cover image Staying Alive: The Signs That You Have to See a Doctor Right Now (and the Ways to Avoid Having to See One Again)

Staying Alive: The Signs That You Have to See a Doctor Right Now (and the Ways to Avoid Having to See One Again)

Matthew Hahn. Skyhorse, $17.99 trade paper (280p) ISBN 978-1-5107-1395-6

Hahn, named a Maryland Family Doctor of the Year, draws on his experiences in this essential guide. He emphasizes that we can increase our odds of being healthy through proper diet and exercise, not smoking, and avoiding excessive alcohol intake, as well as taking advantage of modern medicine’s truly impressive range of preventive procedures. Hahn observes that too many people wait too long to address pressing issues, fail altogether to receive treatment, or just don’t eat well or exercise enough. With this guide, Hahn addresses the three prongs of this problem. Part one meticulously details 62 medical complaints that should never be ignored, including general concerns (allergies, fever) and gives a “threat level” for each complaint. Part two covers advances and advantages in modern preventive medicine (immunizations, medications, etc.), and part three is a workbook that promotes healthy eating and exercise habits. The final “Be Healthy! Workshop” section is replete with charts and fill-in pages. This is an informative and potentially life-saving text that will appeal to any readers concerned about their health. 15 color photos. (Jan.)