8 strategies to improve immunity against severe respiratory illnesses
health

8 strategies to improve immunity against severe respiratory illnesses

Boosting immunity against severe respiratory illnesses is essential for overall health and well-being. While no single strategy can guarantee complete immunity, a combination of lifestyle choices can help enhance the immune system and allow it to fend off infections successfully. Individual immune responses can vary, and these strategies should be part of a comprehensive approach to health and wellness. Maintain balanced nutrition Including a variety of foods from all food groups like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in one’s meals every day is advised by nutritionists. To improve immunity against respiratory illnesses, one should include foods that promote better respiration. Immunity-boosting foods such as citrus fruits, berries, garlic, ginger, and yogurt with probiotics should be part of one’s daily intake to counter respiratory flareups. Stay hydrated Drinking plenty of water helps to keep the mucous membranes hydrated. This helps the body defend against respiratory pathogens. Herbal teas or ginger tea, can provide additional benefits due to their potential immune-boosting properties. Most respiratory problems worsen due to the excess accumulation of mucus in the nasal passage. Hydration loosens the gunk and helps prevent respiratory infections. Get enough sleep 7-9 hours of sleep per night is needed to support immune function and also reduce the risk of infections.
6 common laundry mistakes that can ruin clothes
Home&garden

6 common laundry mistakes that can ruin clothes

Laundry is an unavoidable household chore, and while it might appear simple enough, there is a right and a wrong way of doing it. Do it correctly and clothes can look new for a long time. Do it the wrong way and one might even end up ruining the washing machine and dryer. Here are some quick don’ts that seem harmless at first but could end up costing a lot. Overloading the Washing Machine One of the most prevalent laundry mistakes is overloading the washing machine. Trying to cram too many clothes into a single load might seem efficient, but it can result in insufficient water circulation and detergent distribution. This leads to inadequate cleaning and can even damage the washing machine over time. To avoid this, leave some room in the drum for clothes to move freely. Overloading not only compromises cleanliness but also increases wear and tear on the machine, potentially shortening its lifespan. Ignoring Fabric Care Labels Each piece of clothing comes with a fabric care label that provides valuable instructions on washing, drying, and maintaining the item. Ignoring these labels can be a costly mistake. Fabrics vary widely, and improper care can lead to shrinkage, fading, or stretching.
5 silent and shared symptoms of Parkinson’s and TD
health

5 silent and shared symptoms of Parkinson’s and TD

Parkinson’s disease and tardive dyskinesia (TD) are neurological conditions that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. While they are distinct disorders with their own set of characteristics, there are instances where their symptoms overlap, making it challenging to differentiate between them. These silent symptoms often go unnoticed, delaying diagnosis and treatment. This article explores five shared and often overlooked symptoms of Parkinson’s and TD, shedding light on the importance of early detection and proper management. Muscle rigidity Muscle rigidity, or stiffness, is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease and TD. In Parkinson’s, it’s primarily caused by a shortage of dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating muscle movement. This shared symptom can manifest as stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and limbs. It often progresses slowly, making it easy to dismiss as a sign of aging or unrelated muscle strain. However, ignoring muscle rigidity can lead to delayed treatment and increased discomfort. Tremors Tremors are perhaps the most recognizable symptom of Parkinson’s disease but can also occur in TD. These involuntary rhythmic movements, often described as shaking or trembling, can affect various parts of the body, such as the hands, fingers, or even the tongue. While tremors in Parkinson’s tend to be more pronounced at rest, those in TD may appear during voluntary movements.
4 key things to know before investing in precious metals
finance

4 key things to know before investing in precious metals

In the world of investments, precious metals have long been a favored choice for those seeking to diversify their portfolios and hedge against economic uncertainties. The appeal of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium is not limited to their aesthetic appeal but extends to their intrinsic value. Investing in these metals may require some careful consideration. So, to help one get started, here are a few things to know before investing in precious metals: 1. Type of precious metal Before investing in precious metals, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the various types available and their unique characteristics. The four primary precious metals investors typically consider are gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Gold: This is a timeless, valuable investment due to its scarcity and durability, often used for wealth preservation. Silver: This is valuable for both its industrial and precious metal applications, subject to supply-demand fluctuations. Platinum: Rarer than gold, platinum is mainly used in the automotive industry and has more volatile prices. Palladium: This usually is in demand for catalytic converters but has limited supply and thereby offers significant price growth. Each of these precious metals has its own supply-demand dynamics and factors affecting its price. So, it is crucial to research and understand the specific market forces that influence the metal one intends to invest in.
6 common gold investment mistakes and how to avoid them
finance

