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Atrial fibrillation – Causes, symptoms, and management tips
Health

Atrial fibrillation – Causes, symptoms, and management tips

The human heart is susceptible to several health complications, including atrial fibrillation (AFib). The condition is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia, which is a term describing when the heart beats unusually slowly, fast, or irregularly. AFib is estimated to affect between 2.7 million to 6.1 million individuals in the country. An individual with the complication experiences irregular beating in the heart’s upper chambers, affecting blood flow, leading to health complications. Causes Irregularities in the structure of the heart are the most common cause of atrial fibrillation. Sometimes people may develop the condition without any known heart damage or problems. Risk factors like age may also contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation. Other potential causes of the phenomenon include a heart attack, sick sinus syndrome – issues with the heart’s natural pacemaker, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defect – A heart defect that an individual might be born with, high blood pressure, lung diseases, heart valve problems, use of stimulants, including certain prescriptions and caffeine, physical stress caused due to pneumonia, other illnesses, and also surgery, sleep apnea, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), metabolic imbalances, viral infections, and complications due to earlier heart surgery. Symptoms A person who develops atrial fibrillation may not notice symptoms, and the condition is detected only after a physical examination.

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Top 10 ways to manage anxiety
Health

Top 10 ways to manage anxiety

Anxiety has become very common in today’s age. Almost everyone feels anxious from time to time. It is a normal response when faced with testing times or a significant life change. But, if you are often anxious without any reason, it might be a cause for concern. Chronic anxiety can affect relationships, work performance, and a person’s general nature. Some common anxiety disorders include panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder. What are the symptoms of anxiety disorder? The most common signs include irritability, restlessness, uncontrolled worry, unusual fatigue, muscle tension, and frequent sleep issues. Those who experience these symptoms frequently should visit a professional. Health experts recommend a combination of treatments and cognitive therapy sessions depending on the severity. How to manage anxiety? Besides visiting a professional for expert guidance, here are a few things you can do at a personal level to feel relaxed: Try deep breathing When anxious, stop for a moment and engage in deep breathing; sit up straight, take a long breath through your nose, and exhale slowly. This can help relax the muscles of your nose, shoulders, jaw, and abdominal area. It can also slow down the heart rate and lower blood pressure. Get enough sleep Sleep is incredibly essential for anyone to stay healthy and happy. Doctors say that a person should get around eight hours of sleep daily. If anxiety makes it hard for you to fall asleep, leave your screen behind when lying on your bed, follow a strict schedule, and ensure your sleep environment is comfortable. You may also maintain an optimum temperature in the bedroom to induce peaceful sleep. Avoid stressful conversations Try to ignore troublesome situations before bedtime. Do not address any difficulties. Just focus on relaxing so that your mind cools down. Indulging in meaningless conversations when overwhelmed, worked up, or tired can increase stress and deprive you of peace of mind.
Kidney disease management – Things to keep in mind
Health

Kidney disease management – Things to keep in mind

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs that perform various critical functions inside the human body. They help filter blood, eradicate waste through urine, maintain fluid balance, balance minerals, and produce hormones. However, certain conditions may affect kidneys’ functioning, leading to more severe health risks. Certain risk factors are associated with kidney disorders, the prominent ones being high blood pressure and diabetes. Some common symptoms, causes, and management of kidney disease are detailed below. Common symptoms More than one in seven adults, or nearly 37 million people in the country, suffers from chronic kidney disease (CKD) – a type of kidney disorder. Initially, it is challenging to find out the symptoms. Some early indicators and symptoms of kidney disease are fatigue, sleeping troubles, dry and itchy skin, breathlessness, muscle cramps, vomiting and nausea, changes in urination patterns, loss of appetite, and swelling in the ankles and feet. As kidney disease progresses and leads to kidney failure, the symptoms that develop include rashes, fever, nosebleeds, severe abdominal and back pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Causes Multiple causes are associated with kidney disease, including high blood pressure, diabetes, vasculitis, cardiovascular diseases, genetics, age, and autoimmune diseases. High blood pressure High blood pressure is a prominent cause of kidney disease as it damages the blood vessels and reduces blood supply to the kidneys. Experts state that individuals with high blood pressure should be examined regularly for kidney disease. Diabetes Diabetes is another cause of kidney disease. Many internal organs may suffer damage due to high blood sugar levels, and the kidney is more susceptible to that. Strep infection If a strep infection is not properly managed and treated, it may lead to kidney inflammation and, in turn, failure of its functioning. Vasculitis The blood vessels get inflamed with this condition, and the kidneys are more prone to this inflammation or changes in the vascular system.
Dental implant aftercare – Best and worst foods
Health

