All You Need to Know about Type 1 Diabetes

All You Need to Know about Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas almost stop producing the insulin hormone that is needed to allow the glucose (sugar) to enter the cells and produce energy. This chronic condition is also known as insulin-dependent diabetes or juvenile diabetes. It usually occurs when the immune system destroys the beta cells in the pancreas. Different medical research reports have reflected that several factors, including some viruses and genetics, may lead to this chronic condition. According to these medical reports, usually, type 1 diabetes can appear during the adolescence or childhood, and it can develop slowly in adults as well. Till date, different medical studies on this chronic condition have not come up with a permanent cure or remedy. However, the treatment mainly focuses on keeping the blood sugar levels in control with insulin. Additionally, some lifestyle changes along with a healthy diet can help prevent complications caused by type 1 diabetes. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes Due to this chronic condition, glucose from food items is unable to enter the cells and produce energy. Instead, it starts to build up in the blood, resulting in high blood sugar. It also causes the cells to starve. To prevent the life-threatening health complications caused by type 1 diabetes, patients require proper treatment. Here is a list of some of the most common symptoms of type 1 diabetes that will help you understand when to consult a doctor. Frequent urination: A patient with type 1 diabetes may feel like urinating quite often as the blood has extra sugar in it. Dehydration: The patient may become dehydrated due to frequent urination. DKA (Diabetic ketoacidosis): The combination of acidic ketones, dehydration, and extra glucose in the blood causes ketoacidosis. If not treated on time, DKA can become life-threatening. Weight loss Blurred vision Extreme hunger Increased thirst Mood swings and irritability Weakness and fatigue In the case of children, you may notice the problem of bed-wetting at night.
Foods to eat during menopause

Foods to eat during menopause

Menopause is a phase wherein a woman stops having her menstrual periods. Women can manage menopause by including the below-mentioned foods in their diet. The risk factors linked to menopause are inevitable to most women. Nutrition by managing your health with best foods to eat during menopause can help in many ways. The transition from a normal menstruation cycle to menopause can be difficult. Estrogen declines, and the balance between progesterone and estrogen declines as well. This affects metabolism and makes women gain more weight without even having to eat much. Other disorders include sleep apnea, nerve twitching, reduced bone density — these can be managed by consuming the following foods. Dairy products One of the major symptoms is reduced bone density and risk of fracture. Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk have phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and Vitamins D and K. This is one of the best foods to eat during menopause because it helps induce sleep. During menopause, women should get deeper sleep. Nowadays, due to several reasons, women have been affected by menopause at a very early stage. Dairy products are beneficial as they help reduce premature menopause by around 17%. Whole grains Whole grains are high in fiber, vitamins, and nutrients. They are an ideal food to eat during menopause because it has been proven that a whole grain diet reduces heart disease, and has anti-cancer properties. Whole grains lower the risk of developing heart diseases by 20 to 30%. Intake of every 2000 calories per day with 4.7 grams of whole grain fiber reduced the risk of death by 17%. Food items such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, quinoa, rye, and barley can be consumed during menopause. Salmon Salmon is rich in Omega 3 fats and Vitamin D. It is known to reduce palpitation, breast cancer, and pain associated with menopause.
Things to Understand About Cholesterol Levels

Things to Understand About Cholesterol Levels

A healthy person ideally has a well-maintained cholesterol level. However, many people rarely check this vital health parameter and eventually tend to suffer from multiple health-related issues. An individual who has crossed the age of 20 should normally get their cholesterol levels checked every five years of his or her life. A simple test of lipoprotein panel tells if a person is at a risk of suffering from coronary heart disease. This test states the total cholesterol level, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and HDL (good) cholesterol level. This test also states triglycerides levels which are another form of fat that can increase the risk of heart disease. Before a detailed analysis of a cholesterol levels chart is done it is important to understand the concepts of total cholesterol, bad or LDL, and good or HDL cholesterol. Total cholesterol: It is a measure of the total amount of cholesterol in the blood which is inclusive of low-density lipoprotein or LDL and high-density lipoprotein or HDL. Bad cholesterol: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is considered to be the main source of cholesterol buildup and leads to a blockage of the arteries. Good cholesterol: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) helps in removing the excess cholesterol from the arteries. Factors affecting the cholesterol levels The following factors can affect the cholesterol levels of any person: Diet of a person: The food a person eats also contributes to the cholesterol level. Saturated fats also contribute toward increasing the cholesterol levels of a person on the cholesterol levels chart. If a person tends to reduce the saturated fats in the food, it would thereby lead to a decrease in the cholesterol levels. The weight of a person: People who are overweight also tend to have a higher cholesterol level. If a person works toward reducing his or her weight, the volume of bad cholesterol or LDL decreases.
6 FDA-approved medications to treat lung cancer

