The body rest and rejuvenates during the night sleep, but some individuals constantly battle the tides of drowsiness and sleep attacks during waking hours. Such individuals may be suffering from a neurological condition called narcolepsy. This sleep disorder presents unique challenges for those affected. The unexpected sleep attacks can disrupt one’s daily life, including productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. Here are the most common signs, causes, and strategies to support those navigating this condition. What is narcolepsy? Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that disrupts the normal sleep-wake cycle. People with narcolepsy often feel excessively sleepy during the day, struggling to stay awake and alert. These unexpected bouts of sleep can interfere with their normal routine and productivity, making it difficult to concentrate, perform tasks, and engage in social activities. Narcolepsy is a lifelong condition, typically emerging during adolescence or early adulthood. Narcolepsy Signs Unexpected sleep episodes Narcolepsy can trigger sudden and uncontrollable sleep episodes, commonly known as sleep attacks. People with narcolepsy may find themselves falling asleep during conversations, while at work or school, while driving, or even during social gatherings. These sudden sleep attacks can be disruptive and potentially hazardous. Fragmented sleep Apart from this, individuals with narcolepsy may often have difficulty staying asleep at night due to fragmented sleep and insomnia. They may also experience automatic behaviors, where they briefly fall asleep during activities like eating or talking, continuing them without realizing it, or even driving, which can pose a serious risk to one’s life. Sleep paralysis Sleep paralysis is a condition that brings a temporary loss of muscle control. The condition occurs when one’s brain doesn’t transition smoothly between sleep stages, and one may find it impossible to move. This state may last a few seconds to some minutes and usually passes quickly. Muscle weakness (Cataplexy) A distinct symptom of narcolepsy is cataplexy, characterized by sudden muscle weakness or loss of muscle control.

A dry eye is a condition wherein the tear glands in the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the eyes wet and comfortable. It is one of the most common eye conditions and can be extremely uncomfortable, with symptoms like stinging, burning, and red eyes. This article lists 9 home remedies to help manage dry eyes and keep them moist and wet. However, it is always best to consult a doctor before trying these home remedies. Washing lashes Inflammation is another symptom that needs to be managed for dry eyes, and another trick to know is to wash those crusty eyelashes. Keeping the surrounding skin and hair near the eyes clean ensures the inflammation does not worsen. One can use mild and gentle soap to wash the eyes lids and even the base of the eyelashes. Eye massage Gently massaging the areas around the eyes can provide numerous benefits. This simple act can help relieve tension, increase blood circulation, and promote muscle relaxation. Even though not touching the eye, stimulating the surrounding areas can help improve eye sensation and boost tear production. It’s important to ensure that the eye massage is always gentle and not painful. Unless one has experience with massage or acupuncture, it’s best to seek advice from a professional before trying it out. Using warm compresses The eyes need a mix of three things to stay moist, and these include water, oil, and mucus. These are produced by the oil glands along the edge of the eyelids. However, there are times when these oil glands can get clogged due to flaky eyelids and inflammation in the eye due to dry eyes, so warm compresses are a remedy that helps with this. Here’s what one can do – wet a clean washcloth with some warm water, wring out the excess water, and then place this warm cloth on the eyelids.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection is a disease caused by the respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus. It is quite a common respiratory health condition in many areas around the world. In most cases, this disease is not overly dangerous. So, the affected people get recovered within a week or two. However, RSV infection can have serious health consequences for infants and older adults. Here are a few tried-and-tested ways to avoid respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV): Wash hands frequently with soap The respiratory syncytial virus tends to stay on one’s hands when they touch infected surfaces. So, whether a person is at home all day or goes out to buy groceries or run errands, they are likely to have the viral particles stuck on their hands at some point. Washing one’s hands regularly with soap and water is an effective way to eliminate these particles from there. One needs to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to get the best results. Alternatively, one can also carry a can of sanitizer with them wherever they go. This can be used to regularly sanitize and disinfect hands. Avoid touching possibly contaminated surfaces The respiratory syncytial virus particles are surprisingly easy to spread from one surface to another. If the viral particles are somehow present on a switchboard inside a house, everyone who touches it will have the viral particles on their hands in no time. This problem is especially pronounced outdoors. While one can disinfect surfaces inside their home, that is impossible outdoors. This is why people must avoid touching any surfaces outdoors or indoors as much as possible. This is especially necessary for often-touched surfaces such as elevator buttons, thrash cans, staircase handles, seats and handles in public trains and buses, and similar others. Avoid touching one’s eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands Now, admittedly, even attempting to avoid touching any surface all day long is impossible.