Dental implant aftercare – Best and worst foods

Dental implant surgery is an important procedure, so although one might be eager to resume normal eating habits, one might have to follow strict food plans during the recovery period. Further, for a quicker recovery, certain food items should be avoided, and only ones that are considered safe can be included in meals after the surgery. The restrictive regimen is usually recommended for the recovery period, as it can help ensure the procedure is successful. Best foods Here is what one can have after getting dental implants: Liquids and soups If feasible, one should consider limiting their nutritional intake to all-liquid meals during the first couple of days following dental implant surgery. This includes smooth soups (nothing too chunky), homemade broths and bouillon, meal-replacement beverages, protein beverages, fruit smoothies, and other juices. Consider choosing healthy beverages with a high calcium content for healthier teeth. Additionally, while making fruit smoothies, one should add citrus fruits, like oranges and grapefruits, in moderation. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient for gum health, but they are also extremely acidic, which can erode tooth enamel. Additionally. soup is an incredibly nutritious food choice. It is advised to have warm soup rather than heated. Soup does not require chewing, and it can also be a rich source of protein if made using bone broth. Cereal Cooked cereals are fantastic ways to get nutritious, easy-to-chew sustenance. Further, one can opt for the Cream of Wheat breakfast mix, served with a touch of butter and cinnamon on top, grits with melted soft cheese, or oats with finely mashed blueberries on top. Muffins After surgery, muffins can be a little challenging for the first day or two, but for the most part, most people can have muffins with ease. They are a fantastic breakfast or snack after dental implant surgery because they are delectable, require little chewing, and can be filling.
Meal plans to help manage atrial fibrillation
Health

Meal plans to help manage atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) occurs when the upper chambers of your heart beat out of sync with the lower chambers. Its symptoms include dizziness, breathing problems, fatigue, and palpitations. One of the most prevalent arrhythmias is Afib, and coronary heart disease, excess weight, and high blood pressure are some risk factors for the condition. When untreated, it can lead to a stroke. However, Afib can be managed via certain food choices. Fruits and vegetables You’ve certainly been told to eat your fruits and vegetables before, but those with Afib and other types of heart disease should remember this advice in particular. Numerous fruits and vegetables are rich in magnesium, which lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as vitamins C, K, and A, which can help prevent the accumulation of arterial plaque. Additionally, eating a lot of these low-fat, low-sodium, and low-calorie items can aid in weight management. Fruits rich in antioxidants and vitamins include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and cranberries. Compared to most canned, dried, and fruit juices, fresh fruits have greater nutrients and less sugar. Look for frozen fruits if fresh fruits are out of season, too expensive, or too complicated to prepare. They are a terrific smoothie ingredient and might be a cheaper, healthier alternative. Lean protein To limit your intake of saturated fat, choose lean meats over fatty kinds, and eat less meat overall. Consuming fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, sardines, herring, tuna, and mackerel, is one approach to this. Some people opt to completely avoid meat in favor of legumes such as beans and lentils as a source of protein. Try nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts for heart-healthy plant-based snacks that are high in protein. Dairy is a significant source of protein. When looking for dairy products, pick low-salt, low-fat options such as yogurt or cottage cheese.

