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Atopic dermatitis – Causes, symptoms, and more
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Atopic dermatitis – Causes, symptoms, and more

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a disorder that results in dry, irritable, and inflammatory skin. Though it can affect anyone, young children are more vulnerable to this disorder. The symptoms include recurring (chronic) and sporadic flare-ups, though it is not contagious. Atopic dermatitis patients risk contracting asthma and seasonal and food allergies. Regular moisturizing and skin disease condition-related treatments help alleviate itching and prevent further outbreaks. Using medicated lotions or ointments during treatment is also helpful. Symptoms Depending on an individual’s age, the severity of the condition, and other circumstances, symptoms of atopic dermatitis may vary. Those who have the condition typically experience phases of worsening symptoms, followed by times of improvement or even complete disappearance. The following sections will cover some likely variances in symptoms in more detail. General eczema symptoms Eczema symptoms are usually not severe. The most common signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis include dry, itchy skin, skin flushing, or weeping sores.  Individuals with severe eczema skin disease may need more intensive care to eliminate their problems. Infections of the skin can also result from persistent touching and scratching. The appearance of the skin area afflicted by atopic dermatitis will vary depending on the frequency of itching and infection. Itching, redness, and irritation can all worsen by rubbing and scratching the skin. What causes eczema skin disease? The underlying etiology of eczema still has to be thoroughly comprehended. The cause, according to scientists, is an overactive immune system. When allergens from the outside come in contact with the skin, the immune system reacts, causing eczema to flare up. A collection of typical flare-up triggers is provided below. Additionally, researchers have shown that the bodies of some people with eczema do not produce enough of the protein filaggrin. This protein is essential for keeping skin healthy and nourished.
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Afib – Types, causes, symptoms, and management
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Afib – Types, causes, symptoms, and management

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) occurs when the usually stable and regular electrical impulses in the heart’s upper chambers (atria) begin firing chaotically, causing them to quiver or twitch (fibrillate). This can cause blood accumulation and clotting in the atria. These clots can reach the lungs through the blood vessels and cause pulmonary embolism or can reach the brain, resulting in a stroke. Let’s look at the forms, signs, and causes of Afib and its treatment options: Types of atrial fibrillation Afib can be classified as one or more of these: First-diagnosed Afib: Regardless of symptoms or the number or length of episodes, this refers to individuals diagnosed for the first time with Afib. Asymptomatic Afib: This condition is also called silent Afib, given the lack of signs or symptoms. A random electrocardiogram (ECG) could reveal asymptomatic atrial fibrillation. Paroxysmal Afib: Two or more episodes of the conditions that spontaneously resolve within a week are categorized as paroxysmal Afib. Persistent Afib: This refers to two or more episodes of atrial fibrillation that last seven days or more. Long-term persistent Afib: If the condition persists for more than a year, it is referred to as long-term persistent Afib. Permanent Afib: This is a chronic condition that cannot be managed using common treatment options. So here, the patient and doctor decide to stop treatment to get the heart rate back to normal and begin considering other management options. Causes and risk factors Typically, the condition is brought on by coronary artery disease or high blood pressure. Often, atrial fibrillation is triggered by an irregular heartbeat. However, it might occasionally be difficult to determine what triggered such irregularity, and there may be no apparent cause in some cases. In most cases, Afib runs in families, so if one has a family history of the condition, i.e., a close relative has the condition, the likelihood of developing the condition increases.
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How to reduce sugar intake and manage blood sugar
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How to reduce sugar intake and manage blood sugar