Peeing is such a natural part of our daily lives, that we rarely stop to think about it. It is an important bodily function that helps get rid of waste that the body does not need anymore. Moreover, peeing habits and hygiene practices can contribute to a range of urinary and bladder issues over time, impacting one’s day-to-day activities. Here are seven common peeing mistakes to avoid for a healthy bladder. Holding pee in for too long At times, holding pee in is unavoidable, whether at concerts or long car trips. However, making it a habit can be detrimental to bladder health. Full bladders are more susceptible to infections as the bacteria can grow and multiply at a quicker rate. Over time, the practice of holding urine in for too long can also stretch out the bladder and cause loss of bladder function. On the other hand, those who are not able to hold their bladder at all or suffer from urinary incontinence must visit a urologist or pelvic floor therapist for a proper diagnosis. Not emptying the bladder fully When peeing, it is important to empty the bladder fully. Failing to do so can stretch out the bladder and contribute to bladder troubles over time. This may not always be a conscious decision, it may occur when someone is in a rush or has urinary retention (a common symptom of blockages, infections, swelling, or even neurological conditions). Some symptoms of urinary retention include pain or swelling in the lower abdomen, frequently urinating in small amounts, feeling the urge to pee even after urinating, and having a slow stream. Staying dehydrated This is one of the most common mistakes to avoid for a healthy bladder. Our fluid intake plays a crucial role in maintaining bladder health. Drinking the right amount of water makes the pee appear clear or light yellow.

The bones are arguably the most critical element in the human body. Bones provide structure and facilitate any movement the body makes. However, many people worldwide do not think twice about their bone health. Certain foods and lifestyle habits are detrimental to one’s bone health. Every time an individual eats such foods or carries out those habits, they reduce the strength and longevity of their bones. Here are a few such habits: Drinking too much coffee Drinking coffee is a favorite activity for many people.  Millions worldwide drink the beverage to keep themselves awake and going while they are working. Unfortunately, caffeine, the chief component of coffee, is not suitable for one’s bones. Many studies have found that coffee drastically reduces bone density in postmenopausal women. About six milligrams of bone calcium are lost for every 100 milligrams of caffeine one consumes. Therefore, to avoid osteoporosis, a health condition in which the bones become incredibly weakened and porous with time, one must stop drinking caffeine-rich foods or consume them in moderation. Failing to get enough sunlight Vitamin D is a vital element when it comes to keeping the bones healthy. Sunlight is an abundant source of vitamin D. Therefore, people must go outdoors more often to expose themselves to early morning sunlight, arguably the richest source of vitamin D. This habit can keep their bones strong and healthy for many years. Conversely, people who do not get sunlight or cannot step out of their house long enough to expose themselves to the sun are vulnerable to weakened bones and joints. Sitting on the couch for too long The body needs frequent movement to prevent stiffness and other flexibility-related issues. If an individual sits on a couch or a chair for too long, they are depriving their body of this all-important movement.

Schizophrenia is a disorder in which one can experience changes in their behavior, feelings, and thoughts. The most common form of this condition is paranoid schizophrenia, where one has an altered perception of reality. Additionally, it is a chronic disorder with episodes followed by remission. Fortunately, one can find treatments and self-help strategies to manage the condition. But first, one has to recognize early signs of the condition and seek a prompt diagnosis. Disorganized speech and thoughts Some people with schizophrenia may experience issues in communication and concentration. This means when asked a question, one may give a completely unrelated answer. One may also form a sequence of random words that do not make sense. Additionally, schizophrenia can lead to thought disorders in which a thought can be suddenly disrupted, making one remain silent before new thoughts form. People with the condition may have episodes where they keep repeating certain words and sentences. Further, issues with associative thinking can be one of the earliest and most subtle signs of schizophrenia. Here, one can move from one thought to another without getting to the point and experience extremely disjointed thoughts. Although in such circumstances, the thoughts may seem random or disconnected, they are usually connected to each other tangentially or superficially. Lack of motivation One of the subtle signs that may indicate schizophrenia include a lack of motivation, also known as avolition. Here, one may observe unwillingness to complete certain tasks. While this can seem harmless, as a result of this symptom, one may find it difficult to take care of their own health or keep a job. For instance, not showing up for scheduled appointments and meetings, ignoring incoming calls and messages, and not dealing with day-to-day family responsibilities can be some of the signs. For such cases, healthcare professionals suggest a combination of treatments, including cognitive and behavioral therapy.

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Tumors arise in the mucosa region of the esophagus, which is the inner lining. Early detection of this cancer can help successfully treat the disease, so observing early signs and symptoms is essential. Also, here are some of the changes in the body to observe, possible treatment options, and prevention tips for the disease. Trouble swallowing Also known as dysphagia, this is a prevalent symptom of esophageal cancer, where swallowing becomes a difficult task. It usually feels like food is stuck in the chest, and also, for some people, swallowing becomes impossible, and they start to choke. As the cancer spreads, the esophagus narrows down with time, making it even more difficult to swallow. This also increases the intensity of pain in the esophagus. Those suffering from this condition are asked to switch to smaller meals, eat soft foods, and try to eat less solid foods. Getting the symptoms checked by the doctor immediately is recommended so that early detection of the disease can be done and treatment for the same can be started. Chronic chest pain Chronic pain is another common early warning sign of esophageal cancer, like chronic heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. This chest pain feels like a burning sensation in the middle of the chest and becomes even more prominent with this type of cancer. Another sign to observe is that some people may experience chest pain right after swallowing the food in a few seconds. This usually happens when the food reaches the tumor site in the esophagus and causes pain. Seeking professional advice on how to manage this is exceptionally crucial. Change in body mass index If there is any change in the body mass index without any extra effort, then it may point to an underlying cause or disease.