6 FDA-approved medications to treat lung cancer

6 FDA-approved medications to treat lung cancer One of the leading causes of cancer deaths, lung cancer has been known to claim more lives every year than prostate, colon, breast, and ovarian cancer together. It begins in the lungs and, depending on the stage, can spread to other parts of the body as well. Lung cancer has multiple causes. However, people who tend to smoke are at a higher risk of lung cancer. The risk increases with the length of time and the number of cigarettes smoked. Other causes include passive smoking, exposure to radon gas, exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens, and a family history of lung cancer. Lung cancer causes coughing that doesn’t go away. Additionally, a person suffering from lung cancer can cough up blood, and experience shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, bone pain, and headache. Treatment usually includes surgery and medications. The below-mentioned medications are FDA-approved and need to be taken only when prescribed by a medical expert. Xalkori: Also known as crizotinib, Xalkori has been approved by the FDA for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Earlier prescribed to those with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, this medication is now recommended to those with ROS1-positive non-small cell lung cancer that had started spreading. It works as an inhibitor in targeted therapy. It blocks the changes in lung cancer cells and that interferes with the growth and spread of the cancerous cells. Tagrisso: Also called osimertinib, Tagrisso is used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. The medication is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI); it inhibits an enzyme known as tyrosine kinases, which is involved in cell signaling. Tyrosine kinases are involved in the stimulation of cell division and are active in the uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells.
All You Need to Know about Dog Allergies

All You Need to Know about Dog Allergies

Dogs are the best friends of a human being unless he or she is allergic to them. Americans love dogs. However, pet allergies are also quite common in the country. According to a report, 15% to 30% of the population has pet allergies. Allergic reactions due to other pets are not as severe as allergic reactions to dogs. Moreover, people with asthma are quite likely to have a dog allergy. This article gives the reader some information about the symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatments for dog allergies. Symptoms of dog allergies in humans Patients with dog allergies will experience several symptoms when they come in contact with a dog. These symptoms could range from mild to severe. People with low sensitivity may not experience symptoms for several days after they come in contact with dogs. Some of the symptoms of dog allergies include: Itching and swelling of the membrane in and around the eyes and nose A patient’s skin becomes red after getting licked by a dog Wheezing, coughing or shortness of breath within 10 to 30 minutes after exposure to dogs Rashes on the face, chest, and neck A severe attack of asthma for asthma patients Trouble with sleeping due to shortness of breath Pressure and pain in the face Nasal congestion Causes of dog allergies in human beings The proteins that a dog secretes generally end up in their dead skin or dander, urine, and saliva. When an allergic person comes in contact with the dog, their immune system starts to react abnormally to these harmless proteins secreted by the dog. You should also remember that different breeds of dogs produce different dander. Thus, it is possible that an individual is only allergic to a specific breed of dogs. Also, the dander could get into various surfaces like the carpet, clothing, walls or even couch cushions.
Standard Methods Used for the Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Standard Methods Used for the Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis or DVT occurs when there is a blood clot in one of the deep veins in your body. Here is everything you need to know about the different methods used for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis. When you have a blood clot in one of the deep veins, you are suffering from deep vein thrombosis or DVT. Typically, DVT affects the deep vein in your leg, and may cause swelling and pain in the leg without any other symptoms. You are at a higher risk of developing DVT, if you smoke, are overweight, lead a sedentary lifestyle, and are over the age of 60. It is extremely important that you keep an eye out for the possible signs of DVT, if you have a high risk of developing it. Deep vein thrombosis is considered to be a serious medical condition because if the blood clots break loose from your vein, they can travel to your lungs and block the blood flow there, leading to a life-threatening complication called pulmonary embolism. Therefore, it is crucial to be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms of DVT. DVT can show no symptoms in some of the cases, at least initially. However, when you do experience symptoms they will mostly be a pain in the leg that starts in your calf, and swelling in the leg that is affected. Some of the risk factors that are associated with deep vein thrombosis include prolonged bed rest, surgery, inheriting a blood-clotting disorder, pregnancy, smoking, heart failure, age, and cancer. In order to confirm the diagnosis of DVT, you may have to have tests such as duplex ultrasound, MRI and venography. Duplex ultrasound is a painless diagnostic test that uses sound waves to produce pictures of your blood vessels to check for clots.
Common Causes of a Chronic Migraine

