In this issue: Easy cold prevention tips, Alzheimer's genes, causes of low blood sodium and more

HOUSECALL Mayo Clinic is ranked #1 in the nation. Vol. 18, Issue 90 | November 9, 2017   THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES     Alzheimer's genes: Are you at risk? Researchers have found several genes that increase the risk for Alzheimer's disease, but that's just part of the story.     Common cold   It's that time of year when everyone seems to be coming down with a cold. Find out how to avoid getting sick and see which remedies really work.           EXPERT ANSWERS   Low blood sodium in older adults: A concern? Discover why older adults tend to have low levels of sodium in their blood and which treatments may help. Genital herpes: Can you get it from a toilet seat? Learn whether you can catch this sexually transmitted infection by using the bathroom. Stress management for multiple sclerosis If you have multiple sclerosis, stress is an inevitable part of your life. Take these steps to help tame tension.   PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS ... Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Slide show: Aquatic exercises Pacemaker Video: How diabetes affects your blood sugar     TRUSTED HEALTH TOOLS   Use our Symptom Checker to explore possible causes of your symptoms based upon Mayo Clinic's patient care experience.   Use these simple calculators and self-assessments for personalized health tips.   Mayo Clinic healthy weight pyramid BMI calculator     MAYO CLINIC PRODUCTS & SERVICES   Take charge of diabetes and your future Find the latest guidelines on diagnosis and testing, as well as valuable self-care tips with The Essential Diabetes Book from Mayo Clinic. Use this medical knowledge to enjoy a healthy future. Learn more.     HEALTHY RECIPES   Artichoke dip Halibut with tomato basil salsa Broccoli with garlic and lemon   HEALTH TIP   Time your lotions right Apply moisturizers immediately after bathing. After washing or bathing, gently pat or blot your skin dry with a towel so that some moisture remains on the skin. Immediately moisturize your skin with an oil or a cream to help trap water in the surface cells.   Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover even more healthy lifestyle topics at MayoClinic.org.   Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy    |    Opportunities     Did you know? Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution dedicated to patient care, education and medical research. Proceeds from advertising and the sale of Mayo Clinic books and newsletters support Mayo Clinic's mission. Share our passion for science and health. Please consider a gift to Mayo Clinic. Click here to donate.     Connect with Mayo Clinic For more of our reliable health information and tools, visit us at MayoClinic.org. Or add us to your social network!   Like us on Facebook Follow on Twitter Discover your Network   Watch on YouTube Patient Stories View More Newsletters     © 2017 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905. All rights reserved.