It is a known fact that too much sugar can be devastating for your health. When blood sugar is high, the body produces more insulin, which can lead to several health complications, including prediabetes and diabetes. So, you must cut down on sugar. Choosing healthy snacks and increasing fiber and probiotic intake can help. Moreover, regular exercise is essential. Here are a few tips to lower sugar intake and manage blood sugar levels naturally. Avoid carbohydrates A high intake of carbohydrates has a substantial impact on blood sugar levels. The body breaks down carbohydrates into sugars like glucose, which enters the blood. While the body requires glucose for energy, an excess can be harmful. As the amount of glucose increases, so does the amount of insulin produced by the body, leading to a greater risk of lifestyle disorders. Some foods with an abundance of carbs to stay away from are potato chips and donuts. Control your portion size If you are dealing with frequent blood sugar spikes, monitoring portion size can help. When you eat a large meal, blood glucose increases suddenly. To avoid this, eat smaller meals. You can opt for five to six small meals per day instead of two or three large ones. Use smaller plates, eat slowly, avoid going to restaurants, and keep a food journal. This will not only help manage high blood sugar but also reduce calorie intake, which has several benefits. Consider foods rich in fiber Fiber helps slow the digestion of carbohydrates and sugar absorption, gradually controlling blood sugar. Unsurprisingly, many people with type 1 diabetes can manage their condition better by including more fiber in their meals. Some foods high in fiber are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. However, remember that too much fiber can also be a problem. Speak with a doctor to determine the right amount based on your condition.
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11 management options to keep anxiety at bay
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11 management options to keep anxiety at bay

People with anxiety disorders regularly and excessively experience fear and panic in everyday situations. If unchecked, anxiety can impair normal functioning and degrade the quality of life. One must consult a health expert if anxiety is affecting their social life. But first, ensure that any physical health issues are ruled out before consulting them. Most individuals with anxiety disorders need medication or therapy, but coping strategies and lifestyle decisions can also be helpful. Stop and take a breath When you experience an anxiety episode, take a moment to think about what is making you feel uneasy. Usual anxiety symptoms include concerns about a recent or distant event. For example, you can worry that something wrong will happen to you in the future. Or, you can still be upset about something that has already happened in the past. But, whatever your concerns, most anxiety issues stem from not focusing on the present. The next time you feel nervous and get distracted from the present moment, sit down and take some deep breaths to reclaim your composure. You can regain balance and return to the present moment by pausing and taking a few deep breaths. If you have the time, consider advancing this practice by experimenting with breathing techniques. Noting down your triggers One must identify what’s upsetting them to address the underlying cause of their anxiety. One can achieve it by setting aside time to assess your emotions and thoughts. Journaling is a fantastic method to connect with your anxiety triggers. Keep a diary or notepad beside your bed if your anxiety-related thoughts keep you awake at night. You can note down all the issues troubling you. Another technique to identify and understand your nervous feelings is speaking with a friend. Consider the things you can change Worrying about things or incidents that are yet to occur or might never occur can often lead to anxiety.
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Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management
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Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Cancer that originates in the breast tissue is called breast cancer. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country. The condition is seen in women more than men. Fortunately, advancements in screening and breast cancer treatment have enabled dramatic improvements in survival rates over the years. The symptoms include changes in the texture and shape of the nipples, discharge from the nipples, and a lump in the breast.  Read on to learn the causes, types, and management options of breast cancer.  Causes of breast cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells divide and multiply more rapidly than healthy cells. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or mass. Doctors have not been able to know the exact cause of breast cancer. However, multiple factors can trigger the chances of developing the disease, and they include: Family history and genetics The risk increases if you have parents or close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Having gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are passed down from parents to children, also increases the risk. Age The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age.  Gender The risk of developing breast cancer is higher in women than in men.   Personal history of breast conditions The risk increases when an earlier biopsy has indicated atypical hyperplasia of the breast or lobular carcinoma in situ or if cancer has been detected in one breast. Radiation exposure The risk of developing the disease increases if you have been exposed to radiation in your head, neck, or chest areas during past treatments. Hormone replacement therapy Women who use hormone replacement therapy may be more prone to breast cancer. Types of breast cancer Breast cancer  can be categorized into two broad types— invasive and non-invasive.  Invasive breast cancer Cancer that has spread from the place of origin to other parts of the body is termed invasive breast cancer.
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Things to know about chronic kidney disease
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Things to know about chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease   occurs when there is a gradual failure of kidney function due to illnesses, genetics, etc. The kidneys’ main role is to filter waste matter and flush out excess bodily fluids, but advanced kidney failure causes fluids, electrolytes, and waste to build up in the body. Various factors must be understood to manage the condition, including the causes, symptoms, prevention tips, and more. Read on to learn more about chronic kidney disease. Causes of chronic kidney disease The main causes of chronic kidney disease are as follows: Diabetes When the body’s sugar levels are too high and become unmanageable, bodily organs stop functioning as normal. The first to be affected are the kidneys, leading to diabetes, which, in turn, affects the nerves, eyes, and heart.   High blood pressure This is when blood pressure against the walls of the blood vessels increases, and can lead to chronic kidney disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Hence, chronic kidney disease can also be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure.   Genetics Chronic kidney disease can also be passed down through the genes. Therefore if someone in your close family has the condition, it is likely to be passed down to you.   Autoimmune disease Lupus nephritis is an autoimmune disease that causes swelling of the small blood vessels, which are responsible for flushing waste out of the kidneys.  Birth disorder Sometimes, certain malfunctions of the kidneys develop in the mother’s womb and can cause infections and kidney damage later on in the person’s life.   Other causes Kidney stones or tumors can cause kidney damage or failure if not treated in time.  Glomerulonephritis It is a group of diseases that can cause inflammation in the filtering segments of the kidneys. This disorder is one of the most common types of kidney disease. Vesicoureteral reflux This is a condition that causes urine to back up into the kidneys.
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Have these 14 foods to manage macular degeneration
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Have these 14 foods to manage macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that causes changes in the macula, leading to vision loss. Though there is no cure for this condition, following an eye-healthy meal plan is important in managing complications like vision loss. A nutritional regime for age-related macular degeneration should include healthy amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Some foods that contain eye-healthy vitamins that help manage symptoms of macular degeneration are listed below. Macular degeneration Age-related macular degeneration is a primary cause of vision loss among people aged 55 years and above. The condition refers to the deterioration of the central part of the retina called the macula. Symptoms include blurry vision, blind spots, difficulty recognizing faces, visual distortions, and more. Studies indicate that nearly 20 million people in the country live with some form of age-related macular degeneration. This condition occurs in two forms- the dry and the wet form. The dry type occurs when the macula gets thinner with age. This condition gradually progresses over the years. The dry form can advance into the wet type when abnormal blood vessels develop in the back of the eye and harm the macula. The wet type of AMD usually accelerates vision loss. Leafy green veggies Dark-green, leafy vegetables are rich in beta-carotene and carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin. Including leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens in your meal plan can increase the pigment density in the macula and potentially slow down age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Also, keep up a healthy intake of cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage, all excellent sources of essential vitamins. Colorful vegetables Colorful vegetables such as carrots, red and yellow pepper, pumpkin, and tomato contain carotenoids that contain essential vitamins for the eyes, such as lutein and zeaxanthin. To manage macular degeneration, include all these colorful and eye-healthy veggies on your plate.
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Natural remedies and foods to manage wrinkles
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Natural remedies and foods to manage wrinkles

