While it’s fun for your kids to play in Fall leaf piles, there are some risks to be aware of, including allergens, molds, insects and spiders. While these things can be concerning, it is possible to mitigate these risks without stopping the fun; in this blog, Priscilla Blossom asks Dr. Brynna Connor and several other experts for advice on how to do so.
Is it safe to drink tap water? This Fox News article asks Dr. Brynna Connor to weigh in on the risks of drinking unfiltered tap water. According to Connor, as long as it’s from a public water system and there are no boil-water advisories, it is generally safe.
In some cases, Dr. Connor explains, there could be risks, including lead poisoning, hepatitis, nitrate contamination, and fluoride exposure. These risks, Dr, Connor explains, are greater for infants, elderly folks, and those with weakened immune systems.
While these risks are serious, Connor emphasizes the U.S. public water regulations are better than anywhere in the world. Importantly however, these regulations only apply to public water systems, not privately owned wells, which can contain greater contaminants.
One solution is to get a home-filtration system. If you decide to do so, Dr. Cherilyn Davis says, ensure that the system you get only filters out chemicals that are unwanted, as not all chemicals in the water are unhealthy.
Does the decision to wear a bra or not affect your breasts? This blog asks experts like Dr. Brynna Connor to get a better understanding of the effects of wearing vs forgoing a bra.
According to prosthesis specialist Elisa Lawson, wearing a bra may prevent sagging if you are a C cup or larger. On the other hand, French scientist Jean Denis Rouillon suggested in 2013 that bras may increase sagging. Headlines about this “15-year-long study” by Rouillon blew up in 2013, however, these articles all cite a radio interview with Rouillon, rather than the study itself, which was in preliminary stages (Reuters) and does not appear to have ever been published.
According to Dr. Brynna Connor, not wearing a bra may help increase muscle tone by “forc[ing] the muscles in your chest and back to work harder to support your breasts.” Further, going braless on occasion could be healthy for your skin. If a bra does not fit properly, it “can cause sweat to build up underneath the breast area, which can cause bacterial or fungal infections,” as well as chafing.
In short, it may be healthier for your skin if you do not wear a bra 24×7. But, there is no reason to avoid bras if you are comfortable wearing them, and no reason to wear one if you find them uncomfortable. If you choose to wear a bra, choose one that has a proper fit.
In this blog post, Priscilla Blossom talks to Brynna Connor and other medical experts about the most effective ways of taking pill medications.
Should I take my pills with food?
While some pills should be taken with food, others are meant to be consumed on an empty stomach. It is important to check the instructions for each medication. (Be aware that some foods and drinks, such as dairy products or citrus fruits, may cause medication to be less effective.)
Should I take my pills with water?
Yes. Water not only makes it easier to take the pill, but helps absorb the medication so that it will be more effective.
If you are still struggling, try adjusting your posture. It may seem natural to move your head up, but this will make things more difficult. Move your head slightly forwards when taking a pill – this helps open your esophagus, making it easier to swallow.
What about aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen?
Each of these drugs have their distinct purposes. While aspirin and ibuprofen are more effective for inflammatory symptoms, such as menstrual cramps or arthritis, some people have trouble tolerating these medications and may opt for acetaminophen (Tylonal), which is less irritating to the stomach lining.
It is important to check the dosing guidelines for each medication, as these can vary.
Getting a flu shot can help prevent or reduce severity of the illness. But, for those who are averse to needles and offices, there is a new option.
The FluMist nasal flu vaccine has been approved for individuals ages 2-49. The nasal flu vaccine will be fully covered by insurance, just like the shot. Unlike the shot, it can be self-administered at home. With a doctor’s prescription, the at-home nasal vaccine can be ordered from the pharmacy, and should be available around fall of 2025.
What is the difference between the shot and nasal flu vaccine?
In this msn.com blog, Dr. Brynna Connor explains “While the flu shot is made up of inactive viruses, the at-home nasal flu vaccine is made up of live but weakened viruses.” Neither are capable of causing the flu. Both vaccines last slightly over six months, so Dr. Connor recommends taking the nasal spray (or the shot) annually.
To maximize effectiveness, Dr. Connor recommends self-administering the flumist as soon as possible (one spray in each nostril). If you cannot, then store in a refrigerator (35-46° F) and use prior to the expiration date.
The stomach bug, also known as Norovirus, is highly contagious; however, it is possible to avoid contamination, even from someone in close proximity. That is why it is important to know how this virus spreads, and what kills it. In this article, Dr. Brynna Connor and other experts will tell you what you need to know to avoid catching the stomach bug if your child brings it home.
First, it is important to know if the child or person you’re living with has the bug, or food poisoning. The biggest indicator is how quickly after exposure the symptoms came on. While food-poisoning symptoms can occur after only several hours, Norovirus takes 24-48 hours.
How does it spread?
It spreads from germs in the vomit or feces of the contagious child. Since the virus can survive on surfaces for a long time, it can easily be transmitted.
Unlike something like Covid19, the virus is not easily spread through sneezing and talking. Masking will not prevent you from getting sick.
How to avoid catching the bug:
Zinc is a mineral that helps stimulate the body’s immune system. Because our bodies do not produce zinc naturally, it must be obtained by consuming plants and animals that do.
Can zinc help treat the common cold?
Several studies have found that taking zinc may reduce the duration of cold symptoms.
How can I take zinc safely?
In this article, Dr. Brynna Connor suggests taking no more than 40 mg of zinc supplements per day, orally – avoid zinc nasal sprays. Consult a healthcare provider to ensure that zinc does not interact with other medications you take.
Recent TikTok shorts have generated anxiety over something called “cortisol face,” i.e. puffy, bloated facial features caused by excess amounts of the stress hormone cortisol.
In this piece on verywellmind.com, Dr. Brynna Connor helps readers identify if their symptoms are “cortisol face” or something more serious, and offers stress-reduction techniques for treating these symptoms.
Foods with high fiber and protein content can help to cultivate a healthy gut microbiome, whereas most desserts offer little more than sugar and starch.
In this article, 12 High-Protein Desserts For Better Gut Health, Marium Qayum asks twelve experts, including Dr. Brynna Connor, for their recommendations for nutritious and gut-friendly dessert options.
How do people contract West Nile Virus, and what are its symptoms?
West Nile Virus is spread to humans through mosquitoes. While many who contract the virus are asymptomatic, others can experience severe flu-like symptoms. Since there is no vaccine or cure for the virus, it is treated by managing these symptoms.
How can I prevent contracting West Nile Virus?
The best method of prevention is to limit exposure to mosquitoes. This can be done through DEET repellent, protective clothing, and screens installed on doors and windows. You may also prevent further mosquito breeding by emptying any sources of stagnant water near your home.
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