Living with a chronic condition isn’t easy; you’ll always have to be on guard against elements that trigger the condition and will have to lug your medications wherever you go. Asthma is one such chronic condition that, according to the CDC, affects approximately 25 million people in the country. Moreover, this condition is quite prevalent in children—1 child out of every 12 is diagnosed with asthma. Asthma is an inflammatory condition that affects the airways to the lungs and makes breathing difficult. This, in turn, makes performing any physical activity impossible. Mostly, people opt for medications to keep asthma under control and prevent an asthma attack. But there are others who rely on alternative treatment techniques to control asthma symptoms and keep the condition in check. Here are some effective home remedies to keep asthma under control. Acupuncture Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese treatment method that involves inserting thin needles into specific points in the body. In fact, this method has been used in western countries as well to improve the symptoms of asthma. Acupuncture improves lung function and is believed to modulate the immune system as well. Also, there is an increase in studies on the effect of acupuncture in treating respiratory conditions. Although some have yielded inconclusive results, some have reported that acupuncture can control the symptoms of asthma. Yoga One of the major triggers of asthma is stress, and one of the best ways to deal with stress is to practice yoga. The breathing exercises used in yoga can help people with asthma control breathing as well as relieve stress. There are certain yoga poses that can improve asthma symptoms as they open your throat and chest and facilitate easy breathing. The Bound Angle Pose, Bridge Pose, Bow Pose, and Cat Pose are some of the effective yoga poses that can help you deal with asthma symptoms.

An overactive bladder can make one feel the urge to urinate about eight or more times every day. It can also lead to incontinence and leakage. Moreover, an overactive bladder could be a warning sign of an underlying medical condition. It is not just a medical condition, but it can also affect one’s professional and social life. However, there are some traditional remedies and ways to train the bladder and get it back under control. What causes overactive bladder? Medical conditions: Sometimes, diseases like diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, kidney failure, among others can cause OAB. Age: As you age, your muscles start to weaken. Older people, especially those above the age of 60, are more likely to have OAB. Menopause: Women going through menopause experience several changes in their body. Sometimes, they also face the problem of incontinence. The drop in estrogen levels is believed to be one of the causes of this condition. Pelvic muscle weakness: When your pelvic floor muscles are damaged or weakened, it can distort the bladder and can result in OAB. UTI: Urinary tract infections can also cause OAB. Sometimes, OAB can occur without any identifiable causes. Symptoms Urge to urinate several times a day, both during the day and night Incontinence Urine leakage OAB and your lifestyle Those who suffer from an overactive bladder and incontinence may feel its effects in many aspects of their lives. They may be embarrassed by the frequent trips to the restroom. Some patients may also suffer from constant anxiety. People start to avoid social gatherings, going out to the movies or any other public place, skip going on vacation, may even feel uneasy in their own home, with their own family. Common remedies for an overactive bladder OAB can be treated and controlled in the following ways: Medications: There are a few drugs prescribed for OAB that are known as anticholinergics.

Acid reflux during pregnancy: Symptoms and lifestyle changes to avoid them Acid reflux is a condition wherein one experiences pain in the lower chest area, which is commonly referred to as heartburn. When the acids of the stomach travel back to the esophagus, this condition arises. During pregnancy, hormonal changes may cause the LES or lower esophageal sphincter to not function properly; this is the valve to carry food to the stomach. Also, towards the second and third trimester, the fetus grows and puts more pressure on the stomach, thereby causing food to re-enter the esophagus from the stomach. Signs and symptoms Some of the common signs and symptoms of acid reflux that one may experience during pregnancy are: A burning sensation in the chest near the area behind the breastbone just after eating Chest pain experienced because of bending over, lying down, and eating Burning sensation in the throat or the aftertaste of a sour or salt-tasting fluid towards the back of the throat Belching Prolonged coughing Hoarseness in the throat Symptoms similar to asthma It must be noted that the occasional heartburn is usual and the pain may cease in some time. However, if the pain is persistent, this might be a cause of worry. A possible reason may be gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, which is the next stage of acid reflux, or it may even be gastritis. Almost half of the women complain about heartburn during pregnancy. However, if it becomes more frequent, that is when a doctor should definitely be consulted for treatment. Suggested lifestyle changes There are several lifestyle changes that may be adopted in order to avoid heartburn or acid reflux, and make the pregnancy very safe for the mother as well as the baby. Here are some of the steps one can consider taking:

Gout or arthritis is one of the most common problems that affect both men and women at large. The symptoms of gout include severe pain in the joints, inflammation, and redness that causes extreme discomfort. Mainly, the big toe is affected, causing uneasiness while walking or doing normal chores. Other joints affected by gout include the knees, elbows, joints between the fingers, and such. It is mainly caused due to the accumulation of excess uric acid in the joints. The patients suffering from gout have to pay thorough attention to their regular diet so that they can keep the pain at bay. Here are some of the superfoods for gout to help prevent gout episodes. Superfoods for gout Patients suffering from gout should follow a strict diet to manage the condition, but the superfoods for gout are both delicious and healthy for the body. The foods prescribed for patients must have lower purine content as purine increases uric acid levels in the body. Here are some foods to help with the condition: Nuts Almost all types of nuts are considered to be superfoods for gout as they are loaded with vitamins and minerals, which help in regaining lost bone strength and repairing damaged tissues in the long run. Whole grains Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and barley are undoubtedly the best superfoods for gout. These are rich in fiber, which helps in maintaining a healthy gut. They are also loaded with nutrients and vitamins that cater to the body’s daily requirements. Legumes Legumes are highly recommended as one of the beneficial foods for patients of gout, especially because of the range of nutrients. Legumes like soybeans, lentils, tofu, and other types of beans are extremely helpful in reducing pain and inflammation of the affected region. Fruits Fruits ideally work wonders for health and are downright considered a superfood for gout.

Eczema, scientifically known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that leads to dry and itchy skin on the body. It is usually caused by inflammation. One can tackle this condition’s symptoms by eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones. The wrong foods can often trigger flares and worsen the condition. Read on to learn more about the foods that should be eliminated from your meals if you have eczema. Cow’s milk Cow’s milk is one of the most common eczema triggers in children. In rare cases, it can also cause flares in adults. However, completely removing milk and dairy products from a child’s meals can lead to vitamin and other deficiencies. Instead, this food should be avoided only in cases of severe eczema. Doctors can also suggest food substitutes for cow’s milk. Eggs Eggs are commonly known as eczema triggers in both adults and children. While the reason behind this is unknown, studies show that almost 70% of those who have eczema are allergic to eggs. Aside from this, long-term consumption of raw eggs can lead to biotin deficiency, triggering eczema. Soy Soy and soy products are rich in amines that can trigger eczema. Individuals suffering from eczema can avoid soy by reading the labels carefully because soy is present in many foods including chocolate and tea. Tomatoes Those suffering from eczema should avoid tomatoes and foods that contain tomatoes. Tomatoes are rich in salicylates, amines, and natural MSG. All these chemicals are known to trigger an eczema flare. Peanuts Peanut is one of the most common allergens across the globe. It is so common that people with eczema are more likely to develop a peanut allergy. It is crucial to avoid peanuts and foods containing peanuts to prevent an eczema flare-up. Oranges, kiwis, and grapes All three fruits are highly acidic and are rich sources of salicylates and amines.

Recognizing the subtle yet critical distinctions between Parkinson’s disease and Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) might be a challenging task for healthcare professionals. This is because these neurological conditions share some common signs, such as involuntary movements and speech difficulties. However, understanding their unique presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Learning about the signs could also help curate the right treatment plan. Here are seven similar early signs between Parkinson’s and TD that are often overlooked. Anxiety Both Parkinson’s and TD can enhance anxiety levels in affected individuals. Managing not only the motor symptoms but also the emotional well-being of patients is crucial for their comprehensive care. Impaired gait People with Parkinson’s disease and TD might also experience impaired gait. In Parkinson’s, it results in a shuffling, hesitant walk due to muscle rigidity, and balance problems. In TD, abnormal, jerky limb and trunk movements disrupt coordination, leading to an unsteady gait. These gait disturbances significantly affect mobility and daily life. Problems with speech Parkinson’s and TD often lead to pronounced speech difficulties due to involuntary movements affecting the tongue, lips, and facial muscles. This results in slurred speech, articulation challenges, and difficulties forming words, severely impeding effective communication. Akathisia Akathisia or feeling of restlessness, poses a shared challenge in people with Parkinson’s and TD. In Parkinson’s patients, it often emerges as a byproduct of motor discomfort due to bradykinesia and rigidity, leading patients to shift positions restlessly. In TD, akathisia may result from certain treatment options, which may cause restlessness and make it difficult for patients to remain still. Depression In Parkinson’s, dopamine deficiency and motor impairments contribute to emotional distress. TD’s involuntary movements may lead to social isolation and depression. Both conditions highlight the need for holistic care to enhance the overall well-being of patients. Grunting Grunting in Parkinson’s disease and TD is an often overlooked phenomenon.