Wrinkles, also known as rhytid, are fine lines or creases appearing on a person’s skin as they age. They are a normal part of the aging process and are found mostly on your face, neck, legs, and arms. While some people embrace this sign of aging, some actively look for ways to reduce wrinkles. So, if you are looking for ways to get rid of wrinkles, here are some helpful natural remedies. Causes Before discussing the natural remedies to reduce and prevent wrinkles, people must understand the reasons that increase their chances of getting wrinkles. One of the main reasons is that your skin produces fewer natural oils and collagen as you age. Along with this, the fat in the layers of your skin also dries up. It leads to the appearance of wrinkles . Besides this, other environmental factors may speed up the process of aging. These include long-term exposure to UV radiation, unhealthy lifestyle habits, lack of proper skincare routine, and repetitive facial movements and muscle contractions. Natural remedies to prevent and control wrinkles Today, several treatments are available to control and manage wrinkles . These range from topical creams to more invasive options such as surgery. However, these treatments may involve several side effects, such as allergic reactions, facial pain, swelling, bruising, and redness. Add to this the fact that anti-aging treatments are expensive and cannot fit into everyone’s budget. It is one of the reasons why more people worldwide are opting for natural remedies to manage wrinkles . Some of the most-effective remedies for the reduction of wrinkles are listed here . Applying skin-firming oils Certain oils act as collagen boosters for your skin and delay the onset of wrinkles. According to experts, coriander essential oil is a powerful remedy for wrinkles. It enhances collagen production and reduces the harmful impact of UV radiation that induces premature wrinkles .
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Everything to know about eczema
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Everything to know about eczema

