Staying Healthy Archive

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Why does my arm hurt after I get a shot?

Arm tenderness is the most common side effect after vaccination. The injection stretches muscle fibers and triggers an immune response, causing discomfort. People can counter pain by moving the injected arm afterward and applying a cool compress or ice pack.

Why do we need new flu shots every year?

With influenza virus, a new vaccine must be developed each year to adapt to the virus’s changing structure.

Try this: Hydration packs

A hydration pack is a backpack designed for almost any kind of outdoor activity that carries large amounts of water and allows easy, hands-free access, which provides a convenient way to stay hydrated without needing to stop for frequent water refills.

Working during retirement years

Continuing to work in retirement can address many specific health needs of men as they age, such as stronger social connection, better cognitive health, and a greater sense of purpose. Regular work has been linked with higher rates of happiness and a lower risk for multiple health conditions. For men who don’t want to re-enter the workforce, options like volunteering and mentoring can offer many of the same health benefits.

Combined with exercise, time-restricted eating may boost fat loss

A 2025 research review found that healthy adults who paired exercise with time-restricted eating lost more fat than participants who didn’t restrict their eating window—without sacrificing lean muscle tissue.

Replacing butter with plant oils may produce health benefits

A 2025 study found that replacing butter with plant-based oil such as corn, canola, soybean, or olive oil is associated with significantly lower risks of dying from cardiovascular disease or cancer.

Is exercising barefoot good for my feet?

Exercising barefoot can be done safely when walking on grass or a sandy beach, biking, or doing yoga or tai chi. But walking or running barefoot on pavement can pose numerous hazards to feet, including splinters or stress fractures.

Does spray-on sunscreen work as well as lotion?

Spray-on sunscreens can be as effective as lotion-based sunscreens for protecting skin from harmful ultraviolet light. People using sunscreen sprays should make sure skin appears wet and shiny where they’ve sprayed and rub the product in before it dries.

Second-guessing symptoms

While many health symptoms resolve quickly on their own, others linger and make people wonder if they need to see a doctor. Symptoms that warrant a doctor’s visit include drawn-out cold symptoms such as fatigue, cough, and low-grade fever; a fever lasting more than four days; unexpected symptoms when starting a new medication or after surgery; certain digestive problems; and new or worsening mental health issues.

Daily vitamin D supplements may help slow aging

Taking 2,000 International Units of supplemental vitamin D3 daily may help slow the cellular aging process, according to a 2025 study.

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