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Tree pollen allergy – Symptoms, types, and management tips
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Tree pollen allergy – Symptoms, types, and management tips

Tree pollen allergy is one of the most common types of allergies. Pollen is a fine powder-like substance produced by a tree. The wind picks it up and spreads it around, causing more of that tree’s species to grow in different places. As this happens, the pollen sometimes lands on one’s clothes and blows in through open windows. For those allergic to tree pollen, this can quickly trigger several allergy symptoms. Symptoms of tree pollen allergy In general, tree pollen causes hay fever or allergic rhinitis, which has several symptoms. Some common signs of tree pollen allergy include: Persistent sneezing This is one of the most common tree pollen allergy symptoms. One may sneeze as the body tries to remove the allergens from the nasal passages. The sneezing may persist for a while, making it hard to focus on the task one is doing. Runny or stuffy nose Nasal congestion causes stuffiness or a runny nose. This symptom usually occurs when the allergy triggers inflammation in the nasal passages. Itchiness in the eyes, nose, and throat When pollen triggers an allergic reaction, the immune system releases histamines as a self-defense mechanism against the foreign particles. This causes itching in the eyes, throat, and nose, which can cause discomfort. Watery eyes The body might naturally respond to the irritation brought on by the pollen by producing tears. That’s why a person may experience watery eyes. Tears try to wash off the allergens and clear the nasal passages. Cough Sometimes, pollen irritates the throat and starts a dry and persistent cough. Constant fatigue As too many symptoms develop, managing them can be exhausting. Besides, the immune system goes on an overdrive trying to fight off the allergens. This too causes quick depletion of energy. So, a person experiences constant fatigue until the allergy goes away.
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9 brain-boosting foods that help fight dementia
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9 brain-boosting foods that help fight dementia

Dementia can be a difficult condition to deal with. It not only impacts the individual’s memories but also changes one’s lifestyle. Dementia can lead to confusion, fear, and frustration in patients, and it can be challenging for them and their loved ones. However, some exercises and food habits can help lower the risk of dementia. Including some brain-boosting foods as a staple is the first step to living a life with healthy cognitive ability. Salmon Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining brain health. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, is a major structural component of the brain. Found in high levels of fatty fish, it is essential for maintaining healthy brain cells and promoting cognitive function. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), another omega-3 fatty acid, has anti-inflammatory effects that protect the brain from damage. To reap the brain-boosting benefits of omega-3s, include fatty fish by grilling or baking salmon. Adding sardines to salads or sandwiches or enjoying mackerel with whole-grain crackers is also an option. Blueberries Berries are highly recommended for heart and brain health. They are potent food that protects vital organs against potential damage. Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries can be added to the menu. Research indicates that the flavonoids found in berries may help combat age-related cognitive decline. Berries can easily be incorporated into your diet by adding them to salads, smoothies, yogurt, or cereals. Consuming berries at least twice a week is recommended to reap their potential benefits. Beans For a healthier brain, beans must be included regularly in meals. Beans are not only low in fat and calorie content, but they also have high fiber and protein. They help keep the mind sharp and aid in rest and rejuvenation.
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9 surprising benefits of a Medicare Advantage plan
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9 surprising benefits of a Medicare Advantage plan

Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) is a comprehensive alternative to Original Medicare. Private insurers that offer Medicare Advantage plans contract with the federal government to offer health insurance benefits to those who qualify for Medicare. This plan has many benefits that attract more users each year. While it might have attractive features, Medicare Advantage might not be ideal for everyone. The best way to decide is by learning about its associated benefits. Low monthly premiums Individuals with Medicare are usually attracted to Medicare Advantage plans because they are marketed as “zero premium” products. Medicare Part C is similar to traditional Medicare, where enrollees must pay the Medicare Part B premium. On the contrary, people who sign up for Medicare Advantage do not have to pay a separate premium for additional coverage for or for Part D prescription premiums, as in the case of traditional Medicare. Medicare Advantage rebate dollars cover these costs.  Also, note that the costs may differ by plan, so one must shop around to find the top options. Financial protection A Medicare Advantage plan offers financial safety because of its pre-fixed annual out-of-pocket limit. For instance, if one’s costs reach the limit, the plan covers 100 percent of Medicare-covered healthcare costs for the rest of the year. However, traditional Medicare sets the maximum out-of-pocket limit each year, and plans can set their limits at this amount or lower.  There is no out-of-pocket protection with  Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Dental, fitness, hearing, and vision coverage Medicare Advantage offers additional benefits, such as reduced cost-sharing, gym memberships, dental coverage, and debit cards for over-the-counter healthcare supplies, typically not covered by traditional Medicare. The extra benefits are funded by rebates,  which is  the difference between the amount that a plan bids (estimated spending per enrollee on Medicare-covered services) and the benchmark (maximum amount Medicare will pay per enrollee in a given country).
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10 best laundry detergents and their features
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10 best laundry detergents and their features

Detergents are available in multiple forms, such as pods, powder, and liquids, and choosing the best one can be tough. In addition to daily wear clothing and regular laundry items, you could have some garments that require specialized products for effective cleaning. Some members of your family might have sensitive skin and need mild chemical-free products. So here is a list of the best detergents that can make your laundry task hassle-free.  Gain Laundry Detergent Among the list of laundry detergents that are known for their fragrance is Gain Laundry Detergent. The liquid not only cleans your clothes but also gives them a delicate fragrance that can last for up to 6 weeks or until the garment is worn. This detergent can be used in all washing machines, including highly efficient ones. The detergent also has Oxi Boost, a combination of surfactants, enzymes, and pre-treaters that aid in eliminating stains and odors that could be two weeks old. Moreover, this product is available in multiple sizes to cater to the needs of every household. Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent Among the laundry detergents that excel in stain removal is Persil Proclean. This concentrated liquid offers deep cleaning and has stain-fighting enzymes. It has an active scent boost that eliminates the toughest of stains and odors so that your clothes have a fresh feel. This detergent has exceptional performance in all washing machines and provides effective cleaning at all water temperatures. The clean rinse formula and low suds ensure that white clothes stay white and bright clothes stay bright. Kirkland Laundry Detergent If you are looking for laundry detergents that are easy on your pocket, then choosing this Kirkland laundry detergent will be the best. The detergent offers a great combination of performance and cost-effectiveness. It has an ultra-clean formulation which enables it to travel deep in the fabrics to eliminate odor and stains.
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.
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.