Puberty blockers have been shown to cause long-term fertility problems in boys, according to a preprint study from Mayo Clinic.

The study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, analyzed more than 130,000 sperm cells from male children with gender dysphoria. 

All participants were 17 or younger.

TRANS CHILDREN WHO TOOK PUBERTY-BLOCKING DRUGS HAD MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES, UK STUDY FOUND

The researchers analyzed the testicular cells of boys who had been taking puberty blockers for anywhere from three months to 52 months, and compared them to cells of a control group who had not been on the blockers.

Among those on puberty blockers, the researchers identified mild to severe “sex gland atrophy,” determining that the medications accelerated the aging and function of testicular cells.

The findings suggest that puberty blockers’ impacts may be permanent — disputing claims that such effects can be reversed.

The researchers also detected cases of microlithiasis, which is marked by the presence of small clusters of calcium in the testicles.

‘GENDER-AFFIRMING’ TREATMENTS DON’T BENEFIT YOUTH, SAYS PEDIATRICIANS GROUP: ‘IRREVERSIBLE CONSEQUENCES’

Additional research from Mayo Clinic has linked testicular microlithiasis to an increased risk of testicular cancer. 

“We provide unprecedented histological evidence revealing detrimental pediatric testicular sex gland responses to [puberty blockers],” the authors wrote in the study findings.

Doctors highlight the risks

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, was not involved in the Mayo Clinic research but commented on the use of puberty blockers.

“Thousands of U.S. children — more than ever before — are experiencing gender dysphoria and many go on to identify as transgender,” Siegel told Fox News Digital. 

Dr. Marc Siegel, left, of New York, and Dr. Brett Osborn of Florida, both offered thoughts on the potential risks of puberty-blocking medications. (Dr. Marc Siegel/Dr. Brett Osborn)

“They certainly still face a stigma for this, which needs to be addressed — but at the same time, the growing rush to gender-affirming treatment is disturbing, particularly without parental approval.”

In 2021, approximately 42,167 children received gender dysphoria diagnoses, almost triple the 15,172 reported in 2017, according to Reuters.

“Much of this is politically driven, and may lead to premature treatments that are not offered in the U.K., Finland, Sweden or many other countries,” Siegel said.

EXPOSING THE TRANS AGENDA AIMED AT OUR KIDS: FAITH LEADER REVEALS HOW PARENTS CAN KEEP CHILDREN SAFE

Among the puberty-blocking drugs is lupron (leuprolide), which is a type of hormone therapy used for advanced prostate cancer. 

It is also used to stop early puberty in children, according to WebMD.

“It helps to delay sexual development (such as growth of the breasts/testicles) and the start of menstrual periods,” WebMD reported. 

“It also helps slow down early bone growth to increase the likelihood of reaching normal adult height.”

In the majority of cases, one physician recommends that any hormonal interventions should be delayed until an older age. (iStock)

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported 10,000 adverse effects in children in 2017 — including mood swings, cognitive problems, suicidal thoughts, longer-term fertility problems, seizures, migraines, brittle bones, brain swelling and vision loss, according to Siegel.

Experts also warn of the potential mental impacts of these drugs.

“Transgender individuals are three times more likely than the general population to suffer from anxiety, depression and neurodevelopmental issues,” Siegel warned. 

“Much of this is politically driven, and may lead to premature treatments.”

Although some studies have shown that interventions such as puberty blockers may decrease anxiety in the short term, Siegel pointed out that “there are no longer-term head-to-head trials versus extensive therapy and watchful waiting.” 

Puberty blockers typically lead children down a path to long-term use of transgender-affirming hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, he noted.

Puberty blockers typically lead children down a path to long-term use of transgender-affirming hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, according to doctors. (iStock)

“These hormones carry their own risks — for example, estrogen may increase the incidence of breast cancer,” Siegel said.

“Bottom line, I don’t believe puberty blockers should be given routinely to children and teens for gender dysphoria,” Siegel said. “There are too many long-term risks, including the idea that the children or teens may change their minds.”

SURFER BETHANY HAMILTON SPEAKS OUT AGAINST NEW RULE ALLOWING TRANSGENDER WOMEN TO COMPETE WITH FEMALES

In the majority of cases, Siegel recommends that any hormonal interventions or gender reassignment surgeries be delayed until an older age.

