Medical News Today


Welcome to today's MNT newsletter, bringing you the most recent headlines and updated stories from our team of expert writers.

Stay informed with the latest developments in the current COVID-19 pandemic and our dedicated COVID-19 daily newsletter.


Autism
Encopresis: What it is and how to manage it
Encopresis is leaking of stool in children after toilet training. There are many potential causes, including emotional stress and underlying conditions.


Back Pain
Symptoms of a pinched nerve in the lower back
A pinched nerve in the lower back may cause pain in the legs and feet. Learn about the symptoms, treatments, exercises, and home remedies here.


Dentistry
How long do canker sores last? Stages of healing
Canker sores usually last for 1–2 weeks, depending on the type of lesion. We look at how long canker sores take to heal and how to treat them.


Dermatology
What to know about swollen, puffy eyes
In most cases, fluid retention in the tissue around the eyes causes swelling or puffiness, which can occur due to crying or sleep. Learn more here.


Diabetes
Does Medicare cover diabetes supplies?
Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Part D, and Medigap may provide coverage for diabetes supplies and services. There may be extra costs.


Emergency Medicine
Does Medicare cover transportation costs for older adults?
Medicare covers both emergency transport and, in some circumstances, nonemergency transport for older adults. Read on for more.
5 causes of facial paralysis
Facial paralysis occurs when something interrupts the signals between the brain and the facial muscles. Learn more about five causes and their treatment options here.


Epilepsy
Best types of salad dressing for a keto diet
Keto-friendly salad dressings are high in fat and low in carbohydrates. Find out the best types of salad dressing to make at home or buy in stores.


Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness
What to know about Lipozene
What is Lipozene, and does it really work? Read on to find what current research says, including the safety, benefits, risks, and effectiveness.


Health Insurance / Medical Insurance
Does Medicare cover prescription medication?
Medicare covers prescription medication in different ways. Different Medicare parts have different benefit levels. Read on for more.
Do Blue Cross offer Medicare Advantage plans?
Blue Cross Blue Shield offers Medicare Advantage plans in many, but not all, U.S. states. Coverage may also differ by location. Read on to find out more.


Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
What are the neurological complications of COVID-19?
A new study has looked into the neurological complications that COVID-19 can cause in some patients, including instances of brain inflammation.


Mental Health
How to help someone who is having a panic attack
Find out what to do when someone is having a panic attack. We also discuss what to avoid doing, how to help someone breathe, and when to get help.


Nutrition / Diet
Could zinc protect against COVID-19?
'Given the crucial role of zinc in regulation of immunity, its insufficiency may be considered as a risk factor for infectious diseases,' say the authors.


Osteoporosis
What to expect from a 25-hydroxy vitamin D test
A 25-hydroxy vitamin D test measures how much vitamin D is in someone's blood. Learn what to expect, what the results mean, and how to boost vitamin D levels.


Public Health
‘To be safe means to be healthy’ — Expert on racial health disparities
Prof. Hedwig Lee explains how racial inequalities in wealth, housing, and policing are all interconnected to form a broader picture of health.
Editorial highlights flaws in reporting COVID-19 research
A new editorial suggests that health organizations and the media have frequently not been properly reporting on COVID-19 research.