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5 early warning signs of hereditary angioedema

5 early warning signs of hereditary angioedema
Hereditary Angioedema or HAE, as referred by specialists, is a rare condition that is passed down genetically. It affects the immune system, causing erratic control over inflammatory responses. As a result, one might experience swelling in vital organs, primarily affecting the skin, respiration, and even the gastrointestinal tract. HAE symptoms may develop as early as puberty or later during adulthood and present moderate to severe symptoms. Here is a brief overview. Common triggers of HAE HAE can be the result of stress, anxiety, or even develop as a side effect of certain prescriptions given to manage other known conditions. Further, complications from a surgical procedure, underlying chronic illnesses, allergic reactions to certain foods or beverages, and even external environmental factors can result in the following symptoms. Skin problems Visible changes in the texture and surface of the skin are among the first signs of developing angioedema. Skin tightness and a tingling sensation are among the first signs of skin problems that one might notice. The severity of the disease progression will determine the intensity of the swelling. Initially, there is no pain, but as the symptoms persist, swelling in the hands, feet, face, mouth, genitals, and even the buttocks, where the skin will become more painful to touch.

Top 9 hotspots for flu germs

Top 9 hotspots for flu germs
As cold and flu are highly contagious, it is only natural to want to take preventative measures against these infections. While it is not possible to avoid being exposed to all infection-causing microorganisms, one can take a few steps to lower the risk of contracting diseases. One of them is to avoid traditional hotspots and surfaces where these germs tend to accumulate. So, here are the top traditional hotspots for flu one should know: 1. Hand dryers With every flush, the toilet sprays bacteria-filled droplets into the air, called a toilet plume. These tend to get recycled by standard hand dryers in public washrooms, spreading the bacteria far and wide. Although most suppliers today claim that these machines are fitted with special filters to blow clean air, it may be safer to use regular paper towels. 2. Elevators Elevators, especially their buttons, can become hotspots for flu. As they are rarely wiped down, they keep collecting dust, dirt, and germs, which may cause infections. To stay safe, one can sanitize their hands after pressing the button or use their elbows to select the floor. 3. Gas pumps Gas pumps come in contact with too many users and are exposed to outdoor elements like dust and wind.

Foods and beverages to avoid for healthy teeth

Foods and beverages to avoid for healthy teeth
Following a thorough dental care routine is imperative for healthy teeth and gums. Many foods and beverages hinder oral health and cause problems like tooth decay, cavities, tooth abscess, chewing trouble, pain, and even gum diseases like gingivitis. On noticing any such tooth problems, one should alert the dentist. Depending on the symptoms, the expert may recommend treatments and other oral care tips to manage the condition and maintain healthy teeth. Worst foods and beverages for the teeth Various foods and beverages contribute to dental issues, which may cause severe discomfort if ignored. A common problem is plaque buildup, where a bacteria-filled sticky film gradually forms over the teeth. It is mainly caused due to sugary snacks, such as candy. Hence, one must ensure to avoid such foods. A few other examples are: Bread Bread might be a regular breakfast option, but it can cause tooth problems. When a person chews bread, the saliva breaks down the starch into sugar. Moreover, the bread turns into a gummy paste-like substance in the mouth, which sticks to the crevices between the teeth, causing cavities. Those who cannot do without bread may choose whole wheat varieties, as they contain fewer added sugars and do not break down easily.

5 foods to avoid when dealing with DVT

5 foods to avoid when dealing with DVT
Deep vein thrombosis or DVT develops when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body. These blood clots are usually observed in the legs and can cause leg swelling and pain. However, in rare cases, no symptoms or signs can be seen. A few health conditions that affect clotting may also increase the risk of developing the condition. Food can play a role in managing DVT. Signs In most cases, a DVT develops in the arms or legs, and up to 30% of people with the condition do not experience any symptoms. However, in some cases, people may experience mild symptoms that may not raise concerns. So, one should look for signs like swelling in the arm or leg, larger-than-normal veins near the surface, and pain or tenderness in the arms or legs. Other common signs are red or discolored skin, abdominal or flank pain, warm sensation in the affected areas, and severe headache. Foods to avoid In most cases, healthcare professionals may suggest a few lifestyle modifications, including include avoiding a few foods, to better manage DVT and even prevent it. White bread White bread and other refined foods often contain high amounts of starch.

