Heather Jones, Freelance Journalist Profile

Articles

Understanding CoolSculpting Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Oct 30, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

CoolSculpting is generally considered low-risk for good candidates for the procedure. If side effects occur, they tend to be mild to moderate and resolve on their own. Rarely, more serious adverse effects can occur, such as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH).
Green vs. Red Grapes: Which One Is Better for Your Health?

Oct 9, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

Red and green grapes both contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, red grapes have anthocyanins, which are not found in green grapes. Red grapes also contain more of the antioxidant resveratrol. Cavan Images / Getty Images The Verdict: Which Grape Is Better? Which grape is best depends on what you are looking for. All grapes have elements that promote beneficial health effects, though darker-colored grapes, like red grapes, may contain more antioxidants.
RSV vs. Cold: Cough Traits, Viral Patterns, Treatment

Oct 3, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes cold-like symptoms in most people but can cause more serious problems in some, especially babies and older adults. Almost all children get RSV at least once by the time they turn 2 years old. The common cold is an upper respiratory tract infection caused by different viruses, most commonly rhinovirus. Adults get a cold an average of two to three times a year, and children tend to have more than that.
Are Apple Cider Vinegar Shots Actually Good for You?

Oct 3, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

There are many health claims surrounding apple cider vinegar (ACV) shot consumption, but most are not backed by solid evidence. Some research shows ACV may help regulate blood sugar and raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, considered "good cholesterol," but these effects are minimal and should not be used as treatment. Mohd Isham Ismail / Getty Images Are There Proven Health Benefits of ACV Shots?
How to Identify and Treat a Furuncle (Boil)

Sep 27, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

A furuncle, also called a boil, is a bump on the skin filled with pus caused by an infection. It can resemble a large pimple, but furuncles are deeper in the skin and tend to be more painful. The most common cause of furuncles is the Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria, but other types of bacteria or fungi on the surface of the skin can also cause them. The infection grows into a hair follicle and the tissues under it.
Are There Reasons Not to Get the Meningitis Vaccine?

Sep 25, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the meningococcal vaccine (also called the meningitis vaccine) for all teens, preteens, and children and adults at increased risk. The vaccine is made from parts of dead meningococcal bacteria and helps the body build a defense system against future meningococcal infections. You cannot get infected with the disease by the vaccine.
Kegel Exercises: Benefits, How to, and Precautions

Sep 25, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

Kegel exercises ("Kegels"), which involve squeezing the pelvic floor muscles, can help strengthen pelvic floor muscles in all genders. A typical Kegel program is sets of 10 squeezes, three times per day. Like other forms of physical activity, Kegel exercises should be worked into lifelong habits to see lasting benefits. Kegel exercises are not a good option for everyone. Talk to your healthcare provider before trying Kegel exercises.
Sperm vs. Semen: Is There a Difference?

Sep 19, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

The terms "sperm" and "semen" are often used interchangeably, but they are different things. Spermatozoa (sperm) are microscopic sex cells that carry genetic material. About 20 million to 600 million sperm are released with each ejaculation. Semen, also called ejaculate, is the bodily fluid released during ejaculation. An average of about 2 to 5 milliliters of semen is released with each ejaculation. About 1% to 5% of semen is made up of sperm cells.
What Is an Oncologist and How to Find One

Sep 18, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

An oncologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing and treating cancer. A primary care healthcare provider will typically refer an individual to an oncologist if they suspect the person may have cancer, often after using diagnostic tests and tools. There are different types of oncologists, including medical, radiation, preventative medicine, surgical, and palliative medicine. Oncologists may also specialize in certain types of cancers.
Ankle Pain When Walking: Why They Hurt, What You Can Do

Sep 16, 2024 | verywellhealth.com | Heather Jones

Most ankle pain can be managed with rest, modifying activities, supportive footwear, over-the-counter pain medication, and other conservative measures. However, some causes may require further treatment. RealPeopleGroup / Getty Images What Can Cause General Ankle Pain When Walking?