In this issue: 7 subtle symptoms, weight-loss pills, flu masks, cooking oils, COPD signs and more.

These 7 symptoms could mean bigger problems. Manage my newsletter.   HOUSECALL Mayo Clinic named America's #1 Best Hospital by U.S. News & World Report Vol. 15, Issue 81 | November 13, 2014   THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES     7 signs and symptoms not to ignore Some subtle symptoms — such as shortness of breath — could be red flags for more serious problems. Take note of these signs.     Over-the-counter weight-loss pills: Do they work?   Many weight-loss pills are readily available at your local drugstore. Do they lighten anything but your wallet?           EXPERT ANSWERS   Flu mask: Should I wear one? Wearing a flu mask and practicing good hand hygiene might help protect you from the flu. When the heat is on, which oil should you use? Olive, canola or grapeseed? Which cooking oil should you use for sauteing and frying?   PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS ... COPD Fitness tips for menopause: Why fitness counts Managing food allergies Tips for coping with a child's chronic disease     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 Calorie calculator     NOW BLOGGING   Nutrition-wise: Do you have a taste for healthy foods? Choosing foods based on your preferences — sweet, savory, spicy, crunchy — can make it easier to eat healthier.     MAYO CLINIC PRODUCTS & SERVICES   Try Mayo Clinic Health Letter today and get a free special report Don't miss this special offer. We'll send you a risk-free issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter, America's favorite health newsletter, developed by Mayo Clinic doctors. As a bonus gift, we'll send you a free special report on arthritis. With this report, discover how you can reduce pain, overcome obstacles and lead an active life. Order now!     HEALTHY RECIPES   Broiled grouper with teriyaki sauce Couscous salad Tangy green beans Grilled pineapple   HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK   Coffee after dinner? Make it decaf That after-dinner cup could be interfering with your sleep. To get a good night's rest, avoid caffeine after lunchtime. While your body doesn't store caffeine, it can take many hours to eliminate the stimulant from your system.   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 is a not-for-profit organization. Proceeds from website advertising help support our mission. Mayo Clinic does not endorse any non-Mayo products and services. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy    |    Opportunities     Give to Mayo Clinic A gift to research at Mayo Clinic is a gift of life. Donate now.     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 Follow on Pinterest   Watch on YouTube Patient Stories View More Newsletters       Thanks for joining our mailing list, wahdaz.5stepquitsmoking@blogger.com, for Mayo Clinic HOUSECALL.   REMOVE me from this list | Add me to this list | Customer service   © 2014 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905. All rights reserved.