He added, “Intensive supportive and cognitive therapy makes sense as an initial approach.”

“Transgender individuals are three times more likely than the general population to suffer from anxiety, depression and neurodevelopmental issues,” Dr. Marc Siegel of New York warned.  (iStock                       )

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurologist and longevity expert who was also not involved in the new research, noted that previous studies have shown that puberty-blocking drugs can alter the normal progression of testicular cells, potentially leading to atrophy or abnormal development.

“Specifically, the drugs impact the normal function of ‘spermatogonial’ stem cells (SSCs), which are crucial for sperm production and overall reproductive health,” he told Fox News Digital.

“The changes induced by these medications may be permanent, contrary to popular opinion among transgender activists.”

“Disruption in their development could result in reduced fertility or other reproductive issues later in life,” he continued. “Based on the researchers’ histologic findings, the changes induced by these medications may be permanent, contrary to popular opinion among transgender activists.”

Added Osborn, “These medications are not as benign as billed.”

Hormones such as testosterone, progesterone and estrogen are critical for brain development, memory and cognition, one doctor noted. (iStock)

The risks go beyond infertility, the doctor warned.

“There are also downrange effects of altered hormone levels on brain development, let alone other organ systems,” he said. 

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Hormones such as testosterone, progesterone and estrogen are critical for brain development, memory and cognition, Osborn pointed out. 

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The doctor called for “safer and more effective” treatments for those with gender dysphoria.

“Gaining insight into the full impact of these medications — the usage of which has become more prevalent — is crucial for future generations.”

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Immediately after Monday’s solar eclipse, the number of people searching Google for eye-related injuries jumped while one doctor in New York City says she treated a surge of patients with eye pain.

“I had several patients come in panicking saying ‘I don’t want to go blind,’” Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a New York City-based double board-certified doctor tells Fox News Digital. “I couldn’t believe it, people actually looked at the eclipse without protection.”

Doctors and eye specialists had been warning the public for days not to look directly at the sun, but apparently, some did not heed the advice. 

SOLAR ECLIPSE EYE SAFETY: CAN STARING AT THE SUN CAUSE BLINDNESS?

Looking at the sun without protective equipment such as solar eclipse glasses can harm vision and can lead to serious and permanent damage. Nesheiwat says the sun’s rays can burn the retina and damage the macula, the part of the retina at the back of the eye that is responsible for central vision.

Google searches for “hurt eyes” and “why do my eyes hurt after the eclipse” rose after the moon and sun aligned on Monday.

In terms of national figures, a CDC spokesperson told Fox News Digital that the National Center for Health Statistics does not have any data on eye damage following the eclipse. 

However, Nesheiwat says she treated up to eight patients who came into the City MD she works out of near Madison Square Garden in Midtown Manhattan, with one patient looking at the sun either directly or through his phone for about 10 minutes, she says.

“The damage can be irreversible if the retina is severely damaged by looking directly at the without proper eye protection. Some people may have mild symptoms if the exposure to the sun was brief.”

Dr. Janette Nesheiwat says she treated patients for eye damage on Monday following the eclipse. (Fox News, left, and Gary Hershorn/Getty Images, right.)

FOR SOLAR ECLIPSE SAFETY, HERE’S WHAT DRIVERS SHOULD NOT DO ON THE ROAD DURING THE RARE EVENT

“Symptoms my patients suffered included headaches, blurry vision, and nausea while one of my patients said he was seeing spots. Other symptoms can include a change in color vision,” Nesheiwat added, saying she sent that patient to an eye care specialist, known as an ophthalmologist, for further treatment. “Then it was crazy, we were trying to make appointments for them with the eye specialists and all the eye specialists were booked up within an hour.”

She treated some patients with nausea medicine and eyedrops and recommended they have follow-up appointments with an eye doctor. 

Symptoms may appear after a few days, Nesheiwat said, and she urged people to visit a medical doctor to have a full eye examination if this is the case. 

In the meantime, she said those people should stop looking at the sun, avoid rubbing their eyes, avoid strenuous activities on the eyes like excessive reading or use of electronic devices. She added they need to make sure they are wearing sunglasses that have UV protection when outdoors also. 