The development of cancerous cells in the testicles, generally observed as a lump in the testicles, is called testicular cancer. Testicular cancer is disease that can be fatal. Here are the lifesaving testicular cancer treatment options you should know about. *body* Testicular cancer can be described as a disease where cancerous cells are formed in the testicles. The testicles are testosterone and sperm producing glands which are placed in the scrotum sac (loose skin that is located below the penis). The spermatic chord consisting of numerous blood vessels and nerves holds the testicles inside the scrotum sac. Most testicular cancers begin from the germ cells which produce premature sperms that flow through tubules and get stored as matured sperms. Cancerous cells affect the healthy cells, and multiply causing various kinds of symptoms such as painful or painless lumps in the testicles, discomfort, sense of heaviness in the lower abdominal area, enlargement of the testicles, collection of fluids in the scrotum sacs, excessive pain in the back and groin area, etc. There are various testicular cancer treatment options such as chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy, however there are certain drawbacks or side effects that may or may not occur depending on the stage of cancer that the patient is on. Side effects may include infertility and problems in the sexual functioning of the patient. The following are different kinds of testicular cancer treatment options that are made available for the patients diagnosed with this disease. Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy is characterized by the use of external beam radiation directed at the infected areas. The radiation causes irritation among the infected cells, the normal cells have enough time to recover from the damage caused while the cancerous cells are weak and do not recover from the damage. Hence there are a number of sessions arranged for testicular cancer treatment through radiation therapy.

The thyroid gland is situated at the base of the neck. It helps produce hormones to regulate crucial body functions like heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure. An uncontrolled growth of cells in this gland is known as thyroid cancer. While most thyroid cancers are curable, it is vital to identify the symptoms early for effective treatment. Here are seven must-know silent warning signs of thyroid cancer that help diagnose the condition. Sleep changes Abnormal cell growth in the thyroid gland can cause it to produce excess amounts of hormones like triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones overstimulate the central nervous system and lead to insomnia. Therefore, if an individual’s sleep patterns change abruptly, it could indicate thyroid cancer. Fatigue The human body often tires after a hard day’s work or strenuous physical activity. But those with thyroid cancer may experience fatigue upon waking up after a good night’s sleep. It is because an underactive thyroid may lead to lesser production of the hormones necessary to stay energetic. Bowel irregularities The thyroid gland helps keep the digestive tract running smoothly. So, someone with thyroid cancer may have subtle signs of an underactive thyroid, including poor hormone production, which may lead to regular constipation. On the contrary, an overactive thyroid may lead to symptoms like diarrhea. Increased sweating The thyroid gland helps regulate the body’s energy production. However, cancerous cells in the gland may lead to higher hormone production. This phenomenon may increase the body’s metabolism, causing people to feel warmer and sweat. Therefore, people who sweat without exerting their bodies should get checked for thyroid cancer. Mood changes Mood changes are another silent warning sign of thyroid cancer. For example, a person might feel sudden bursts of anxiety even if they have never experienced these symptoms before. Voice irregularities It is normal for people with the common cold to experience temporary voice changes.

It is crucial to keep the lungs healthy in order to prevent the onset and escalation of serious conditions. There is a possibility that harmful toxins in the environment and consumption of inflammatory foods can lead to ailments such as chronic MAC infection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis. Altering lifestyles and eating a nutrient-rich food regime can boost lung health. Here are five foods that can improve the function of the lungs. Beetroots and beet greens Beetroots are beneficial for the lungs, as they contain nitrates that relax blood vessels, decrease blood pressure, and improve oxygen levels in the body. On the other hand, beet greens are rich in magnesium and potassium, both minerals that boost lung health and help manage chronic MAC disease. Apples Apples, filled with beneficial flavonoids and a phytonutrient called quercetin, have always been known to keep doctors at bay. This fruit also contains phytochemicals that help keep your lungs healthy and your throat passageways clear. Apples contain all the good antioxidants that prevent chronic ailments. Ginger This immunity booster is an age-old remedy that helps keep the respiratory system healthy. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory spice and relaxes muscles of the lung tissue. A cup of ginger tea after your last meal aids digestion too. Bananas Bananas strengthen the heart and prevent oxidative damage of cells caused by free radicals. It is loaded with potassium and fibers that help promote lung function. Bananas are one of the fruits that people of all ages can consume. Tomatoes Lycopene is a carotenoid antioxidant that improves lung health, and tomatoes are full of them. They help in reducing inflammation of the airways in patients with asthma. Tomatoes boost immunity, too, as they are rich in potassium and vitamin C. In patients with severe lung conditions, doctors may recommend a change in lifestyle and antibiotics like Esbriet.

