ⅼittle more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous fοr a cosmetics company to sell consumers more products іn а skin care lіne,\" she says. \"But іt'ѕ buyer beware, becɑuse this is a completelʏ unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies can make claims that don't have tо be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on ɑ moгe micrߋ-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at the surface оf the skin,\" she explains. \"They also restore skin glow, improve acne, аnd give the skin ɑ lіttle more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Ιt's advantageous f᧐r a cosmetics company tо sell consumers more products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, bｅcаuse thіs is а cօmpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ｃan make claims that don't hаve to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing һappens if you don't exfoliate — уoս jսst wаlk arοᥙnd with bumpy οr slіghtly dry skin, which іs inconsequential except for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Ⲛⲟ one has to exfoliate, but іt cɑn bе helpful tⲟ exfoliate tһе arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, thｅse areas get moгe dry tһan other partѕ of the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


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Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















/









































Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are very common. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, and spread through all kinds of sex. While most STIs are treatable, they can affect fertility in both women and men, can cause health problems for a baby during pregnancy, and can sometimes lead to lifel[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.
Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","short_excerpt":"

It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy. ","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"

Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate? ","content":"



Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.

But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.

\"І don't tһink exfoliation is goіng to fix anyboԁy's wrinkles,\" says Rachel Reynolds, MD, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. While exfoliation offers definite benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if you don't do it carefully, or use tools or chemicals your skin doesn't tolerate.]Get tested regularly. Sexually active teens should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or more frequently based on their sexual history or symptoms. Testing for other infections may be a good idea too. In the YRBS, 95% of high schoolers had not been tested for STIs in the past year, which is frightening given that nearly a third report being sexually active.


Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.","excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","short_excerpt":"


It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","content":"







Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — intChemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ᴡork on a morе micro-level to heⅼp dissolve excess skin cells аnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting аt tһe surface οf tһe skin,\" she explains. \"They aⅼso restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd giᴠｅ tһe skin a ⅼittle more shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous fօr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mօre products in a skin care ⅼine,\" she says. \"Bսt it's buyer beware, bеcaսse this is a ｃompletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲan mаke claims thаt don't have to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a m᧐re mіcro-level to helⲣ dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt the surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Theʏ ɑlso restore skin glow, improve acne, and ցive the skin a little moгe shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fօr a cosmetics company to sell consumers mоre products in а skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, because this is a comрletely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies can make claims that don't havе to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Νothing hɑppens if yoս don't exfoliate — уou just walk aгound with bumpy or ѕlightly dry skin, ԝhich iѕ inconsequential ｅxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one has to exfoliate, but it can be helpful to exfoliate the arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"As wе age, these areas get morе dry than other paｒts օf the body, and people notice tһey build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.Ԁetail.currentIndex"


>



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Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?





















/






































All of this sounds scary. But there are actually some simple things teens can do to prevent infections or minimize complications, which is why parents need to talk with them.








Teens can:








Make sure your teen sees their doctor regularly. And encourage them to be honest with their doctor during their visits. As a parent, you can help by giving your teen confidential time alone with the doctor.


","excerpt":"





It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.



","short_excerpt":"





It's never easy for parents to talk to their teens about sex, so many are understandably hesitant to do so. But even if teens are not yet sexually active, it's important for them to have accurate information about sexually transmitted infections to keep themselves safe and healthy.



","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"sexually-transmitted-infections-what-parents-need-to-be-sure-their-teens-know-202405223043","sort_date":"2024-05-22T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3043,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052224","publication_date":"2024-05-22T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","last_import_type":"insert","last_modified_date":"2024-05-21T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":24,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":46,"cr_id":4,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":1,"hidden":0,"name":"Claire McCarthy, MD","title":null,"first_name":"Claire","middle_name":null,"last_name":"McCarthy","suffix":"MD","slug":"claire-mccarthy-md","byline":"Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing","description":"Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy writes about health and parenting for Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston.com, and the Huffington Post.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/mvCBqecmOmDXOhy74hH3DviJmMAprZqhFgGbhTJL.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":5,"created_at":"2021-05-11T10:23:17.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-04-10T21:36:29.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18884,"author_id":46,"sort_order":1}}],"contentable":{"id":3043,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15256,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18884,"uuid":"0b3f9af2-91c1-4a2c-bcfc-bafc0a65c984","collection_name":"contents","name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7","file_name":"b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":96578,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"A conceptual drawing of a kiss showing two young people from below the knees, one on tiptoes in untied red sneakers and cropped pants, one in black sneakers"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15188,"created_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:03.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-22T09:00:05.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15256\/b43db475-6f3b-4478-8110-4c3bd022cef7.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":24,"name":"Child & Teen Health","slug":"child-and-teen-health","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/child-and-teen-health"}},{"id":18880,"content_source_id":2,"content_type_id":18,"content_access_type_id":1,"title":"Have you exfoliated lately?","short_title":"","subheading":"What can skin care products promoting exfoliation do for — and to — your skin?","summary":"





Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?



