7 early warning signs of arthritis
Health

7 early warning signs of arthritis

Arthritis is characterized by the tenderness and swelling of one or more joints in the body. Some of the most common types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The condition results in multiple symptoms, most of which usually get diagnosed due to other health complications and age. But the symptoms may affect one’s quality of life. So it is imperative to identify the signs early and initiate a treatment plan for managing the condition. Pain in a joint Pain in one or more joints may occur due to certain situations, including injuries or joint overuse. Infections like the flu may also trigger acute pain in certain joint areas. In such situations, acute joint pain comes on quickly and fades away. However, if one develops a symptom out of the ordinary and the pain does not reduce over a period of time, one must get it checked by an expert at the earliest. Pain or aching in a joint that becomes worse over time is a potential sign of arthritis. The pain may be triggered by even mild activity, surface after activity, or following a long day at work. Furthermore, joint pain may also result in tenderness, a painful sensation even if mild pressure is applied to the affected area.
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How does excess sugar consumption affect sleep
Health

How does excess sugar consumption affect sleep

Sugar forms a major part of daily sustenance as the condiment is widely used to prepare foods and beverages. However, sugar adds no nutritional value and is simply consumed because it enhances the taste of commonly consumed foods and beverages. Excess sugar consumption is one of the main reasons many people suffer from health complications that affect the body’s natural function. And here is how sugar can even trigger sleep disturbances affecting the natural circadian rhythm. Restlessness Sugar is empty calories, so no good comes from adding sugar to daily foods or beverages. Instead, more sugar in the bloodstream increases the risk of an imbalance that affects the body’s natural metabolism and functions. The sleep and wake-up cycle are regulated by hormones, mainly melatonin, produced naturally by the body. Changes in the body’s metabolic activities and functions affect melatonin production, thus disrupting the natural sleep cycle. As a result, one finds it difficult to go to sleep or stay in a rested rhythm for longer periods of time. The quality and duration of sleep directly impact the progression of known sleep disorders as well. Increases cravings Since sugar adds no nutritional value, the body craves more foods that can fill the void to support necessary functions.
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8 foods to avoid when dealing with prostate cancer
Health

8 foods to avoid when dealing with prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is curable, but certain lifestyle changes can aid the treatment process. So, it helps to make better food choices when dealing with the disease. This is especially important if one is undergoing procedures such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy that use powerful chemical agents to destroy cancer cells. These prostate cancer treatments often lead to side effects like nausea, heartburn, and headache, which can worsen with the intake of the following foods:  Processed meat Processed meats such as hot dogs, sausages, beef jerky, pepperoni, and bacon contain high levels of sodium and saturated fats. Similarly, deli meats such as roast beef and turkey are also rich in sodium and unhealthy fats, which can lead to heartburn, indigestion, and elevated blood sugar. The high sodium and saturated fat content can disrupt the recovery process for those dealing with prostate cancer. One should opt for lean sources of protein like fatty fish, poultry, and plant-based alternatives (tofu or beans). Red meat Adding protein to meals is crucial when undergoing treatments for prostate cancer, as the nutrient can improve muscle strength and manage fatigue. While meat can be a rich source of protein, one should avoid excessive intake of red meat like pork, lamb, and beef.
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7 regular use household products harmful to lung health
Health

7 regular use household products harmful to lung health

Many adults in the country experience one or more types of lung and respiratory disorders, often due to the presence of carcinogens in the atmosphere. In some cases, symptoms may even appear during early childhood. These harmful particulate matters can impact breathing and other respiratory functions. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the risks posed by common cleaning and hygiene products used in their households. Here are seven such products that can potentially cause lung problems: Air fresheners Aerosol sprays containing fragrances are commonly used around the house, especially inside the washroom. And depending on the size of the family, one might be using these products repeatedly. So, the exposure rate for air fresheners is high, and someone with existing lung problems will suffer from respiratory issues after coming in contact with such products. That’s mainly because fragrances contain scents added to compressed gases inside the can. Many of these scents are ethyl based and are quite toxic. Even the slightest exposure can worsen symptoms of respiratory and lung disorders, triggering a flareup. Oven cleaners Baking and grilling ovens collect a lot of the soot and fumes released while cooking. Oven cleaners effectively disintegrate the debris that collects inside the oven.
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7 effective tips for protecting the eyes while traveling
Health

