Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Sinus Infections Crop Up in Autumn
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THURSDAY, Oct. 14 (HealthDayNews) -- Not only is fall the start of the cold and flu season, it's also the time of year when sinus infections become more common. "The cooler, dry weather associated with the fall allergy season will cause an increase in the frequency and severity of sinus infections and sinus headaches, especially in seasonal allergy sufferers. Many people who believe they have the common cold may actually have a sinus infection and are self-mediating improperly," Dr. Brian A. Smart, vice chairman of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology's (AAAAI) sinusitis committee, said in a prepared statement. More than 31 million Americans suffer from sinus infections. It's one of the most common disorders in the United States, accounting for more than 18 million visits to doctors and more than $5.8 billion in health-care expenses each year. A sinus infection is caused by inflammation of the nasal sinuses. This inflammation is often caused by inadequate draining of mucus due to colds, allergies, infections, or structural problems. Sinusitis symptoms include: profuse, thick yellow-green discharge from the nose; plugged nose; headache; facial pain or pressure; toothache; cough, ear pressure; and fatigue. The AAAAI recommends that people who think they may have sinusitis seek proper diagnosis and treatment. "When left untreated or undiagnosed, sinus infections can cause further complications with the nose, eyes or middle ear, lasting for months or even years," Smart said. More information The American Academy of Family Physicians has more about sinusitis.
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