Tom Scheve has written nearly 200 articles for HowStuffWorks, ranging from mysterious pains to how to make meth. He also writes for equestrian publications.
Recent Contributions
Sometimes a bad day calls for a cocktail -- or at the very least, a cookie or two. When you reach for that comfort, you're actually altering your brain chemistry. But there's a better way to do it: Lace up your running shoes.
By Tom Scheve
Bones give our body structure and enable us to stand, walk and move. So what else is your skeletal responsible for and exactly how many bones are in the human body anyway?
By Tom Scheve
Some pains should never be ignored because they could put our health — or worse — our life at risk. But how do you know which is just a little discomfort and which is a sign of more?
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The authors of chain emails often tell you to smile more, with the added claim that it takes more muscles to frown. Ever questioned this piece of wisdom? We have an answer for you.
By Tom Scheve
While there's a good case to be made that the ideal parenting arrangement includes at least one parent acting as full-time caregiver, for many people this isn't possible -- or ideal. What are the upsides to being a dual-income family?
By Tom Scheve
While the majority of nail salon visits won't send you on your way with anything other than an excellent manicure and pedicure, customers -- and salon workers -- are at risk of spreading disease. We've got five culprits to watch out for.
By Tom Scheve
Babies have adorable smiles and teeny tiny fingers, but there's a persistent rumor that these new, tiny humans don't have kneecaps. What's the story of a baby's bones?
By Tom Scheve
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Sure, nobody likes dry skin. But are all the ads for moisturizer simply an attempt to get us to buy more products by brainwashing us with scary skin propaganda? What would happen if you never reached for the moisturizer?
By Tom Scheve
Deodorant use has been traced back to the ancient Sumerians who also developed the world's first written language. They knew what was important. But when you're looking at today's grocery aisle full of options, what should you reach for?
By Tom Scheve
It displays photos from that magical trip to Paris, next to the lovely postcard your sweetie sent and the takeout menu for that Thai place you've been meaning to try. Since you look at your corkboard every day, why not spruce it up a bit?
By Tom Scheve & Eleanor Duse
For some parents and soon-to-be parents, there are two different parenting styles: good and bad. And while all parents want to be the good kind, it's not that simple. Take a look at your options.
By Tom Scheve
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When it comes to stimulating the human central nervous system, meth can hold its shaky, toothless head high. Why is this drug so additive?
When it comes to making a baby, odds are stacked against any one sperm making it to the finish line: the egg. Assuming both people are healthy, how long do sperm need to complete the race? Could you be pregnant before you get up for a drink of water?
Sure, you know what bipolar disorder is. It’s that condition where you just have dramatic mood swings and you get lots done during the manic episodes … right? Not quite.
By Tom Scheve
Parents, politicians and some researchers have touted the notion that listening to classical music can boost the mind, and maybe even test scores. But not everyone agrees.
By Tom Scheve
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Whether it's an unsightly rash on your rear end or trouble in the bedroom, an embarrassing health problem may be the last thing you want to talk about, but some can be life-threatening. Which are we least likely to bring up with someone who can help?
By Tom Scheve
A person who's depressed may lash out at loved ones, or even strangers, and seem uncharacteristically consumed with rage. Where does that anger come from, and how can you treat it?
By Tom Scheve
Once a cavity starts, it sets off a chain of events that can eventually destroy an entire tooth. What can you do to prevent that result, and does it always have to involve a drill?
By Tom Scheve
Also known as dental porcelain laminates, veneers can go a long way toward improving the appearance of your natural teeth. But how long do they last?
By Tom Scheve
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If you've got an unsightly gap in your smile caused by tooth loss or removal, flipper teeth could help you out. But how long are flippers a viable solution?
By Tom Scheve
Tongue scrapers are said to help remove the bacteria that causes bad breath. But is using one any more effective than just brushing your tongue?
By Tom Scheve
Using a dental scaler can be an effective way to help keep your teeth free of plaque and stains. How can you use one correctly?
By Tom Scheve
Some argue that using a dental pick is more effective than flossing when it comes to cleaning between your teeth. But is it safe to use a dental pick without a dentist's supervision?
By Tom Scheve
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Research shows that when we've had too little sleep, our brain activity makes us overly optimistic, so we make some bad choices.
By Tom Scheve
The statistics are alarming: According to the World Association of Sleep Medicine, about 45 percent of the world's population isn't getting enough sleep.
By Tom Scheve