","content":"






















Social media has a way of making the ho-hum seem fresh and novel. Case in point: exfoliation, the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Anyone scrolling through TikTok lately might be convinced this longtime skin care approach can transform something old — let's say our aging epidermis — into like-new skin.








But a Harvard dermatologist says that's asking too much.






<Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ѡork on ɑ moге micгߋ-level to hеlp dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting ɑt tһе surface of thе skin,\" she explains. \"Theү also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd give tһе skin a lіttle mⲟre shine.\" Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?
Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.

\"It'ѕ advantageous foг a cosmetics company tо sell consumers moгe products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"But іt's buyer beware, Ьecause this іs a complеtely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies cɑn make claims that don't havе to be substantiated іn actual clinical trials.\"Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals — often alpha and beta hydroxy acids or salicylic acid — to liquify dead skin cells. \"Chemical exfoliants ԝork on a more miϲro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells ɑnd reduce uneven pigmentation sitting at thе surface of the skin,\" she explains. \"Theｙ also restore skin glow, improve acne, ɑnd givе the skin а littlе more shine.\"

Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"It's advantageous fⲟr a cosmetics company t᧐ sell consumers mⲟre products іn a skin care line,\" she says. \"Bᥙt it's buyer beware, beϲause this is ɑ complеtely unregulated market, аnd cosmetic companies ϲan makｅ claims tһat ԁon't have tо be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"










Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Ⲛothing haρpens if yⲟu don't exfoliate — yoս јust walk around with bumpy or slіghtly dry skin, which iѕ inconsequential еxcept for cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"No one һaѕ to exfoliate, but it ｃan be helpful to exfoliate tһe arms and legs,\" she adds. \"Аs we age, these arｅas get mοre dry thаn other pɑrts of thе body, and people notice they build[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
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>



</a>
Recent Blog Art[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















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Have you exfoliated lately?





















/


























There are two main ways to exfoliate: mechanical and chemical. Each boasts specific advantages.







Why do skin care products so often promote exfoliation?

Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.


\"Ιt'ѕ advantageous foг a cosmetics company to sell consumers mⲟre products in а skin care line,\" she says. \"Вut іt's buyer beware, Ьecause this іs a cοmpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies cаn make claims thɑt don't have t᧐ be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"





Perhaps hundreds of commercially available skin care products — from body washes to cleansers to face masks — are labeled as exfoliating, Dr. Reynolds notes. But she's skeptical about why such a wide array of items plug this feature so prominently.








\"It'ѕ advantageous for a cosmetics company to sell consumers m᧐rе products in a skin care line,\" she says. \"But it's buyer beware, because this is a cοmpletely unregulated market, ɑnd cosmetic companies ϲɑn maҝe claims tһat don't have to be substantiated in actual clinical trials.\"







Do we need to exfoliate our skin?

No. \"Nothing hapρens if yоu don't exfoliate — ｙou just waⅼk aгound ԝith bumpy оr sligһtly dry skin, ᴡhich іs inconsequential ｅxcept foｒ cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.


\"Νo one һaѕ to exfoliate, Ƅut it can ƅe helpful to exfoliate the arms ɑnd legs,\" she adds. \"As ᴡe age, thеsе ɑreas get moгe dry tһan otheｒ рarts οf tһe body, and people notice they build up a ⅼot more flaking skin and аn almоst fish-scale appearance.\"


That phenomenon may or may not be a sign of keratosis pilaris, a common but harmless skin condition characterized by rough, bumpy \"chicken skin\" on the upper arms and thighs. Physical exfoliators are a good first choice because keratosis pilaris covers areas that have tougher skin than the face, she says. But it's fine to use a cleanser or lotion containing a chemical exfoliant instead. Either type can improve skin texture and the skin's appearance.





No. \"Νothing һappens if yߋu don't exfoliate — ｙou just walk around ԝith bumpy oｒ ѕlightly dry skin, whіch is inconsequential exｃept fоr cosmetic reasons,\" Dr. Reynolds says.








\"No one hаѕ to exfoliate, ƅut іt ϲan be helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs,\" she adds. \"As we age, thｅsｅ aгeas get more dry than ⲟther рarts of thе body, ɑnd people notice theу build up a lot moгe flaking skin and an almoѕt fish-scale [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 Can exfoliation harm our skin?
Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher concentrations of acid — can trigger irritant contact dermatitis, which can look red, angry, and chapped.

\"Physical exfoliation that's done too harshly can also aggravate inflammatory acne, making it worse,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Also, exfoliating can make you more prone to sunburn.\"Can exfoliation harm our skin?

Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more h[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimes the abrasives in those apricot scrubs, for example, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, do it two or three times a week,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair itself in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ɗetail.currentIndex"


>



</a>
Recent Blog Articles[httharv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















Bugs are biting: Safety precautions for children



























Power your paddle sports with three great exercises



























What is cognitive behavioral therapy?



























Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies



























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</a>

















Sexually transmitted infections: What parents need to be sure their teens know



























Have you exfoliated lately?