Bunions are a common condition among many people. You might have either experienced one or seen a foot that has a bunion. The medical term for bunion is hallux valgus. Bunions are formed when the bone or the tissue shifts out of place at the bottom joint of the big toe. This change is often a result of prolonged abnormal motion of the feet. One of the most common causes of bunions is wearing the wrong kind of footwear for years. Excessive pressure on the big toe joint forces it to bend away, thus causing a lump at the joint. This lump or bunion is often very painful and requires immediate attention. Are Your Shoes To Blame? Bunions are mostly the result of the kind of shoes you wear. Shoes significantly influence the way we walk and might cause excessive pressure on the toes. Stilettos are a common cause of bunions among women. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Avoid wearing stilettos every day or for prolonged hours as a precaution against bunions. It is a common condition among older women. Research suggests that women tend to develop bunions more often than men. If your joints are flexible, your foot joints may adapt to all kinds of shoes. But if you have stiff joints, you are vulnerable to getting bunions. Here are a few bunion treatments that are sure to help you. Bunion Pads, Splints, And Shoe Inserts Help If your bunion isn’t too painful, you might have developed it due to uncomfortable shoes. Switch to comfortable footwear immediately. Make sure that you wear shoes of the right fit and avoid high heels. Orthotic specialists often suggest bunion pads, splints, and shoe inserts for relieving one’s feet of a bunion. However, if you have been advised to use these, you must take care that they don’t put pressure elsewhere on your foot.

When nasal mucosa produces mucus in excess, it causes PND or post-nasal drip. It is a common problem under such circumstances. All the glands in the lining of your throat, nose, and airways produce mucus continually. These glands work toward cleaning and moistening the nasal membranes, clears and traps inhaled foreign particles, humidifies the air in the airways, and fights with infections. You do not realize its presence, but you swallow it unconsciously all through the day. However, when mucus production happens in abundance, it starts dripping from the back of your nose thereby causing post-nasal drip. The symptoms of post-nasal drip include coughing, sore throat, congestion, feeling weak, and difficulty in swallowing. A lot of things can trigger post-nasal drip. These include flu, common cold, sinus infection, allergies, excessively dry air, cold temperature, medications, spicy food, hormonal changes, perfumes, chemical fumes, smoke, cleaning products, and other similar irritants. You can treat most cases of post-nasal drip with home remedies. You would find all the ingredients in your kitchen to get rid of it. Following are certain ways of treating post-nasal drip: Salt water gargle The best way to relieve the uneasiness caused due to post-nasal drip is gargling with salt water. It thins out the mucus that lets you get rid of the same. It also flushes out the irritants from the nasal passages. Process for this treatment option for post-nasal drip: – Mix ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 cup of warm water together – Keep stirring until the salt dissolves – Gargle a couple of times daily with this solution for 2–3 days Steam inhalation You can use steam post-nasal drip treatment with or without essential oils to prevent the production of mucus in excess which causes post-nasal drip. The process of steam inhalation: – Boil water and transfer it to a bowl – Add a few drops of essential oil if you have any – Cover your head with a towel and hold your face over the bowl of hot water – Inhale the steam deeply for around 10 minutes and then blow your nose – Follow this process a couple of times till you completely recover Taking a warm shower also helps in breaking up the mucus.

Several people are looking for the most effective types of shingles pain treatments available. Shingles can be described as a viral infection that causes a painful skin rash. The virus known as Varicella Zoster is one that causes this skin condition. Chickenpox is caused by the same Varicella Zoster virus. If you ever had chickenpox, this virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues located near your brain or spinal cord, and after many years, it reactivates to cause shingles. They are usually found in a strip, band, or a small area on the face or other body parts. Older adults are more vulnerable to shingles; moreover, if you have a weak immune system due to injury, medicines, or stress, you have higher chances of getting affected by this skin disease. Shingles are not basically infectious Shingles are not a serious problem but the pain can be really severe. You do not need to worry getting this disease from someone else because it is not an infectious disease. Still, there is a small possibility of a virus getting spread from a person suffering from shingles rash to another person who has never got affected with chickenpox or who has not taken the chickenpox vaccine. The symptoms of shingles Only a smart part or one side of your body becomes vulnerable to shingles. You experience pain and burning sensation and a tingling sensation or numbness can also be felt. Another common symptom is the sensitivity to touch and after having started the pain, a red rash starts to appear after some days. Sometimes, fluid-filled blisters are formed and they often break and crust over. Itching is another tendency that many people feel. It has been reported that some other people experience fatigue, light sensitivity, headache, and fever. Of course, pain the first sign and it can become really intense.