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Top 6 senior-friendly liquid detergents
Home and Garden

Top 6 senior-friendly liquid detergents

As one ages, the choice of products also changes. This is especially true for products that come into contact with your skin, and one such product is laundry detergent. Older people need laundry detergents that are gentler on their skin. But, with so many products in the market, each with its own USPs, how do you find the best senior-friendly liquid detergents for daily use? This article lists six of the best liquid detergents that make your life easy. Why do seniors need special detergents? Most products are treated with harmful chemicals during the manufacturing process. While these chemicals are harmful to everyone, they are especially toxic for seniors. Here are some reasons why seniors should pay attention to the laundry detergents that they use: Due to age, the outer layer of the skin thins out. Because of this, the chemicals are absorbed more quickly and can enter the bloodstream. The older you get, the slower these harmful chemicals are expelled from your body. This may lead to several problems, such as heart conditions, nervous system disorders, and problems with the liver and kidneys in the long run. Best liquid detergents for seniors Laundry detergents are a staple in everyone’s daily lives. However, because of the above-mentioned reasons, older adults need to minimize their exposure to chemicals. The best way to do this is to switch to senior-friendly detergents. Here’s a list of some of the best options in the market: Gain Laundry Detergent One of the reasons why it makes it to the top of the list is that it is a high-performing detergent that has excellent stain removal properties, perfect for removing stains. It is zero mess while dispensing, making the process easy and doable. Another advantage of Gain detergent is that it is a mid-range product that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Signs, diagnosis, and prevention of nasal polyps
Health

Signs, diagnosis, and prevention of nasal polyps

If you have been facing difficulty while breathing or feel that your sense of smell or taste has decreased, chances are that you may have nasal polyps. Though it is a common health condition, knowing more about it is necessary, not just because it causes discomfort; one-sided nasal polyps growth may indicate a cancerous tumor. Read further to learn more about nasal polyps, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and lines of treatment. Nasal polyps They are soft, benign, and painless growths on the lining of sinuses or nasal passages. They are sac-like in appearance and vary in size and shape. Sinuses are located inside the facial bones and are air-filled spaces. They are connected to your nasal cavity and help you breathe. Nasal polyps, especially when they grow in size, act as obstructions, cause trouble breathing, and usually affect both sides of your nasal passages. According to the research, 4% of people worldwide suffer from this condition . Causes Although the exact cause of nasal polyps is unknown until now, it is attributed to long-term or recurrent inflammation of the mucus membranes of the sinuses or the nasal passages. It is often caused due to conditions such as asthma, long-term sinus infections, cystic fibrosis, sensitivity to aspirin, allergic fungal sinusitis (caused due to fungi in the air), vitamin D deficiency, abnormal inflammation of the blood vessels caused due to Churg-Strauss Syndrome, or a family history of nasal polyps. Age is also a contributing factor. People over 40 are more likely to be affected by this condition. Symptoms When they start to form, nasal polyps may not present any apparent signs and symptoms. Signs begin to show when they increase in size or occur at multiple points in your nasal passages. Still, the signs and symptoms of this condition may vary from person to person.
Decoding the top 10 myths of AMD
Health

Decoding the top 10 myths of AMD

Old age can lead to the development of various kinds of diseases, and age-related macular degeneration is one among them. This eye disease can occur in people above 50 years, leading to vision issues, especially the ability to look straight. There are multiple misconceptions associated with the problem that it causes complete blindness; however, the fact is only central vision is lost. Let’s have a look at the other myths associated with the condition. Macular degeneration is not very common Age-related macular degeneration is not a disease that is very rare and affects only a percentage of people. The disease is the most common reason that leads to loss of vision and is known to affect even people who are as young as 20 years old. There are specifically two types of AMD which are dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration causes the cells present in the macula, the central part of the retina, to die, leading to blurry central vision. In the case of wet macular degeneration, the fluid present in the blood vessel exudes into the macula and leads to blind spots. The majority of cases are those of dry AMD, while wet AMD is taken as a more advanced form of the disease since it leads to swift and chronic damage to vision. Macular degeneration symptoms are perceived prematurely Age-related macular degeneration is not known in its early stages as there are no particular symptoms present, and there is no loss of vision. It is, therefore, important to get regular eye checkups done by an ophthalmologist. The vision of the eye which is getting affected might be reduced, but the eye which is fine will get to see things normally. The most noticeable symptom in the case of a dry AMD is the blurring of vision. Advanced symptoms of the disease comprise problems in recognizing faces, reading, and more.
Simple tips for managing ulcerative colitis
Health

