The world of medical news moves quickly, with new studies and advice emerging all the time.
AARP sought out authoritative answers to the health questions many of us are asking right now.
Can a pill or capsule stand in for fruits and vegetables?
I dont eat enough fruits and vegetables.
Are those fruit-and-vegetable capsules that are increasingly advertised on TV a solution?
Jessica Migala
2.
How often do you need a skin check?
How often should I be getting skin checks?
Regardless of your tanning history, stay alert for changes in your skin, Day says.
JM
3.
Do I really need another COVID shot?
Im up to five COVID shots.
Should I really be signing up for another one now?
For starters, its likely been a while since your last COVID shot.
The new shot also targets morerecent versions of the virus.
(The previous booster took on variants that were causing infections last year.)
Going forward, the coronavirus vaccines could become an annual shot, like the influenza vaccine.
Rachel Nania
4.
Is there a decongestant that will unstuff my nose?
Ive been taking cold medicine for years and now I hear these decongestants dont actually work.
What should I do now?
(It is still effective when used as a nasal spray.)
If youre looking for a decongestant thatwillwork, there are options.
Saline nasal sprays that dont contain medication can alsohelp to relieve congestion.
So can steamy showers and humidifiers.
RN
5.
Gummies vs. joint: Is one safer than the other?
Recreational use of marijuana became legal in my state, and now several friends have started taking THC gummies.
Are they really safer than smoking a joint?
The effect from an edible can come on one to two hours after consumption, Grinspoon says.
The rule of thumb when ingesting edibles is to start low and go slow, Grinspoon advises.
JM
6.
Is relying on my smartphone and GPS bad for my brain?
I read that relying too much on my smartphone for GPS, phone numbers, etc.
isnt doing my brain any favors.
Could my phone use be causing my recent decline in memory?
For people 65 and older with Medicare Part B, this kind ofcognitive health visitis covered every year.
Even if youre younger, its worth checking.
