Dear Doctors: My blood pressure is just a tiny bit high. Does that really matter? My doctor said I should think about taking a blood pressure drug, but I’d rather try to bring it down naturally.
DEAR HARRIETTE: As a parent, I want to provide my child with everything she desires because she is my only one. However, I am concerned about the potential consequences of spoiling her. I understand the importance of instilling values of gratitude, hard work and appreciation for the things she receives, rather than fostering entitlement or a sense of privilege. Striking a balance between giving my child what she wants and teaching her the value of earning and appreciating what she has is crucial.
LINN COUNTY, Iowa – The sap is running in Iowa and New Hampshire.
There's an ancient and accurate political adage: Elections are about addition, not subtraction. That's especially true this year, since the last two presidential contests have been extremely close. The decisions of a few swing voters in a few swing states have decided both outcomes, and that's likely to happen again.
Dear Doctors: I recently read about a study that says eating late makes it easier to gain weight. I would like to know more about that. I’ve been having success with weight loss by not eating after 6 p.m., and I wonder if the timing has anything to do with that.
DEAR HARRIETTE: As my wedding day approaches, I find myself filled with doubt and uncertainty about marrying my long-time boyfriend. Despite our history together, I am overwhelmed by a sense of hesitation and questioning whether proceeding with the marriage is the right decision.
The House Republican Caucus recently elected a new speaker-designate to begin serving during the 60th State Legislature, which will be seated next January.
Dear Doctors: I twisted my knee snowboarding. I thought it was just a sprain, but it turns out I have a partial tear in my ACL. My doctor says I need surgery. If I just wait and am very careful, won't it eventually heal by itself ?
DEAR HARRIETTE: I am a 20-yearold student who recently relocated temporarily to Europe. I have been living here for two months, and I love it. I have recently been feeling guilty because I have done a poor job of keeping in touch with my family. I was raised to be extremely independent, so I don't often rely on my parents or older sisters for help with anything in my life emotionally or financially; therefore, I don't often call — and neither do they because they know I am very busy.
DEAR HARRIETTE: My gaming addiction has led me to spend excessive amounts of time on my game, causing me to neglect my husband and become easily angered with my child. I recognize that my behavior is hurting those I love, and I am desperate to find a way to overcome this addiction and repair the damage it has caused. I feel consumed by the need to play games, and it has become a coping mechanism that only fuels my anger and frustration. I really want to break free from this addiction and rebuild my relationships with my family. —Gaming Addiction DEAR GAMING ADDICTION: What surprises many people is that gaming addicts are not just teenagers. Many adults, like you, find themselves caught in the clutches of gaming. Additionally, the pandemic only made it worse for countless people. The good news is that you can wrestle this demon. Just like any other addiction, though, it takes a huge amount of selfdiscipline. It all starts where you are now, by admitting you have a problem. Sit down with your husband. Tell him that you realize what your addiction is doing to the family, and you want to change. Consider going cold turkey or limiting your hours of engagement. Schedule family time, and show up for whatever you have planned.