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Hemophilia – Early signs and ways to manage the condition

Hemophilia – Early signs and ways to manage the condition
Hemophilia is a condition wherein the blood does not clot as there are insufficient clotting proteins present. This is a rare disorder. While small cuts and wounds may not be an issue, serious injuries can be even more life threatening due to lack of blood clotting factors that prevent a person from bleeding out completely. Hemophilia is usually a genetic disorder. Let us look at some symptoms and treatment options. Symptoms Signs and symptoms of hemophilia vary from person to person. Depending on the level of clotting factors in an individual, they can experience mild to severe symptoms. Some may bleed excessively and profusely even after small cuts or injuries, including dental work and surgery. Others can be prone to many large or deep bruises frequently. Bleeding after vaccinations is also common in some people. In other cases, one may notice blood in the urine or stool along with having erratic nosebleeds. Some people may also feel pain, swelling, and some stiffness in the joints. An uncommon symptom of hemophilia involves bleeding in the brain, which can cause severe complications to one’s health. For those with severe hemophilia, a bump on the head can be responsible for bleeding into the brain.

6 warning signs that indicate osteoporosis development

6 warning signs that indicate osteoporosis development
Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens bones, turning them brittle and porous. It is often characterized by the presence of painful muscles and joints. Losing bone mass can also make one more susceptible to fractures. Fortunately, proper symptom management can help provide the person with a healthy lifestyle. However, to do so, it is crucial to be aware of the common symptoms and early warning signs of the condition and seek a timely diagnosis. Postural changes Changes in posture are among the common signs of osteoporosis. Patients often have poor spinal curvature and stoop when sitting. The loss of bone density in the body is a substantial contributing factor and results in weakened bones in the spinal cord. It also impacts the patient’s breathing due to compressed lungs. Change in height Shrinking with age is common. However, that is a change of an inch or two in the individual’s height. Whereas, the shrinkage of height in case of osteoporosis spans several inches and occurs in a shorter time. The height change is a result of bone loss in the vertebrae. Therefore, it is a must to seek timely checkup if the height changes. Brittle fingernails It might not seem like a significant issue, but brittle fingernails susceptible to breakage are a warning sign of osteoporosis, as it provides a peek at the internal health of a patient.

5 types of pain symptoms that should not be ignored

5 types of pain symptoms that should not be ignored
Experiencing pain is a natural part of life as it is the body’s way of telling what is wrong and what needs attention. Pain can be explained via factors like health history, environment, and an accident. It can range from mild to severe; however, if the cause of the pain isn’t evident and it is chronic, there may be underlying factors to manage. The pain’s root cause may also involve a potentially life-threatening health risk. Chest pain Any kind of chest pain tends to be associated with a heart attack, and while this may not always be true, it is important not to let chest pain go undiagnosed. There are other reasons chest pain could occur, including severe acid reflux, also called GERD, a blood clot that may have moved to the lungs or the heart, or other related illnesses. Chest pain could be followed by shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, dizziness, fatigue, heaviness, or tightening of the chest. Seek immediate help from a doctor to get a diagnosis and necessary treatment. Eye pain According to doctors, sudden or acute eye pain could be a sign of a detached retina, internal bleeding, or even acute glaucoma. All these conditions need immediate attention and treatment to avoid any further complications that could lead to loss of vision eventually.

4 bad habits that could lead to kidney failure

4 bad habits that could lead to kidney failure
The kidneys are vital organs that help remove waste and excess fluid from the bloodstream. Kidney failure is a severe disorder where the kidneys lose their ability to function correctly, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body. To prevent this condition, individuals must follow healthy lifestyle practices and avoid anything that can harm these organs. Several bad habits can lead to kidney failure, the most common ones being: Poor food choices Processed foods have a lot of sodium and sugar, which can strain the kidneys. It can lead to high blood pressure, diabetes, and other ailments that increase the risk of kidney disease. Processed foods also have phosphorus, another component that can harm the organ. Besides processed foods, individuals should avoid eating too much meat. High amounts of animal protein can cause excess acid production in the blood, leading to a kidney disorder called acidosis. While protein is essential for a healthy body, individuals should speak to a nutritionist to learn about the right kind of protein and the maximum quantity that can be safely consumed in a day. Experts recommend a meal plan rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and good fats to keep the kidneys healthy.

6 questions to ask a gastroenterologist

6 questions to ask a gastroenterologist
Digestion is a necessary and continuous body process facilitating nutrient absorption and expulsion of waste from the body. Consequently, problems with the digestive system can lead to issues like diarrhea, constipation, and nausea and eventually trigger conditions like irritable bowel disease (IBD). A gastroenterologist understands such issues and suggests treatment courses or remedies to heal digestion problems. This article provides an insight into some uncomfortable questions one should ask a gastroenterologist: What is the underlying cause of my condition? While several effective treatment options exist for various digestive disorders, symptom control is only a part of healing from such problems. The other part is understanding their underlying causes and addressing the issues. For example, a person may be intolerant to gluten, which may trigger problems like celiac disease. For example, a meal plan high in inflammation-causing foods may have led to the developing of an IBD-related condition. Thus, understanding the root cause is the first step to finding a long-term solution to a digestion issue. Will I need to undergo a colonoscopy or endoscopy? Sometimes, a colonoscopy or endoscopy is required to examine the exact issue in the digestive tract. These tests give doctors a clearer idea of the condition and help with timely diagnosis and treatment.

6 foods to avoid during ongoing treatment

6 foods to avoid during ongoing treatment
Individuals develop various health problems during their lifetime. While some are minor, others are severe and require many days of treatment and therapy to resolve. Irrespective of the condition’s type and severity, doctors ask patients to make specific lifestyle changes to speed up recovery. One of these changes involves avoiding foods that may interfere with ongoing treatments. From milk to chocolate and soft-cooked eggs, here are six foods patients should exclude from their meals. Grapefruit While grapefruit is delicious, some may need to avoid it when on a treatment plan. This citric fruit may interfere with how the body metabolizes the treatment’s ingredients. For instance, it may increase the absorption of specific chemical elements into the bloodstream, damaging the liver and causing the muscles to break down. Grapefruit must especially be avoided by those undergoing treatments for high cholesterol and thyroid disease. Milk Another food one should avoid when following a treatment plan is milk. Dairy products are rich in calcium, which could interfere with iron-rich treatments. They could lead to the improper absorption of treatment components into the bloodstream. Besides milk, one should stay away from dairy products like cheese and yogurt. Processed meats Processed meats are high in sodium and other preservatives.

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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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