People watch with solar glasses as the moon starts to cross in front of the sun during a total solar eclipse in Carbondale, Illinois on April 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

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While the vast majority took precautions while gazing at the eclipse, there is a chance some may have done so with solar eclipse glasses that have been recalled. 

The Illinois Department of Public Health sent out a last-minute recall notice on Monday for eclipse glasses that may have potentially failed to meet safety standards. 

The agency asked customers to double-check if they had bought the glasses labeled “EN ISO 12312-1:2022” and warned them not to use the glasses to view the eclipse. 

The glasses in question were reportedly sold through Amazon as “Biniki Solar Eclipse Glasses AAS Approved 2024 – CE & ISO Certified Safe Shades for Direct Sun Viewing (6 Packs).” The glasses were also reportedly available at several Southern Illinois retail establishments, including Farm Fresh Market in Breese, Highland Tru Buy in Highland, Perry County Marketplace in Pinckneyville, Sinclair Foods in Jerseyville, Steelville Marketplace in Steelville and Big John Grocery in Metropolis.

This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

For some seniors, retirement brings the unbridled joy of more time with loved ones — but for others, the golden years can end up being quite blue.

More than a third of older adults said they feel lonely at least once a week, according to the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging.

The U.S. Surgeon General even called loneliness and social isolation a “serious health epidemic” in his Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community.

HEALTH CARE IS ‘OVERWHELMINGLY COMPLEX’ FOR OLDER ADULTS, EXPERTS SAY: ‘EVER-INCREASING HURDLE’

“The transition from a structured work life to retirement can lead to a significant decrease in social interactions and a sense of purpose,” Neal Shah, CEO of CareYaya Health Technologies, an elder care provider in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, told Fox News Digital. 

“This, combined with factors like the loss of a spouse, loss of friends or reduced mobility, can contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness.”

Burden of loneliness

While loneliness might seem relatively harmless, experts warn that it can be very harmful.

“Loneliness can have severe consequences on both mental and physical health,” Shah warned.

“It can lead to depression, anxiety, cognitive decline and even an increased risk of developing dementia.”

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The mental effects of loneliness can indirectly impact physical health, Shah said. 

“Lonely individuals may engage in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, drinking or having a poor diet,” he said.

“They may also have weakened immune systems — making them more susceptible to illnesses and chronic diseases.”

While loneliness might seem relatively harmless, experts warn that it can be very harmful. “Loneliness can have severe consequences on both mental and physical health,” an expert said.  (iStock)

Loneliness has also been linked to an increased risk of stroke, dementia and heart disease, Nassar noted.

“Being lonely can literally and metaphorically break your heart.”

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Loneliness has also been shown to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, addiction and earlier mortality, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

There could be monetary costs associated with loneliness, too, as studies have found that adults over age 50 who are lonely are more susceptible to financial scams.

3 wise ways to relieve loneliness

There are many strategies to help relieve loneliness in older adults — including these three tips. 

1. Retired seniors should stay socially active and engaged

“This can include joining clubs or groups that align with their interests, volunteering, attending community events or taking classes to learn new skills,” said Shah. 

Loneliness has been linked to an increased risk of stroke, dementia and heart disease, experts note. (iStock)

2. They should maintain and nurture existing relationships with family and friends

Shah stressed this point — and noted that adopting a pet can also provide companionship and a sense of purpose.

Nassar echoed the importance of increasing social activities, such as playing cards, joining a book club, partaking in bingo or quiz nights, and being part of a faith group.

HOME HOSPITAL CARE BRINGS ‘PHENOMENAL’ BENEFITS TO PATIENTS AND PROVIDERS, STUDY FINDS

“It is in our nature to want to be with each other, and it’s important we make time to meet this need for connection,” he said.

3. They should lean on technology if they don’t have family or friends nearby

“Video calls, social media and online forums can help [retired seniors] interact with loved ones and like-minded individuals,” said Shah.

Joining clubs or groups that align with their interests, volunteering, attending community events or taking classes to learn new skills are all ways that retired seniors can prevent loneliness. (iStock)

In-home care services or companion programs can also provide regular social interaction and support, he added.