6 common gold investment mistakes and how to avoid them

Gold has long been considered a reliable investment, offering stability and a hedge against economic uncertainties. One can harness the potential benefits of gold by adding it to their investment portfolio. However, like any investment, gold comes with its set of challenges and pitfalls. Many individuals looking to invest in gold make common mistakes that can impact their financial goals. Here are a few of such mistakes to avoid when investing in gold. Not conducting research One of the most common mistakes people make when investing in gold is investing without sufficient research and knowledge. Gold investment involves various options, such as physical gold (coins and bars), gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and gold mining stocks. Each option has its characteristics, risks, and costs. To avoid this mistake, one must take the time to learn about the different forms of gold investment, understand market dynamics, and stay informed about economic factors influencing gold prices. Being well-informed is the foundation of successful gold investment. Falling for sales pitches Some individuals fall prey to aggressive sales pitches promising extraordinary returns on gold investments. These pitches often come with high-pressure tactics and may involve rare or collectible coins that are sold at inflated prices.
7 common mistakes to avoid when applying for a home loan
finance

7 common mistakes to avoid when applying for a home loan

Getting a home loan is a significant financial milestone for many individuals and families as it allows them to achieve the dream of being a homeowner. However, the process can be complex and daunting for most. Making mistakes during the home loan application process might have long-lasting consequences. Awareness of these seven common mistakes is crucial to successfully navigating this journey. By knowing about these errors, one could also take steps to avoid them. Ignoring credit score management A high credit score signifies financial responsibility and makes qualifying for favorable loan terms easier. Many applicants make the mistake of neglecting their credit scores until they apply for a home loan. To avoid this mistake, potential home buyers should regularly monitor their credit scores and take steps to improve them if necessary. Paying bills on time, reducing credit card balances, and avoiding new debt may positively impact credit scores. Neglecting to prequalify Prequalifying for a home loan is an essential step that might save applicants time and frustration. One needs to give basic financial information to a lender, who then estimates the loan amount for which the applicant may qualify. Some home buyers skip this step and proceed to search for homes, only to discover later that they cannot secure the desired loan amount.
8 signs that indicate the need for dental implants
health

8 signs that indicate the need for dental implants

A smile is one of an individual’s most valuable assets, and a set of perfect teeth plays a crucial role. The teeth help us chew food, speak clearly, and enhance facial aesthetics. However, dental problems can arise over time, leading to discomfort and tooth loss. Dental implants have emerged as a sound solution to restore missing teeth and improve oral health. Thus, some signs indicate it might be time to consider dental implants. Missing teeth The most apparent sign of needing dental implants is when one has more than one missing tooth. Not only can gaps in a smile affect one’s self-esteem, but it can also lead to shifting of remaining teeth, bite problems, and difficulties in chewing. Loose dentures If one wears dentures and finds that they no longer fit securely or feel loose, it could be a sign that the jawbone has deteriorated over time. In such cases, dental implants can provide a stable foundation, allowing patients to enjoy a secure and comfortable fit. Difficulty chewing When one experiences pain or difficulty while chewing, it could be due to missing teeth or weak ones. Dental implants can restore one’s ability to chew correctly, enabling one to enjoy a broader range of foods and maintain a balanced and nutrient-rich meal plan.
10 foods for managing skin cancer symptoms
health

10 foods for managing skin cancer symptoms

Food choices play a key role in maintaining and improving skin health. Further, when dealing with conditions like skin cancer, certain foods can support recovery. While nutrition-based changes are not a replacement for treatment, they can be part of a comprehensive management approach to improve skin health. So, here are a few foods that can offer essential vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties to help improve overall health, especially when managing skin cancer:  Berries Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamins C and E. These nutrients combat free radicals, potentially mitigating skin damage caused by UV rays. Adding a handful of these colorful fruits to the morning cereal, yogurt, or a refreshing smoothie can be a great way to get antioxidants. Fatty fish Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. So, the foods can help manage inflammation associated with skin conditions. These fish varieties can be grilled or baked with a squeeze of lemon or added to salads for a nourishing meal. Leafy greens Green veggies like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, helping maintain skin health and managing skin cancer symptoms.
10 foods that help clear congestion and promote lung health
health