A healthy lifestyle is the first step toward ensuring overall well-being. This requires prioritizing health even amid busy schedules. However, approximately two in five adults in the country are dealing with high cholesterol. Here, a meal plan comprising all essential nutrients, combined with an active lifestyle, plays an integral role in preventing diseases. So, here are some healthy, easy-to-make snacks that one can add to their daily meals when dealing with high cholesterol: Tofu and vegetable sandwich Studies have shown that having about 25 grams of soy protein a day can lower LDL cholesterol levels by 5 to 6%. Tofu, which is made of soy, is an excellent vegan source of protein and can help provide the body with the required energy levels. Moreover, vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are rich sources of soluble fiber, which aids digestion and has cholesterol-lowering properties. So, whole-grain bread slices stuffed with tofu, vegetables, and a few spoonfuls of lentils or sprouts make for a scrumptious breakfast that can help manage cholesterol levels. Sprouts salad In addition to being crunchy, delectable, and easy to prepare, sprouts are packed with proteins, iron, vitamin C, folate, magnesium, and other essential nutrients. A regular intake of sprouts can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and manage blood sugar. One may prepare a salad comprising sprouts they like (sprouted black beans, kidney beans, moth beans, and black-eyed beans) and salad vegetables (i.e., carrots, cucumbers, and chopped spinach). An olive oil dressing can enhance the salad’s flavors and increase its nutritional value. Oatmeal and nut cookies Loaded with soluble fiber, iron, amino acids, zinc, and selenium, oatmeal is the perfect way to start the day. Further, tree nuts like almonds and walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower bad cholesterol. So, delicious oatmeal and nut cookies can serve as perfect healthy snacks to lower cholesterol and are great alternatives to processed and deep-fried foods.

The pancreas is a vital organ that controls blood sugar levels and aids digestion. When cells in the pancreas begin to mutate and multiply, they form a tumor. Generally, these growths generate in the ducts of the pancreas, and the cancerous growth that begins in the pancreas is termed pancreatic cancer. Early stages of pancreatic cancer may be undetectable in imaging tests. This form of cancer is also known for being resistant to several treatments. What are the types of pancreatic cancer? There are two major types of pancreatic cancer: Exocrine tumors Over 90% of pancreatic tumors are exocrine tumors, which develop from the exocrine cells in the pancreas. These include adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, adenosquamous cell carcinoma, and colloid carcinoma. Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) Also known as Islet Cell Carcinoma, these tumors are less common and develop in the endocrine gland of the pancreas. The endocrine gland secures insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels. What are the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer? Pancreatic cancer often goes undiagnosed until it spreads to the other organs (reaches the metastasis stage). Being vigilant and regularly checking for the following signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer can help receive an early diagnosis and manage the condition better: Stomach and back pain A dull pain in the upper abdomen and the middle or upper back is a common sign of pancreatic cancer. It generally occurs because the tumor in the pancreas begins to put pressure on the stomach or the spine. For some people, this pain may worsen when lying down but alleviates when leaning forward. However, since abdominal pain can differ from person-to-person and have several underlying causes, one must discuss all their symptoms with their doctor. Jaundice When the amount of bilirubin in the body increases, it could lead to jaundice.

Menopause is a natural physiological transition that signals the permanent end of menstrual cycles. It is preceded and followed by several hormonal changes, leading to symptoms like heat flashes, sleep cycle disruption, and vaginal dryness. Unless they are severe, these symptoms do not usually require any medication. However, one’s lifestyle, such as what one eats or avoids, can alleviate or aggravate these symptoms. So it is essential to make certain food changes during menopause. Foods to eat during menopause Here are a few foods to eat when one is going through menopause: Yogurt It is a nutrient-dense food with a lot of health benefits. It is enriched with calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins D and K and helps balance estrogen levels, which decline during menopause. Adding yogurt to breakfast smoothies or having it as a snack can also help improve bone density since low estrogen increases susceptibility to bone breakage. Fatty fish like salmon Fatty fish include anchovies, herring, mackerel, salmon, black cod, sardines, bluefin tuna, whitefish, striped bass, and cobia. These are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Moreover, these have antioxidant properties. Regularly eating these can help alleviate a few menopausal symptoms by lowering the severity of night sweats and the frequency of hot flashes. Cheese Cheese is one of those foods that is often deemed unhealthy. However, it can be eaten guilt-free since it has several health benefits for those undergoing menopause. Including cheese in salads, sandwiches, and pasta can help manage perimenopausal (the phase before menopause begins) and menopausal symptoms. It can also be a standalone snack, such as cheese sticks, to get all the essential nutrients, such as protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamins K and D. Whole grains like barley Whole grains are packed with many minerals and nutrients, which are great for combating the effects of menopause.