Simple tips for managing ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is an unpredictable and highly inflammatory bowel disease. People with this condition frequently experience ulcers in their colon, a part of the large intestine. Additionally, diarrhea, bloody stools, abdominal cramps, and constipation are common indicators of this disorder. Such symptoms may worsen once in a while, known as flare-ups, while on other occasions, one may experience none. Here are some simple and effective ways to manage ulcerative colitis symptoms: Reducing fiber intake Surprisingly, fiber-rich foods can trigger ulcerative colitis flare-ups in people with the condition. Fiber is a good option for people looking to improve their bowel health and regularity. However, too much fiber has been found to aggravate ulcerative colitis flare-ups. To offset this, patients can consume low-fiber foods such as butter, tofu, eggs, fish, refined carbohydrates (white bread, white rice, white pasta), fish, juice with no pulp, and a few cooked fruits with no seeds or skin. Exercising regularly Following a regular exercise routine is always advisable due to the range of health benefits it brings into a person’s life. Daily workouts also help reduce the symptoms and complications associated with ulcerative colitis. When a person living with this disorder exercises regularly, they can counter some of the more extreme symptoms, such as a weakened immune system, decreased bone density, stress and pain, and the emotional turmoil that all these bring. To counter these symptoms, one can participate in swimming, biking, jogging, and other exercises at least four days a week. Even working out with moderate intensity helps release protective proteins such as irisin from frequently-functional skeletal muscles. This reduces the severity of inflammatory bowel disease and ulcerative colitis. Avoiding stress-inducing situations Stress can worsen the signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Stress and anxiety often trigger flare-ups in patients. Cortisol, the infamous stress hormone of the human body, triggers the inflammations that characterize ulcerative colitis.
Atopic dermatitis – Symptoms and management tips
Health

Atopic dermatitis – Symptoms and management tips

Atopic dermatitis (or eczema) is a skin disease that can cause constant itching or redness. An estimated 31.6 million people in the country are said to be living with some form of eczema. Multiple factors play a role in the development of atopic dermatitis. Although not contagious, it is a chronic condition, so one can experience multiple flare-ups during their lifetime. The condition is common among children, but it can also affect adults. Symptoms The skin disease may develop anywhere on the body, and its signs can differ from one person to the next. The condition often surfaces before age 5, and its symptoms can last well into one’s teen and adult years. Some individuals may even experience flare-ups that clear up for a few days, months, or years. The most common symptoms of eczema are Pruritus or itchiness Rashes or swollen skin, which can differ in appearance based on the color of the skin Dry or cracked skin Thickened skin Crusted, scaly patches Oozing skin discharge Raw, sensitive skin due to scratching Tiny bumps Darkening of the skin around the eyes Causes and triggers The exact cause of atopic dermatitis is yet to be determined. But the skin disease could result from genetic mutations that affect the skin’s ability to protect itself. A weak barrier results in the skin being unable to hold on to moisture. Further, the phenomenon also exposes the skin to invaders like allergens and irritants. Some people may develop atopic dermatitis by being infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Weak skin barriers are also susceptible to immune system responses that result in inflamed skin or other eczema symptoms. Sometimes one may not experience symptoms for years but develop a rash or itchy skin out of the blue. This can be caused by exposure to certain triggers of atopic dermatitis, which may also worsen pre-existing symptoms.
Fighting Wrinkly Skin – Causes, Remedies, and Food Options
Beauty