Eczema is an inflammatory skin disease that causes blisters, scaly areas, rashes, and itchy and dry skin. Itchy skin is the most typical symptom of eczema. The seven types of eczema are atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. Anyone, at any age, can get eczema. Symptoms typically start in early childhood and persist through adulthood. A thorough diagnosis and personalized treatment plan are the first steps toward relief. Causes of eczema Immune system Your immune system overreacts to minor allergens or irritants (triggers) in your environment if you have eczema. Your immune system interprets minor irritants as dangerous foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses, when you come into contact with a trigger. Consequently, the triggers cause your body’s defense mechanisms to go into action. Inflammation is the immune system’s method of protection. Your skin’s eczema symptoms are brought on by inflammation. Irritants from surroundings Your surroundings may have many things that can aggravate your chances of developing skin diseases. Examples include breathing in pollutants, using harsh soaps, wearing wool, and using some skin care products. Your skin could feel dry and inflamed in low humidity or dry air. Sweating can be brought on by heat and excessive humidity, which can worsen itching. Genes If you have a family history of eczema or dermatitis, you are more likely to develop the condition. Additionally, if you have a history of allergies, hay fever, or asthma, you are at a higher risk. Pollen, pet dander, and foods that cause an allergic reaction are examples of common allergies. Filaggrin deficiency Additionally, there may be a hereditary component to eczema. A protein called “filaggrin” helps keep your skin moisturized; a filaggrin deficiency could result in drier, itchier skin. This can raise your likelihood of developing eczema. Emotional causes Your skin’s health can also affect your emotional well-being, which could escalate eczema symptoms.
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5 natural ways to manage anxiety
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5 natural ways to manage anxiety

Anxiety is an uncomfortable feeling people experience when they are nervous about meeting someone or doing something, and at times, without apparent reason. However, anxiety disorder is a condition that affects one physically and mentally. The disorder’s visible symptoms are increased heart rate, sweating, shortness of breath, trembling, and muscle tension. Excessive worrying, isolation, below-par performance, and inability to relax are other consequences. However, the condition can be managed through natural remedies and lifestyle changes. Dealing with anxiety One can follow many simple strategies to reduce anxiety and its impact. First, one must understand the triggers and the symptoms or changes when dealing with the disorder. One should also learn to identify unwanted thoughts of failure and danger. One should communicate openly with their doctor or a mental health professional, who may recommend prescription options and behavioral and cognitive therapies to deal with the disorder. They continue the treatment until they see improvement in physical symptoms and one’s ability to overcome intrusive thoughts and associated behavior. Doctors may also recommend a few natural methods to help manage anxiety and its consequences, minimizing the need for prescription options. Prescriptions have long-term side effects like dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, headaches, nausea, erectile dysfunction, and other problems. Natural methods of management Natural approaches require significant commitment and dedication from the patient. One can start by practicing these methods for a few minutes and incrementally increase the duration and intensity of these remedies. Some of the natural methods to manage anxiety are: Relaxation Learning to relax is a key step in managing the disorder. As one relaxes, their mind and body can become calmer, their muscles relax, and they stop shaking and trembling. People with the disorder can try various relaxation activities and techniques and choose the ones they enjoy the most. This could include the following options:
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Top 6 laundry detergents to consider
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Top 6 laundry detergents to consider

