The Michigan Health Blog’s 20 for 2020

Before ringing in the new decade, a quick look back at the blog’s most read stories of the year.

 

From tips on storing breast milk and questions about melatonin, to knee pain and disease outbreaks — we've collected 20 of the Michigan Health blog's most read articles from 2019, counting down to No. 1. Together they showcase the breadth and depth of expertise across Michigan Medicine.

And although we'll leave behind many things in 2019, you won't want these professional health tips and interesting reads to be one of them!

20. Ringing in the Ears: Where is That Sound Coming From?

In March, we took a deep dive into progress that's being made against tinnitus, or ringing in the ears.

19. 4 Ways to Stay Safe During the Big Winter Storm

As the temperatures dropped and snow hit, an emergency medicine physician offered tips of ways to stay safe during the cold weather months.

18. Doctor Finds Grill Brush Bristle Lodged in Woman's Throat for Months

How U-M doctors discovered and removed a painful wire grill brush bristle that got stuck in a patient's throat last summer.

17. Six Babies In Four Years: Mother Celebrates Life With Three Sets Of Twins

Three days after one of her deliveries, one mother ended up becoming septic. In this story, Kristie recounts how U-M physicians quickly stepped in to save her life.

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16. Firework Blasts Child in the Face, Mother Urges Caution

Fourth of July brought inevitable firecrackers and sparklers, along with a cautionary tale from one mother whose daughter lost her vision from a fireworks accident.

15. Why High Blood Pressure and Cold Meds Don't Mix

A list of ways those with high blood pressure can safely treat a cold or allergies without medication.

14. Doctors Are Seeing More Alcoholic Liver Disease in Young Adults

We kicked off 2019 with a sobering story: A new study revealed that cirrhosis mortality was linked to an increase in alcohol consumption in people 25 to 34 years old.

13. Are You Properly Storing Your Breast Milk and Formula?

How long can breast milk sit in the fridge? How do you safely thaw and prepare breast milk after it's been frozen? A U-M lactation consultant provided her recommendations in August during breastfeeding awareness month

12. Which Blood Thinner is Right for You?

A U-M cardiologist discussed blood thinners, breaking down all the positives and negatives of the different options available.

11. 7 Healthy Habits to Help Prevent Macular Degeneration

A retina specialist offered strategies to help slow, or possibly prevent, severe age-related macular degeneration.

10. Knees Hurt? Options for Cartilage-Related Knee Pain

A U-M orthopaedic surgeon, specializing in knee cartilage treatment and research, provided an overview about cartilage-related knee pain and how to address it.

9. What is cryptosporidium? The pool parasite outbreak causing panic

With cryptosporidiosis outbreaks on the rise in July, two U-M experts weighed in on how to help prevent the spread of the parasite.

8. Are Melatonin Supplements Safe?

A U-M sleep expert says that while these supplements are generally safe and can be helpful, they aren't magic.

7. What's the Difference Between Norovirus and Flu?

As the colder months bring on more sicknesses, we shared this article to help you decipher between two common viruses.

6. The Best Diets for Cancer Patients and Cancer Survivors

With a review of five of the most popular diets, a U-M cancer researcher discussed the nutrients known to help reduce a person's risk of cancer or prevent a recurrence.

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5. Recovering from Open-Heart Surgery: 6 Things to Expect

No two patient experiences will be the same, but here's what you should be aware of when you or a loved one are recovering from this type of operation.

4. Intermittent Fasting: Is It Right For You?

Is it healthy? What are the benefits? Before diving in, read this nutritionist's Q&A to get all the answers your need.

3. Anatomy of a Human Heart

During February's National Heart Month, readers learned about the organ's amazing powers and the functions of its many parts.

2. What's Causing the Latest Measles Outbreak?

The outbreak of this disease in 2019, which was once considered "eliminated," resurfaced. U-M experts explained how to stay protected.

1. Keto Diets and Heart Health: What's the Risk?

Also during February's National Heart Month, a U-M dietician explained the ins and outs of the popular low-carb regimen and what to know before you get started.