10 foods that help clear congestion and promote lung health

Strong and healthy lungs are essential for overall well-being. Allergies, infections, environmental pollutants, and other factors can lead to lung congestion and discomfort. While traditional treatments offer relief, natural remedies can also play a pivotal role in easing congestion and bolstering lung health. Among natural remedies, nutrition is a valuable tool for promoting respiratory health in the long run. Some superfoods are known to clear congestion and support the lungs. Ginger Ginger is a versatile spice known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help clear congestion by reducing inflammation in the airways and promoting mucus clearance. One can consume ginger in various forms, including fresh ginger tea and ginger-infused dishes. Garlic Garlic is not just a flavorful addition to one’s meals; it also has potent antimicrobial properties that can help fight respiratory infections. It contains allicin, a compound known for its immune-boosting abilities. Incorporating garlic into daily meals can help the body fight infections and reduce congestion. Turmeric Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. It can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate congestion. To reap its benefits, one can add the yellow spice to curries, soups, or even warm milk. Honey Honey naturally suppresses cough and soothes the throat.
8 silent signs of high cholesterol to note
health

8 silent signs of high cholesterol to note

High cholesterol is a prevalent health concern affecting millions of people nationwide. While many people associate high cholesterol with visible symptoms, it often progresses silently, leading to serious cardiovascular issues. Recognizing these silent signs of high cholesterol is essential for its early detection, as it can lead to timely interventions that could potentially save lives. So, here are eight silent signs of high cholesterol that one should be aware of. Fat deposits around the eyes (Xanthelasma) One subtle sign of high cholesterol is the appearance of fatty deposits around the eyes that have a yellowish tinge, known as xanthelasma. These soft, raised patches can develop on or near the eyelids and are often painless. While xanthelasma itself doesn’t cause health problems, it can be an indicator of underlying high cholesterol levels. If one notices these deposits, one must consult a healthcare provider for a cholesterol check. Gray or white rings around the cornea (Arcus Senilis) Arcus senilis is a white or gray ring that forms around the cornea. It’s a common sign of high cholesterol and usually appears in individuals over 40. While this condition typically doesn’t affect vision, it can signal elevated cholesterol levels and should prompt a discussion with the healthcare provider.

Top Articles

Important things to know about kidney and liver-related diseases
health

Important things to know about kidney and liver-related diseases

The kidney and liver are two important organs in your body. You must keep them healthy to maintain a happy and safe life. However, you should also be aware of some important facts about the liver and kidney-related diseases so that you can visit your doctor before any health-related issue becomes more serious. Kidney and liver diseases and stages Chronic kidney disease is a medical condition that affects your kidneys. However, it progresses in five different stages and usually does not affect both the kidneys at once. Before learning about the stages of this illness, you need to first understand what Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is. The age, gender, race, and serum creatinine are taken into account to calculate a person’s GFR, which determines the stage of chronic kidney disease. The serum creatinine is a type of waste product, which comes from the body’s muscle activity. As the condition of your kidney worsens, it filters less and less creatinine. The GFR calculation uses this to determine the kidney condition. Stage 1 : GFR > 90 ml/min Stage 2 : GFR = 60-89 ml/min Stage 3A : GFR = 45-59 ml/min Stage 3B : GFR = 30-44 ml/min Stage 4 :
Oral health issues and their diagnosis and prevention
health

Oral health issues and their diagnosis and prevention

Oral health indicates overall health, so regular oral hygiene is important to prevent cavities, bad breath, gum diseases, and other mouth and teeth issues. Also, oral health is important at every stage of life, and it should not be taken lightly as oral diseases can also spread to the rest of the body. Let’s take a look at the basics of oral health issues and how to prevent them. Common oral health problems Oral health problems can affect people at different stages of lives: Infants A routine to help children maintain oral hygiene. When a child starts getting their first teeth, parents should wipe their gums with a clean, moist washcloth. Gradually, they can change this washcloth to a toothbrush for kids. Also, a child must be taken for their first dental visit within 6 months of the first tooth erupting, which should be not later than a kid’s first birthday. Additionally, parents should always stop children from sucking their thumbs as it can affect their tooth alignment. Also, never let them sleep with a bottle in their mouth as this can cause tooth decay. Children and teenagers Many who have crooked teeth start showing signs between the ages of 6 and 12.
Essential factors of mental health issues
health