9 common side effects of periods

9 common side effects of periods
Periods are a part of the monthly menstrual cycle for people with a uterus. It is the shedding of the uterine lining in the form of blood and other fluids and tissue that may last for 3-7 days. Approximately 5 days to 2 weeks before its arrival, 90% of people who menstruate may feel certain symptoms. This is collectively known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Some of the most common side effects or symptoms of periods include: Abdominal cramps Menstrual cramps, also known as primary dysmenorrhea, cause an achy or cramping feeling in the lower abdomen, lower back, and upper thighs. Their severity may range from dull or mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with one’s daily activities. People with conditions like endometriosis, cervical stenosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and fibroids may experience worse cramps during their menstrual cycle. Gas and bloating Some people also experience a sensation of heaviness in the stomach or may struggle to zip up their pants. This is also known as bloating and is caused due to changing hormone levels which lead to higher retention of water in the body. For most people, the worst bloating occurs on the day their period begins. The body’s hormonal changes also impact bowel functioning and can lead to gas, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea.

6 foods that worsen atrial fibrillation

6 foods that worsen atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is a health condition that causes irregular heartbeats. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems such as blood clots, heart failure, stroke, and other heart-related complications. What one eats plays a huge role in regulating their heart health. While leafy greens and nuts are beneficial for the heart, some foods can cause or worsen atrial fibrillation. This article discusses 6 foods that can worsen atrial fibrillation. Read on to learn more. Beef and lamb Healthcare experts unanimously advise clients to avoid red meat to keep their hearts healthy. Beef and lamb top the list when one talks about red meat-based foods. Beef and lamb, like other red meats, tend to contain higher amounts of saturated fats than most other meat-based foods. Saturated fats raise a person’s cholesterol levels, negatively affecting their blood circulation and increasing the risk of atrial fibrillation and other heart diseases. Instead of consuming beef or lamb, one can eat plant-based protein foods to keep one’s cholesterol levels in check. Coffee Caffeine is another food that is bad for cardiovascular health. Caffeine-filled foods such as coffee and tea stimulate the body but are equally capable of triggering atrial fibrillation. Caffeine tends to increase a person’s heart rate.

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4 common myths about diabetes debunked

When the glucose levels in the body are high and insulin levels are not proportionate enough to convert this glucose into energy, the risk of diabetes increases. It is basically the inability of the body to convert food into energy using insulin. The glucose is broken down into energy for cells to absorb and when this conversion doesn’t take place, blood sugar levels rise. If left unchecked, it can lead to a number of complications. However, there are certain myths about diabetes that can create confusion among the masses. Here is what you must know and understand about the condition. Myth 1: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same. The fact of the matter is that both type 1 and 2 are linked to insulin deficiency that causes diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce any insulin, and people suffering from this condition must rely on regular doses of insulin to supplement these requirements. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disorder that is mostly diagnosed in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body still manages to produce insulin but the cells are unable to absorb the compound necessary for converting food into energy. Depending on the severity of the condition, people suffering from type 2 diabetes may or may not need insulin shots. Myth 2: Insulin dependence Nothing can be further from the truth that insulin is a lifesaving medication and absolutely necessary for people suffering from severe diabetes. The body cannot convert food into energy without insulin. How the supply is replenished does not matter as there is a need for the deficiency to be managed better. People with type 2 diabetes can still manage a healthy lifestyle and reduce their dependence on insulin to a great extent. However, it is a mandatory medication for those who have type 1 diabetes.

The risk factors associated with dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of fluids from one’s body. It can be caused due to something as simple as not having an adequate water intake or perhaps a severe medical side effect. The symptoms of fluid loss caused due to this condition can affect people of all ages. From toddlers and infants to older adults, one can experience mild to severe dehydration depending on the primary cause of the same. Herein, we shall try and understand the severity and risk factors associated with dehydration in people of different ages. Children and infants At a very young age, infants and children are more susceptible to bacterial infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Both result in the rapid loss of fluids. Note that infants lose more fluids in comparison to adults. Young children, especially toddlers, unlike adults, may also not realize when they are thirsty. This increases the risk of staying dehydrated unknowingly until severe symptoms indicate the same. It is one of the main reasons why doctors prescribe electrolyte-rich fluids for children experiencing a high fever to help replenish the lost fluids. Seniors and older adults Adults after a certain age face more difficulties as the body gradually loses its ability to conserve water. One’s sense of thirst also becomes acute with old age, which further increases the risk. Individuals might not feel thirsty enough to have the recommended intake of water every day, further causing problems due to the loss of fluids. Furthermore, dehydration can be a direct result of certain prescription medications used for treating diabetes. The side effects can result in a fluid imbalance as medications increase the urine output, thus resulting in a higher loss of fluids from the body. Many medications also list vomiting and diarrhea as potential side effects and both can trigger a severe loss of fluids in the body.

