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.


Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs
What to know about peyote
Peyote is a cactus native to the southern parts of the United States. Compounds such as mescaline cause it to have a hallucinogenic effect in humans who use it.


Allergy
What can cause a sore throat, and how long does it last?
How long a sore throat lasts will depend on the cause. Here, learn about some common causes of a sore throat, how long symptoms last, and the treatment options.


Alzheimer's / Dementia
Does Medicare cover dementia care?
Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage help with dementia costs. The deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance differ between the two programs. Read more here.


Blood / Hematology
Does Medicare cover blood tests?
Original Medicare covers blood tests when ordered by a doctor. Medicare Advantage, the alternative to original Medicare, offers at least the same coverage.


Cancer / Oncology
Does Medicare cover chemotherapy?
Medicare provides coverage for chemotherapy. How a person receives the treatment and in what setting will affect which benefit applies. Read on for more.


Depression
What to know about managing depression during lockdown
What are the best ways to overcome depression during quarantine? Discover tips to help support mental health during the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown.


Dermatology
Can alcohol cause acne or make it worse?
Alcohol damages health in various ways. Some of these effects influence the skin and may indirectly cause or worsen acne. Learn more here.
Does popping a cold sore help it heal?
Popping a cold sore can lead to further cold sores, infection, and scarring. Find out what treatments to try instead to heal cold sores.


Diabetes
Genetic diabetes test effective in people of Indian heritage
New research examines whether a test for type 1 diabetes developed in European populations is effective in people of Indo-European ancestry.


Endocrinology
Natural hormone replacement therapy: How it works
Natural hormone replacement therapy may help treat a range of issues, including symptoms of menopause. However, some options are not proven or safe. Learn more here.
Electrolyte imbalance: Symptoms and treatment
An electrolyte imbalance can occur if the body is dehydrated or contains too much water. Learn about the possible causes and treatments here.


GastroIntestinal / Gastroenterology
Parasitic infections are closely linked to the microbiome
"We found that we could look at someone's microbiome and use it to predict whether someone had a gastrointestinal parasite infection," say the researchers.


Health Insurance / Medical Insurance
Medicare: What are 40 quarters?
If a person has worked and paid Medicare taxes for 40 quarters, they may be eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A. Read on for more.
Medicare and help available for seniors
Medicare and Medicaid offer help towards healthcare costs for seniors. There are many options to choose from. Read on for more.


Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
What is acute flaccid myelitis?
Acute flaccid myelitis is an uncommon neurological condition that affects the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and treatment.


Mental Health
8 top essential oil diffusers
Essential oil diffusers deliver a diluted form of essential oil into the air. There are many types available. Learn more here.
Anxiety and headaches: Links and how to get relief
Anxiety and headaches are common, yet they pose serious challenges to mental and physical health. They can occur together and have several links. Learn more.
Everything to know about dialectical behavioral therapy
What is dialectical behavioral therapy? Continue reading to learn more, including how it works, what it can treat, and how it differs from CBT.


Pharma Industry / Biotech Industry
‘Nanosponges’ act as a decoy for the new coronavirus
Researchers have discovered that a new technology may be able to both neutralize SARS-CoV-2 and treat the body's reaction to COVID-19.


Public Health
The new coronavirus may spread more easily in crowded homes
New research finds that women who live in neighborhoods and homes with a high number of inhabitants are substantially more likely to contract SARS-CoV-2.


Respiratory
How to use a nebulizer for a baby
People can use a nebulizer to help treat certain respiratory conditions in babies and infants by delivering medications. Learn more about how they work here.