Fighting Wrinkly Skin – Causes, Remedies, and Food Options

Aging is a natural process characterized by several physical and mental changes. Wrinkles and fine lines are among the first and most common physical signs reflecting one’s transition to old age. With time, these typically become more pronounced, affecting the skin’s texture. On the bright side, wrinkles are easily reversible with consistent healthcare, natural remedies, and a few lifestyle changes. This article provides an in-depth insight into wrinkles, their causes, natural remedies, and food options. How can you identify wrinkles? Wrinkles are creases or ridges appearing on the skin’s surface, typically due to aging. With age, the skin tends to lose its elasticity, progressively thinner and drier, resulting in fine lines or wrinkles. Although wrinkles are often associated with the face, they may also appear in other areas, such as the arms and neck. However, the first wrinkles typically appear on muscles regulating facial expressions, such as the corners of the eyes and mouth. Causes of wrinkles Aging Wrinkles are synonymous with aging and result from loss of skin flexibility. With time, the skin eventually dries up, and the lack of moisture can cause issues like crow’s feet around the eyes and fine lines around the mouth. Exposure to UV rays UV rays contribute to the development of free radicals in the skin, destroying its elastin fibers and leading to the development of wrinkles. Individuals with lighter skin are more susceptible to wrinkles, as they are less protected from UV rays compared to those with darker skin. Certain facial expressions Fine lines may also form around the forehead, corners of the eyes and mouth, and other areas on the face due to certain facial expressions like frowning and squinting. These facial expressions form deep creases, eventually leading to the formation of wrinkles. Environmental pollutants Exposure to environmental agents like dust particles, soot, and nitrogen oxide can cause skin degradation, contributing to skin aging and wrinkle formation.

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Dental implants – Types, benefits, and cost

Dental implants – Types, benefits, and cost

Getting a dental implant might be a good option if you have tooth problems or need to replace missing or unhealthy teeth. Implants have been gaining recognition since the 1970s, and around six percent of our country’s population has them. They help improve a person’s quality of life and can be a valuable investment in the long term. This post details the critical aspects of dental implants you must know before opting for the procedure. What are dental implants? Dental implants are tiny devices surgically implanted into the jaw that helps restore the capability to chew in people with missing teeth. They look like natural teeth, making it hard to tell the difference. Typically, an implant consists of three parts: an abutment, the dental implant body, and the abutment screw. The implant body is inserted into the jawbone in place of the tooth’s root. Then, the abutment is connected to the body with the help of the dental abutment screw. The abutment supports the attached artificial teeth by extending through the gums in the mouth. What are the types of dental implants? Implants can be of different types, so individuals must consider their dental problems when choosing a particular option.
Top 9 laundry detergent options for daily needs

Top 9 laundry detergent options for daily needs

Undertaking laundry tasks regularly can be tiresome task without good laundry detergents. It is because detergents help eliminate stains and dirt from clothes and make them odor-free. Furthermore, these cleaning agents are designed in multiple varieties to cater to different fabrics and stains. Besides promoting a brighter appearance, detergents also ensure that your clothes are free of harmful components. Here is a list of detergents that can help make laundry work effortless. Persil ProClean Liquid Persil Pro Clean liquid is a laundry detergent that can help keep the odor from clothes at bay. The detergent comes designed with odor-eliminating technology that guarantees a fresh smell to your clothes. It also provides deep cleaning across all forms of washers and proves perfect for people looking to have a single product to solve all their laundry needs. Tide Original Among the top laundry detergents, Tide is a brand that has gained a reputation for offering deep cleaning at a low price. The detergent is also recognized for offering fresh fragrance and better stain removal, leading to the whitening and brightening of clothes. This detergent also comes available in pods and other varieties to cater to different requirements and promises value for money.
Breast cancer causes, types, and prevention tips

Breast cancer causes, types, and prevention tips

Breast cancer begins in the cells of the breasts, and it is the second most common type of cancer affecting women, the first being skin cancer. While the condition can affect both men and women, it is more prevalent in the latter. There are several types of breast cancer, and each case develops differently. Early detection and proper treatments can highly increase the chances of survival. Let’s look at this condition in detail. Causes and symptoms When the breast cells begin to grow abnormally in the tissue, it leads to forming a lump or a mass. This can spread through the breast to other lymph nodes and the rest of the body. Some of the symptoms to look out for are: A breast lump or mass surrounding the tissue that feels abnormal. Change in the size and appearance of the breast. Change in the skin texture on the breast. Pitting of the skin over the breast or a constant redness. Any peeling, flaking, scaling or crusting of the skin around the pigmented area of the skin that surrounds the nipple region. A noticeable inverted nipple Types of breast cancer There are several types of breast cancer, and treatment for these types differs according to the diagnosis by the health professional.