Must-have nutrients and foods for optimal eye health

Our sensory organs are extremely essential in our daily life. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to stand straight, see things, taste, communicate, and live the way we do. But the power of sight is one of the most important of them all. Maintaining good eye health is necessary, and, unsurprisingly, making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices is crucial for this. So, here are a few nutrients you should add to your daily diet to keep your vision in top-notch condition: Vitamin A The deficiency of vitamin A is one of the most common causes of blindness across the globe. Why is this vitamin so important? Well, for starters, it helps manage and maintain the light-sensing cells in your eyes. A lack of vitamin A can cause dry eyes and other serious eye conditions. Best food with vitamin A content: To get the right amount of vitamin A in your diet and maintain optimal eye health, include foods like apricots, carrots, spinach, and yam in your diet in plenty. Vitamin C Vitamin C is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor (the liquid in the outermost part of the eye). The amount of this vitamin in the aqueous humor is proportional to the amount in your diet, and research has proved that people with cataracts tend to have low amounts of vitamin C in their bodies. Best dietary sources of vitamin C: Citrus fruits like oranges, kiwi, lime, and strawberries are all great sources of vitamin C. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts are also healthy sources of this vitamin. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are essential to maintain good eye health. DHA aids eye function. It is present in the retina and is an integral part of brain and eye development in children. Evidence also proves the benefits of omega-3 supplements for people with dry eyes.

Understanding the different aspects of a flu outbreak

Flu or influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can result in mild to severe illness and health complications. A severe flu infection can result in hospitalization and can even prove to be fatal, especially in young children, older people aged above 65, and people with underlying health conditions. There are two main types of flu viruses: Type A and Type B virus. The illness can be periodical and result in seasonal flu epidemics each year. The cold, flu, and its symptoms such as cough is caused due to the type of the viruses mentioned above. Influenza may not always be considered by most people as a serious illness, its symptoms comprising a runny nose, headaches, cough, and muscle pain can be confused with those of a heavy cold. Yet reports suggest that seasonal influenza can claim up to 650,000 lives every year. That is why influenza vaccinations are important because they protect people, especially those in at-risk categories, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with vulnerable immune systems or underlying health conditions. What most of us call “the flu” is essentially seasonal influenza because it comes around in the coldest season twice a year, once in the Northern hemisphere’s winter, and once in the Southern hemisphere’s winter in temperate zones of the world. The flu circulates year-round in the tropics and subtropics, which makes it more contagious. The worst part about the influenza virus is that it constantly mutates, enabling it to evade the mechanisms of our immune systems. The virus learns from the responses of the human body and creates a suitable defensive mechanism to survive the attack by the immune system. When a new virus emerges, it can easily infect people and spread due to its contagiousness. Very little to no immunity to a new strain can lead to a simple outbreak becoming an epidemic or a pandemic within no time.

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9 most common types of depression you should know about

9 most common types of depression you should know about

All of us feel low, upset, and unmotivated at some point in our life, but this isn’t classified as depression. Depression is a mood disorder that overshadows a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Signs and symptoms of this grave disorder can range from feeling hopeless and tired to completely losing the will to live. There are several types of depression and they are listed below so you can understand depression and people suffering from it better. Major Depression (Clinical Depression) The hallmark trait of this type of depression is the constant feeling of sadness or loss of interest in social life or any outside stimuli. It often lasts for two weeks or more in which a person can experience symptoms such as hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder) Dysthymia lasts for years and can disrupt daily life and interfere with personal and professional relationships. Individuals with dysthymia are often seen as dark, pessimistic, or complainers by others, and they have a hard time being happy in typically pleasant situations. Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder) People with manic depression experience high degrees of mood swings. Their train of thought can take them from feeling euphoric to feeling suicidal in just a few weeks.
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Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Pregnancy is a new experience in every couple’s life, and one should understand a few things to ensure that the nine months are smooth and stress-free. Simply being prepared for pregnancy and looking forward to the joy of parenthood is not all there’s to childbirth. As a couple, you must understand, review, and adjust your lifestyle. Expecting mothers become their child’s nurturers and supporters from day one, but the expecting fathers, close relatives, and friends must also understand the key roles they will play right up to the due date. Here are a few simple family and pregnancy guide points to help you and your folks get started: Staying healthy Physical and mental wellbeing is extremely crucial for the expecting mother to ensure both her and the baby’s health. Diet plays a crucial role in this process, as the mother is now providing nutrition for the developing fetus as well as herself. As a family, you can take turns to ensure that the to-be mother is staying physically active, eating healthy and regularly, and not cultivating any bad habits. More importantly, family and loved ones should be prepared for the changes to come in the upcoming trimesters. Coping with changes – what to expect Morning sickness in the first trimester is quite common and can put a woman’s body under tremendous stress.
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