Every household has a list of cleaning essentials that they swear by. We tend to stick to one brand, especially in cases of laundry detergent, if they satisfy our need for them. The laundry detergent market is rapidly growing, and all of them market their products as capable of removing every stain and restoring the cloth’s texture. You can also consider your product from good quality laundry detergents suitable for different fabrics and skin types. Tips to consider while buying laundry detergent: Look for laundry detergents marked High-Efficiency if you want to conserve water. If you are conscious of the detergent’s environmental impact, choose detergents marked as eco-friendly or green. Choose detergents that contain safe bleach alternatives. If you or a family member have sensitive skin, look for a hypoallergenic formula that does not contain perfumes or dyes. Read the machine manual before choosing the detergent, as they will suggest the type of detergent to use If you are purchasing a detergent to remove hard stains primarily, then look for detergents that contain enzymes. Avoid harsh chemicals, especially if you are using natural fabric. Invest in good-quality detergents, and do not let lower prices be the sole criteria for making your decision. Detergents are available in conventional and liquid forms, pods, and tablets. Most detergent manufactures offer their product in each of the forms. While organic and plant-based detergents may not be 100% chemical free, they may contain safe and non-toxic chemicals. Six best laundry detergents to consider: Keeping the tips in mind, here is a list of laundry detergents that you should make your top choice: Persil’s ProClean Liquid Odor-Fighter Laundry Detergent Persil’s ProClean Liquid Odor-Fighter Laundry Detergent has an efficient odor-eliminating technology and offers a premium cleaning experience with lasting freshness. The detergent removes tough stains and can be used for delicates and all types of fabrics.
6 senior-friendly liquid detergents
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6 senior-friendly liquid detergents

Fabric cleaning and washing products are loaded with chemicals and can cause skin allergies, respiratory problems, headaches, and blurred vision. Seniors face a higher risk from these products as their overall health issues increase with age. Thus, it is imperative for them to choose certified and safe products for all sorts of laundry needs to stay protected from preventable emergencies. Accordingly, here are some top senior-friendly laundry detergents and cleaning products to note. Six best senior-friendly liquid detergents for use Based on the above guidelines, here are six great senior-friendly liquid detergents for daily use: Tide Purclean Honey Lavender Liquid Laundry Detergent The Tide Purclean Honey Lavender Liquid Laundry Detergent is Tide’s first plant-based liquid detergent. It is certified by USDA and is free from dyes, chlorines, dyes, phosphates, or optical brighteners. It is available in 24, 32, 48, and 64 ounces and is safe to use in all washers. The perfume is mild, and it can remove the grittiest of dirt. Puracy Natural Stain Remover If you are looking for spotless clothes and stains bother you, you can try the Puracy Natural Stain Remover. It can remove all types of stains caused by wine, food, coffee, or oil, and the associated odors. It also works on all fabric types, including your delicate clothes, linen, bedsheets, carpets, and floor mats. If you use cloth diapers, this product can also clean them perfectly without any stains or odor. Persil® ProClean® Persil is one of the best liquid detergents for removing tough stains and has been a favorite detergent for decades. It can be used in all types of washers and for all water temperatures. If you have some old, unnoticed stains, and your current detergent has been ineffective, you can switch to Persil, as it can remove tough old stains too.
9 tips to better manage ulcerative colitis
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9 tips to better manage ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by the development of sores or ulcers on the colon’s innermost lining. Its symptoms include bloody stools, diarrhea, rectal pain, cramping, fatigue, urgent bowel movements, and abdominal pain. These discomforts can unexpectedly come and go. In other words, they can reoccur after a period of remission. While you might feel helpless because of these fluctuations, you can control your symptoms with lifestyle and nutritional changes. Avoid dairy products More research and evidence are required to prove that specific meals can cause ulcerative colitis. However, experts recommend staying away from certain foods and beverages that may aggravate the symptoms. One of the most common things to avoid is dairy products. This would mean limiting or avoiding yogurt, milk, ice cream, cheese, and other products made of milk. Steering clear of dairy products can prevent abdominal pain and gas, which often result from this disorder. Do away with fiber Doctors usually advise people to add high-fiber foods to their meals, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, because of their nutritional value. But if you have ulcerative colitis, fiber can worsen the symptoms, especially if consumed in excess. So, stay away from seeds, corn, nuts, and popcorn, and see if you notice any difference. While raw fruits and vegetables may also cause trouble, do not completely ignore them. These foods might be safe if baked, steamed, grilled, or roasted. Though fiber helps regulate bowel movements, too much fiber can cause digestion issues and worsen flare-ups. When you experience a flare-up, stick to foods with no more than two grams of fiber per serving. You can also choose low-fiber foods, such as eggs, tofu, refined carbohydrates, juice without pulp, butter, fish, and cooked meat. Be smart when choosing beverages Like foods, certain beverages can also aggravate the signs of this disease by stimulating your intestines.