When to reach out for help

While occasional sadness or “blues” are normal, persistent feelings can impact the quality of life and may indicate a more serious depressive disorder, said Shah.

“It’s essential to recognize that loneliness and depression are serious issues that can significantly impact a retired adult’s quality of life,” he said.

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Signs that a senior might be dealing with depression include persistently feeling sad, hopeless or empty for more than two weeks, according to the expert.

“Other indicators include loss of interest in activities the [individuals] once enjoyed, changes in sleep patterns or appetite, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide,” he told Fox News Digital.

If depression symptoms are severe and interfere with daily life, it’s crucial to seek professional help, experts advise. (iStock)

“If these symptoms are severe and interfere with daily life, it’s crucial to seek professional help.”

Family and friends should also monitor retired loved ones. 

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If they notice any warning signs, Shah said, the first step is to have an open, non-judgmental conversation expressing their concern. 

“Promoting a strong support system, encouraging social engagement and prioritizing mental health is key to helping retired adults thrive,” he said. 

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“If you or a loved one are experiencing persistent feelings of loneliness or depression, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are numerous resources and professionals available to provide support and guidance.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health.

The list of sacrifices women make for their children just got longer, as a new study reveals that pregnancy can accelerate aging in young mothers.

Research from the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that women who had been pregnant in the past looked “biologically older” than those who had never carried a child.

The effect was compounded in women who had more pregnancies compared to those who had fewer pregnancies, according to a press release from the university.

EXPERIMENTAL DRUG COULD HELP EASE MENOPAUSE-RELATED SYMPTOMS, RESEARCHERS SAY

Data was gathered for 1,735 young people (ages 20 to 22) in the Philippines. 

The findings were published in the medical journey Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences.

The researchers used new DNA tools — called “epigenetic clocks” — to analyze cellular information related to health, aging and mortality risk, the release stated.

The same effect on biological aging was not reported among fathers, which suggests that the effect is associated with pregnancy or breastfeeding.

WOMEN WHO DRINK MORE THAN 8 ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES A WEEK ARE AT GREATER RISK OF HEART DISEASE: NEW STUDY

“We found that the number of pregnancies reported by young women was associated with faster biological aging using multiple measures that predict health and mortality later in life,” Calen Ryan, PhD, associate research scientist in the Columbia Aging Center and lead author of the study, told Fox News Digital.

“These effects persisted even when accounting for a range of social and environmental factors, but were not present for same-aged men from the same cohort.”

The effect was compounded in women who had more pregnancies compared to those who had fewer pregnancies. (iStock)

The effects were seen the most in “young, high-fertility women,” said Ryan.

“Our results are also the first to follow the same women through time, linking changes in each woman’s pregnancy number to changes in her biological age.”

“We’ve been so focused on outcomes for infants that we often forget to take care of the moms.”

The fact that the number of pregnancies is linked to changes at the molecular level — long before any health changes can be detected — is a “remarkable finding,” Ryan said.

“It highlights how we have been overlooking pregnancy and other key aspects of women’s health when we study the aging process.”

The researchers used new DNA tools — called “epigenetic clocks” — to analyze cellular information related to health, aging and mortality risk. (iStock)

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, was not involved in the study but reviewed the findings.

“The effects aren’t that pronounced, but they are in keeping with what we know about pregnancy — a period of inflammation, decreased overall immune function, rapid cell turnover, and increased stress and metabolic function,” he told Fox News Digital.

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“All of this contributes to cellular aging, where metabolic functions begin to decline.”

Longer-term studies would need to be done to determine whether the effects are reversible over time, Siegel noted.

Study limitations

The study did have some limitations, according to Ryan.

The individuals in Columbia’s study were “quite young,” he said, and came from a different sociocultural context than where the measures were developed. 

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“We need to continue to study the extent to which these measures of biological aging translate to health outcomes as women age in the context of the Philippines, where this study was carried out,” Ryan told Fox News Digital.

“We still have a lot to learn about the role of pregnancy and other aspects of reproduction in the aging process.”