Essential factors of mental health issues

There are a lot of misconceptions that people have about mental health. With the little information on mental health, people are often narrow-minded when it comes to treating mental illnesses and often this causes a big problem for those who have mental health problems. To help you understand better, we are here to provide you with the details of mental health problems, which include its stages, diagnosis, and treatment. Stages of mental health issues The following stages are generally experienced by patients: Stage 1: Preconception When the patient is in this stage, they may mostly be in denial. It is possible that they point out that something seems off but they are fully capable of going about with their usual routine. Stage 2: Contemplation At this stage, it is clear that the patient needs medical help. The symptoms have started to set in, and it has now started to affect the day-to-day routine of the patient. Stage 2: Crisis If stages 1 and 2 are dealt with in the right way, this stage can be avoided. If not, the patient may face a nervous breakdown. Stage 4: Getting Help This stage should ideally come before the crisis for the problem to be averted.
Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of multiple sclerosis
health

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the spinal cord and the brain. Some of the common symptoms of multiple sclerosis are weakening and numbing in the body, blurring of vision, headaches, loss of hearing, speech issues, seizures, and bladder issues. The main treatment of multiple sclerosis focuses on managing symptoms of the disease. Let us take a look at the stages that the person goes through in case of multiple sclerosis. Stages of multiple sclerosis There are four stages of multiple sclerosis. These include: Clinically isolated syndrome A clinically isolated syndrome is usually the first attack of multiple sclerosis experienced by patients. It is marked by an inflamed myelin sheath. At this stage, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) test is used to make a proper diagnosis. Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is the most common stage. Most patients experience symptoms of this stage before the age of 30. Patients may experience episodes of symptoms. Relapse in this stage can lead to brain lesions. If patients go into remission, this phase can continue for a few weeks or even several years. Primary progressive multiple sclerosis Primary progressive multiple sclerosis usually begins in patients after they cross the age of 40.
Important things that you must know about pain management
health

Important things that you must know about pain management

The techniques of pain management are devised based on the cause of pain. Pain management also depends on the severity and duration of pain. It focuses on the identification of the source of pain and selecting the best course of treatment. Let us take a closer look at some of the aspects of pain management. Types of pain The most common types of pain are: Neuropathic pain It’s a type of pain, which impacts the nervous system. In this form of pain, there is damage to the nervous system. A typical example is a diabetic neuropathy. Neuropathic pain can also include fibromyalgia, sympathetically maintained pain and irritable bowel syndrome. Nociceptive pain It is a pain that results from a bone that is broken in the body. This pain is determined by the transfer of signals from the peripheral nerves to the brain through the spinal cord. Somatic pain This pain is a type that affects the thighs and back of the patient. Every time a patient goes to the doctor with back pain, their doctor checks their medical history and conducts a physical exercise test and imaging test. After an accurate diagnosis, the pain can be adequately treated. Cancer pain Cancer or the treatment of cancer can cause this type of pain.
Understanding the essentials about menopause
health

Understanding the essentials about menopause

Menopause is a stage at which the woman stops going through menstrual cycles. It is only considered menopause if you have not had your period for at least 12 months. In the US, the average age for it to occur is 51, but it can start as early as your 40s. It is a biological process that occurs naturally but, due to certain symptoms it causes, it can lead to disruptions in your daily schedule and life. Stages of menopause Menopause has three different stages, as given below. Perimenopause Before the actual menopause starts, the women’s body goes into the process of shifting from natural menstruation and ovulation cycle to permanent infertility. This stage is known as perimenopause. It generally starts in your 40s, but some women may experience it in their 30s too. The symptoms include irregular periods, sleep problems, and hot flashes. Menopause If you have not had your period in one year, then the perimenopause is over, and the actual menopause stage begins. You cannot get pregnant once you enter this stage. Postmenopause The years that follow are the postmenopause stage. The physical and emotional symptoms of menopause start to subside in most cases. You start to regain your energy levels and feel more emotionally stable.