Researchers in Brazil studied the benefit of oropharyngeal exercises for patients with sleep apnea. The exercises were taught by a sleep pathologist. They consisted of exercises for the soft palate, tongue, and facial muscles. The treated patients reportedly experienced a 50 percent improvement in their sleep disorder.
As the weather cools, decreased need for air-conditioning can lead to increased indoor moisture with the attendant increase in indoor mold. Using a dehumidifier can be very helpful to avoid this problem.
A study in Finland demonstrated reduced chance for winter respiratory infections by taking vitamin D supplements. Because of its northern climate, vitamin D levels fall in winter in Finland. Vitamin D is known to help a variety of immune functions in addition to its benefit for bones.
During ragweed season certain foods can exacerbate ragweed allergy. The worst culprits are chamomile and melons.
Researchers in the United Kingdom found that following the indoor smoking ban instituted in 2006, hospital admission rates for asthma in children dropped 18 percent per year.
Despite the fun and stolen kisses that mistletoe can provide during the holiday season, keep in mind it can be a contact allergy for some allergic individuals. Contact with the skin can lead to a poison-ivy-type rash.