The same effect on biological aging was not reported among fathers, which suggests that the effect is associated with pregnancy or breastfeeding. (iStock)

The overall effects were small, Ryan said, and they could be linked, potentially, to high fertility and unreliable access to health care and adequate nutrition.

It’s not yet clear how the accelerated aging will impact women’s health or mortality as they grow older.

“Strong medical, social and nutritional support for new moms is always the best policy over the long run.”

“The message here is not all doom and gloom — but it does highlight the fact that we’ve been so focused on outcomes for infants that we often forget to take care of the moms,” he said. 

Rather than relying on anecdotal stories, Ryan said he hopes studies like this one promote a better understanding of how, when and to what extent women’s biology is changed by pregnancy — and perhaps point toward ways to mitigate those effects.

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Ryan added, “Strong medical, social and nutritional support for new moms is always the best policy over the long run.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

‘CONNECTION OVER CORRECTION’ – A dementia expert shares her non-traditional approach to handling — and combating — Alzheimer’s disease. Continue reading…

COOL CURE? – Ice could be an effective weapon against breast cancer tumors, researchers say. Continue reading…

ACCELERATED AGING – Biological age is a driver of young-onset cancers, a new study reveals. Continue reading…

A new study found that those with a higher biological age had a 42% increased risk of early-onset lung cancer, were 22% more prone to early-onset gastrointestinal cancer, and had a 36% higher risk for early-onset uterine cancer. (iStock)

SKYROCKETING STDs – Sexually transmitted disease rates have risen sharply in a certain age group – and the demographic may surprise you. Continue reading…

DANGEROUS REACTIONS – A pediatric immunologist shares 10 surprising facts about peanut allergies that parents should know. Continue reading…

BIRD FLU FRENZY – The European Union has warned of the potential spread to humans due to a “lack of immune defense.” Continue reading…

As avian influenza (bird flu) continues to spread among wild birds in the European Union, officials are warning of the potential for a future human pandemic. (REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo)

SPOTLIGHT ON CANCER – The White House has declared April 2024 as Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month. A cancer expert explains the significance. Continue reading…

CONQUERING COLD SORES – Doctors reveal 5 smart tips for reducing unsightly fever blisters. Continue reading…

CRIB CONCERNS – The main sleeping dangers for babies are revealed in a new study. Continue reading…

Allowing babies to sleep outside their cribs can have life-threatening risks, according to a recent study by the CDC. (iStock)

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With more people dying from Alzheimer’s disease than ever before, experts are emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.

The number of fatalities due to the disease increased by 141% between 2000 and 2021, according to the 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report.

Also, the number of Americans living with the disease is on the rise as well — up to 6.9 million and counting.

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“As older adults — mostly baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 — are the fastest-growing segment of the population, and this same demographic is at the highest risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, it is not entirely surprising that the number of cases continues to grow,” Dr. James Galvin, chief of cognitive neurology and director of the Comprehensive Center for Brain Health at The University of Miami Health System, told Fox News Digital.

Another factor contributing to the uptick of cases is that the disease is getting detected earlier, he noted — “due to scientific advances in knowledge, diagnostic criteria and laboratory tests that enable health care professionals to make diagnoses with greater surety and accuracy.”

Importance of early detection 

Early detection and diagnosis allows the family to plan for future care at a time when the patient is able to express their wishes and desires, Galvin noted. 

Also, many of the available medications to reduce symptoms are most effective when started early in the course of the disease, he added.

Patients who are diagnosed early will also have a better chance of enrolling in clinical trials for new medications and diagnostics.

Many of the available medications to reduce symptoms are most effective when started early in the course of Alzheimer’s disease, said one expert.  (iStock)

“There are newer medications that have the potential for disease modification that are approved or under consideration for approval, so patients have more treatment options,” Galvin said.

The current medications largely treat symptoms and slow progression of disease — but several trials are underway to test prevention therapies.

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE FOUND TO BE TRANSMITTED THROUGH MEDICAL PROCEDURES DECADES AGO, STUDY FINDS

“Specifically, these are monoclonal antibodies against the amyloid beta-protein, the building block of the senile plaques in the Alzheimer’s brain,” Galvin said.

“This is particularly exciting, because rather than being reactive after the disease starts, these new programs are proactive and could potentially have a much greater impact on public health.”

