Nonprescription medication for hives

ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- This week I've been in surgery three times. Two of my patients were brought in as a result of accidents on the road: one in a car, the other on a motorcycle.

It made me think about how important it is for all of us to be extra careful on the road, especially as we approach the high-travel summer season. I can't express strongly enough how critical it is to wear a seat belt, and a helmet when riding any kind of bike or motorcycle.

We can reduce our risks by taking responsibility for our own health. This includes carefully considering any medications or supplements we might take, evaluating and modifying our diets for optimum health, getting regular checkups and keeping an open dialogue with our doctors.

Here are some health stories I thought you would find interesting:

FDA panel backs nonprescription Claritin for hives

A group of doctors and scientists who advise the Food and Drug Administration recommended this week that Claritin be approved as an over-the-counter treatment for chronic hives.

The decision now rests with the FDA.

Several prescription allergy drugs could also be approved for over-the-counter sale by the end of the year.

Click here to find out how the drug reclassification could affect consumers.

Dairy consumption and insulin resistance syndrome

A new study claims milk and other dairy products can actually delay your chance of getting diabetes as an adult.

Adult diabetes is growing at an alarming pace. Approximately one out of four adults has "insulin resistance syndrome" -- or IRS -- where the body starts to lose its ability to control blood sugar.

Experts warn the results of the study are not a prescription for high-fat butters and cheeses, and caution those who eat dairy to choose low-fat versions.

CNN's Elizabeth Cohen explains how dairy products might lower the risk of getting IRS.

New Pap test guidelines could mean less fear and anxiety

Every year, millions of women are told they have an abnormal -- but inconclusive -- Pap test. Typically, they have to undergo more tests or even a biopsy.

Now, a medical group suggests doctors check for cervical cancer with a new test that can detect HPV, the virus that causes the cancer. It can be done with the original Pap sample.

Click here for more information on HPV testing and to find out how the new guidelines might affect diagnosis for cervical cancer.