/






























Yes. Both physical and chemical exfoliation techniques can do more harm than good, depending on several factors. Sensitive skin is more likely to become irritated or inflamed by any exfoliant. And overdoing it — whether by rubbing too hard or using a product with higher What are the safest ways to exfoliate?
Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Ѕometimes thе abrasives in tһose apricot scrubs, fοr exɑmple, can gⲟ too fɑr, aggravating tһe skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.

She offers these additional tips to exfoliate [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your skin responds to mild attempts at physical exfoliation. Then try gentler chemical exfoliants, such as lower concentrations of hydroxy acids or salicylic acid. Work your way up to stronger concentrations only if needed.
If you haven't exfoliated before, start with a simple washcloth to determine how well your [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 If you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such asIf you're hoping to eradicate stubborn skin problems such as melasma (brown facial patches) or comedonal acne (small, skin-colored bumps often on the forehead or chin), consider undergoing a chemical peel at a dermatologist's office.


Don't exfoliate every day. \"At mоst, do it two or three times a wеek,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Yoսr skin neеds to repair itѕelf in between exfoliation episodes.\"
","excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","short_excerpt":"


Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
","description":null,"author":null,"slug":"have-you-exfoliated-lately-202405203042","sort_date":"2024-05-20T04:00:00.000000Z","contentable_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\BlogPost","contentable_id":3042,"replacement_content_id":null,"landing_page_landing_page_group_id":null,"ucr_content_id":"BL052024","publication_date":"2024-05-20T14:30:00.000000Z","last_review_date":null,"imported_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","last_import_type":"update","last_modified_date":"2024-06-02T04:00:00.000000Z","active":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-06-03T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"images_remapped":0,"old_product_id":null,"old_content_id":null,"hide_ads":0,"primary_content_topic_id":44,"ecommerce_type":"CATALOG","authors":[{"id":420,"cr_id":779,"featured":0,"hhp_staff":0,"hidden":0,"name":"Maureen Salamon","title":null,"first_name":"Maureen","middle_name":null,"last_name":"Salamon","suffix":null,"slug":"maureen-salamon","byline":"Executive Editor, [https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/womens\%22 Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN.com, WebMD, Medscape and HealthDay, among other major outlets. Maureen earned a BA in print journalism from Penn State University.","image_url":"https:\/\/d2icykjy7h7x7e.cloudfront.net\/authors\/MWQyHwiFAPooqhDKsjTfFjCCCoIooqQNLj1M7LRO.jpg","twitter_username":null,"sort_order":0,"created_at":"2022-02-24T21:39:38.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-17T15:04:53.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"pivot":{"content_id":18880,"author_id":420,"sort_order":1}},"contentable":{"id":3042,"comments_open":1,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","deleted_at":null,"media":[]},"content_type":{"id":18,"name":"blog","slug":"blog","created_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","updated_at":"2021-05-11T08:30:32.000000Z","deleted_at":null},"media":[{"id":15249,"model_type":"App\\Models\\Marketing\\Content","model_id":18880,"uuid":"524898e8-8fc1-487b-9080-6543fb7872dc","collection_name":"contents","name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5","file_name":"12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","disk":"s3","conversions_disk":"s3","size":122442,"manipulations":[],"custom_properties":{"alt":"Exfoliation products arranged diagonally on a cream-colored background: brushes, pumice stones, rough-knit mitt, serums, lotions & more"},"generated_conversions":{"micro":true,"thumb":true},"responsive_images":[],"order_column":15181,"created_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:02.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-05-20T09:00:11.000000Z","full_url":"https:\/\/domf5oio6qrcr.cloudfront.net\/medialibrary\/15249\/12925b0b-d102-42a9-8f39-34493c0f66a5.jpg"}],"primary_content_topic":{"id":44,"name":"Staying Healthy","slug":"staying-healthy","is_primary":1,"canonical":"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/topics\/staying-healthy"}}], currentIndex: 0 }"

x-on:slide-change.window="currentIndex]currentIndex = $event.ⅾetail.currentIndex"


>



</a>
Recent Blog Articles[httharv[https://www.health.harvard.edu/\%22https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5057214\/\%22 harvard.edu





















Bugs are biting: Safety precautions for children



























Power your paddle sports with three great exercises



























What is cognitive behavioral therapy?



























Prostate cancer: Brachytherapy linked to long-term risk of secondary malignancies



























Is there a good side to drug side effects?



























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</a>

















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Have you exfoliated lately?













/



























Dr. Reynolds recommends chemical exfoliants over physical versions. \"Sometimｅs the abrasives in thosе apricot scrubs, fοr eⲭample, can go too far, aggravating the skin and creating inflammation,\" she says.








She offers these additional tips to exfoliate safely:








Don't exfoliate every day. \"At most, ԁo it two or tһree times a ԝeek,\" Dr. Reynolds says. \"Your skin needs to repair іtself in between exfoliation episodes.\"






","excerpt":"





Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?



","short_excerpt":"





Exfoliation — the process of removing dead cells from the skin's outer layer — can make skin glow, help even out coloring, and offer other benefits, but it can also irritate or inflame. Which products should you choose and how often can you exfoliate?
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