7 effective tips for protecting the eyes while traveling

Traveling often or traveling long distances comes with its own challenges. Be it air, train, or road journeys, stress, and discomfort can trigger certain issues. While most people don’t intentionally neglect or avoid taking care, it’s possible to overlook a few simple practices and hygiene habits that could have ensured the body felt better rested. Thus, here are a few essential tips for protecting your eyes outdoors as well as indoors during your next trip. Apply a warm compress Long-distance travel can be quite stressful for the eyes. So, applying a warm compress over the eyelids upon arrival at the destination helps soothe sore muscles and improves fluid movement near the tear ducts. Apply the compress for a good 10 to 15 minutes and let the heat gently overcome the strain. This technique will help protect your eyes from developing an infection due to changes in temperature, climate, and even surroundings at a foreign location. It’s also better to wash your eyes with cold water gently to remove any dirt and debris that accumulates during the journey. Give importance to hydration Your eyes are self-cleansing and primarily rely on bodily fluids to prepare the lubricant that allows the eyeball to move freely.
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Home remedies to manage frequent urination
Health

Home remedies to manage frequent urination

Urinating four to eight times a day is considered normal. However, some people visit the bathroom more frequently. They also experience severe urges and cannot hold urine in their bladder till it is convenient to go to the toilet. It could happen for several reasons, such as drinking too much water or being diagnosed with a health issue. Let us look at a few helpful home remedies for frequent urination. Pumpkin seeds Studies suggest that pumpkin seed oil extract may help control the urge to visit the bathroom, especially at night. The compounds found in the oil help improve the bladder’s muscle function, reducing the frequency of urination. These compounds also help improve prostate health, preventing urinary disorders. Magnesium hydroxide Magnesium hydroxide supplements are easily available in the market and are known to help with an overactive bladder. A study conducted with women found that over 50 percent of participants noticed improved symptoms after using this remedy. Research also suggests it can help reduce spontaneous muscle contractions in the body, which are known to trigger frequent urination. However, magnesium hydroxide may have side effects like vomiting, cramping, and diarrhea, so one should adjust their dosage after consulting an expert. Gosha-jinki-gan This is a supplement made using a mixture of ten different herbs.
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Consequences of ignoring arthritis-induced joint pain
Health

Consequences of ignoring arthritis-induced joint pain

Rather than a single condition, arthritis is a group of disorders that develop in vital bone and muscle joints affecting mobility and range of motion. Over a hundred different types of arthritis can develop in various regions of the body. However, most arthritis symptoms overlap with those of known progressive conditions, making it difficult to determine the exact source of such discomfort. However, one must avoid overlooking joint pain, a key symptom of arthritis. Here are the ways in which ignoring joint pain can worsen arthritis: Localized knee pain Knee pain is the most common type of discomfort reported by those with arthritis. So, it’s possible for many with the condition to ignore this symptom, thinking it is just a symptom flare-up. However, persistent knee pain, when a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, could indicate an internal injury. Weak muscles and bones can trigger hairline fractures that do not necessarily exhibit any symptoms other than persistent pain. However, leaving such fractures and injuries unattended can result in permanent damage to the limbs. Severe injuries may even require surgical intervention to repair the muscle tissue and provide structural damage to bone joints. So, one should not ignore any type of knee pain that persists over a few days.
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10 habits that may worsen arthritis
Health

10 habits that may worsen arthritis

The term arthritis is used to describe joint inflammation. The main symptoms of this condition are pain and stiffness, which may worsen with age. Of the nine different types of arthritis, two occur most frequently: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions can impact every part of one’s life. A healthy lifestyle can help manage the symptoms of arthritis better. Here are ten everyday habits that may worsen arthritis; here’s how to avoid them: Being sedentary:  Being sedentary for extended periods can increase the pressure on the knees, causing pain and stiffness. It can also cause muscle tightness in the hips and legs and weaken the core-stabilizing muscles. These factors may worsen arthritis.To strengthen the joints, engage in 30 minutes of joint-friendly activities such as walking, water aerobics, or swimming five times a week. Instead of sitting for long hours, try to get up and walk around every 30 minutes, or try some light stretching. Over-exercising: While exercise is effective for managing arthritis, engaging in too much high-impact exercise can cause joint wear and worsen symptoms of arthritis. Find a healthy balance of aerobic exercise and strength training in moderate amounts to manage arthritis. Carrying heavy loads: Lifting heavy weights can also weaken the joints.
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