Can Alzheimer’s be reversed?

Dr. Heather Sandison, a leading expert in Alzheimer’s and related dementia care who is based in California, said that in some cases, the disease can be slowed or even reversed.

“The ways for individuals to potentially reverse Alzheimer’s vary, because the causes of Alzheimer’s vary from person to person,” Sandison, author of the upcoming book “Reversing Alzheimer’s: The New Toolkit to Improve Cognition and Protect Brain Health,” told Fox News Digital. 

Early detection and diagnosis allows the family to plan for future care at a time when the patient is able to express their wishes and desires, a doctor noted. (iStock)

“Instead of thinking of one way or one of two ways, I propose an entirely new paradigm of thinking about the causes of Alzheimer’s disease — identifying them for the individual and creating a targeted, precise approach to treatment.”

One person, for example, may have Alzheimer’s that is associated with genetic predisposition, high blood sugar and a history of strokes, she noted.

“The choices you make each day about what you put in your mouth, how much you move and what time you get to bed have the biggest impact on your long-term brain health.”

Another individual may have Alzheimer’s caused by the inhalation of toxins from environmental pollution, obstructive sleep apnea reducing the oxygen supply, and a history of traumatic brain injuries. 

Someone else may have all of these factors.

“We would treat these individuals differently,” Sandison said.

“The way for an individual to potentially reverse Alzheimer’s varies, because the causes of Alzheimer’s vary from person to person,” an expert said. (iStock)

Regardless of risk factors, Sandison said the best ways to prevent Alzheimer’s are to eat a diet high in vegetables, good fats and proteins, while also getting regular vigorous exercise, quality sleep and daily stress management practices.

“The choices you make each day about what you put in your mouth, how much you move and what time you get to bed have the biggest impact on your long-term brain health,” she said.

Like any complex system, the brain and body require a “homeodynamic balance” to function well, according to Sandison.

“Imbalance — too much, too little, in the wrong place, at the wrong time — will create dysfunction and, in the case of the body and brain, disease,” she warned.

“The primary causes of imbalance in the brain include toxins, nutrients, stressors, structure, infections and signaling.”

The number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease has risen to 6.9 million. Like any complex system, the brain and body require a “homeodynamic balance” to function well, said one expert.  (iStock)

With her reversal techniques, Sandison said she sees the best results with patients who are younger than 75, have MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) scores of 18 and above, and have a supportive network of loved ones around them, “so they can dive fully into the lifestyle changes.”

She added, “That being said, we have seen miraculous results with patients in their 80s with single-digit MoCA scores.”

DEMENTIA AMONG YOUNGER PEOPLE IS LINKED TO 15 FACTORS, MAJOR STUDY REVEALS

“You don’t have to be perfect, but in order to get results, you need to be willing and able to make some changes,” Sandison continued. 

“If you have that, there is room for hope, no matter how much the disease has progressed.”

To her patients, Sandison recommends combining lifestyle recommendations with conventional medicine. 

“Diet, lifestyle and functional medicine approaches are best used collaboratively with a primary care provider and neurologist on your team,” she said.

“I am hopeful that in the future, we will use the plaque-busting drugs to reduce structural changes in the brain … in combination with the multi-pronged approach to reversing Alzheimer’s.”

‘Connection over correction’

Sandison coined the “connection over correction” approach as a way of helping caregivers deal with what can often feel like an “overwhelming burden.”

BE WELL: TAKE SMART STEPS TO REDUCE THE STRESS OF CAREGIVING 

“There are complex emotions — ranging from joy and gratitude for the precious time with a loved one to grief and despair as you lose them slowly,” she said.

“The physical, financial and emotional toll adds up.”

Regardless of what risk factors someone has, experts recommend eating a diet high in vegetables, good fats and proteins combined with regular vigorous exercise to help reduce dementia risk. (iStock)

One way to reduce the burden is to accept that your loved one has changed and stop correcting them, according to Sandison. 

“Focus your energy on connecting with them in a way that honors their current capacity,” she advised. 

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“If they make a mistake with a word or repeat a question or miss an appointment … make accommodations and focus on the positive aspects of the day, not dwelling on or emphasizing the mistake.”

