Patients facing even the simplest medical procedure worry about the outcome.
The Community Comment board has no comments about this story. University of Florida researchers say short-term pain and stress may account for cold and flu symptoms reported by some root canal patients up to four weeks after the procedure. While the study doesn't link the treatment itself to any health problems, results show, the anxiety patients feel about it may adversely affect their immune systems. The results do not question the medical value of root canal therapy. But the study does offer insight into ways patients can better prepare for treatment through relaxation, diet and exercise.