The “connection over correction” approach is a way of helping caregivers deal with what can often feel like an “overwhelming burden,” an expert said. (iStock)

Having compassion for loved ones with dementia and understanding they have a disease they cannot control can help to reframe these frustrating situations, she said. 

“We all function best when we are experiencing connections with others and when we can avoid the unnecessary stress of feeling we are wrong or as if we have displeased someone,” Sandison added.

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The biggest myth surrounding brain health, she said, is that nothing can be done to prevent or reverse dementia or Alzheimer’s. 

“That just isn’t true,” she said. “It’s almost overwhelming how much you can do to optimize cognitive function at any stage of life.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

You woke up with an unsightly cold sore — but hiding out at home isn’t an option.

What can you do?

First, you’re not alone. Up to 80% of American adults have the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), which can cause cold sores (also known as fever blisters), according to Johns Hopkins.

The viral infection can cause small, fluid-filled lesions, or blisters, to form on and around the lips or inside the mouth. 

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They can sometimes show up around the nose or cheeks.

“While there is no cure, cold sores typically resolve on their own within one to two weeks,” said Dr. Robert Biernbaum, chief medical officer at WellNow Urgent Care in Chicago.

Fox News Digital consulted with experts to determine the best course of action for dealing with an unsightly flare-up.

Here are five smart tips. 

1. Treat it right away

Taking quick action is important when dealing with a cold sore, they agreed.

“This will help it go away the fastest and heal quicker,” said Dr. Laura Purdy, a board-certified family medicine physician in Brentwood, Tennessee.

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Purdy suggested purchasing an over-the-counter antiviral ointment or cream, such as Abreva.

Biernbaum also suggested trying OTC pain reliever creams like lidocaine and benzocaine to help numb the burning sensation that can come with cold sores.

2. Consider home remedies

Apple cider vinegar may be effective for some, Purdy suggested, as long as the skin doesn’t get too irritated. 

“This is a great option because it’s known to combat germs, viruses and other bacteria,” she told Fox News Digital.

Aloe vera can also have antiviral effects, she added.

Doctors suggest purchasing an over-the-counter antiviral ointment or cream to treat a cold sore right away. (iStock)

“Honey is another great option that may work for you, since it is known to help with skin wounds and injuries,” Purdy said.

“Of course, this is all personal preference and takes a little trial and error.” 

MEASLES VACCINATIONS GIVEN IN ’70S AND ’80S MAY HAVE WORN OFF BY NOW, DOCTOR WARNS

When trying a new home remedy for a cold sore, Purdy said to start out with a small amount to make sure you don’t have any adverse skin reactions. 

Using cool compresses — such as ice or cold, wet rags — can help reduce pain and redness, Biernbaum added.

3. Build up your immune system

The key to clearing a cold sore is building the immune system back up, according to Dr. Heather Hinshelwood, chief medical officer at The Fraum Center for Restorative Health on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

“That’s why they show up — your immune system loses control of a dormant virus,” she told Fox News Digital.

The key to clearing a cold sore is building the immune system back up, a doctor told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

To clear up cold sores, Hinshelwood recommended a multi-pronged attack: vitamin C, L-Lysine and Abreva, which are all available over the counter.

“Use these as quickly as possible, even before the actual abruption,” she suggested. 

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“If you can get a prescription for Valacyclovir (a prescription antiviral medication), that can help as well. Bottom line — building your immune system back up is key to clearing a cold sore.”

4. See a doctor

For persistent or painful cold sores, you may want to see a doctor to get a prescription antiviral medication.

For persistent or painful cold sores, you may want to see a doctor to get a prescription antiviral medication, experts suggested. (iStock)

“If you are experiencing swelling or discomfort, visit your local urgent care or primary care provider,” Biernbaum recommended. 

“A provider can provide prescription topical creams and, if appropriate, antiviral medications at the onset of an outbreak to help speed the healing process.”

5. Follow best practices

While waiting for a blister to clear up, the experts recommend resisting the urge to touch or pick at an open cold sore, as this can cause infection or prolong the healing process.

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Biernbaum also suggests keeping your lips moisturized.

“Also avoid acidic foods and sun exposure, as these can be triggers,” he added.

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