Common Causes of a Chronic Migraine

Headache is the most common condition. It’s common for people to suffer from a mild to a chronic headache in more than one occasion in their lives. There are a number of causes of a headache. Most people mistake a chronic migraine to a chronic headache. As a result, they never seem to figure out the actual cause of headache and thus it becomes late when they actually realize the problem and try to treat them. What is a migraine? Migraine is a type of headache that is severe enough to cause additional complications in a sufferer. If you experience any of the following or all of the following symptoms, there is a huge likelihood that you are a victim of migraine. A migraine headache could range from mild to severe. It can go so serious that a person suffering from migraine may need to visit hospital emergency room. In migraine headache, there can be pain in one side o both the side of the head. Common symptoms of migraine Nausea Pain in eyes Pain behind ears Pain in temple area Sensitivity to sounds and light Blurred vision Intense pain What is a headache? Headache occurs in both side of a head. It can cause a pain ranging from mild to severe. A person may feel uncomfortable, pressure and aching in his head and around. A headache may affect body parts such as temples, forehead and back of the neck. A headache can take as long as 7 days to go. Tension headache is most common type of headache that is triggered by muscle pain, stress and anxiety. Causes of migraines There are several causes of migraines. However, it is not important that one suffering from migraine would have possibly suffered from these factors. Actual causes of migraine are not clear, but there are potential causes of a chronic migraine listed below.
8 noticeable signs of excess sugar intake

8 noticeable signs of excess sugar intake

The number of diabetes cases has risen over the past few years. Research suggests specific contagious viruses can replicate within the beta cells of the pancreas that produce insulin, affecting the hormone’s synthesis and secretion. Moreover, the mild inflammation triggered by these viruses worsens diabetes by causing insulin resistance. While people know the general health risks of eating too much sugar, there is an urgent need to identify the eight signs of excessive sugar intake. Increase in appetite Sugary foods are rich in calories. But they do not have the nutritional value that the body otherwise gains from proteins, fiber, and antioxidants found in healthy foods. Empty calories cannot satiate a full-grown adult. So, to fill this void, many people turn to compulsive snacking throughout the day. Excess fatigue People who eat sugary foods and beverages regularly might experience frequent bouts of fatigue. Excess sugar triggers abnormal changes in insulin levels, and energy levels drop rapidly as the body tries to process the extra calories. Acne and skin problems One of the most noticeable signs of excess sugar intake is adult acne and skin problems. This is mainly because of blood glucose imbalance since the body’s glycemic levels influence skin health. Digestive problems Sugar is an underlying irritant that can result in many digestive problems. People may experience stomach pain and cramping. Diarrhea is also a significant risk factor for those with gastrointestinal issues. Dental problems Having sugary foods and beverages every day increases the risk of cavities. The bacteria in the mouth thrive off particles left behind in the molars, leading to cavities and other dental problems. Joint pain Sugar is also an inflammatory trigger, so those suffering from joint problems will experience more pain with increased inflammation. Trouble sleeping Glycemic levels in the body also influence sleep cycles.
Understanding All Stages of Parkinson’s Disease

Understanding All Stages of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is commonly known as PD and is a progressive and a chronic movement disorder. All the symptoms continue and worsen over a period. In this disease, there is the death of the nerve cells which are vital, and all this happens in the brain. These nerve cells are the neurons. Parkinson affects the neurons Substantia Nigra area or part of the brain. The Dopamine levels in the brain, which help to send messages to the brain from the rest of the body gradually decrease, this, in turn, leaves the person feeling helpless as the movement is not controlled or is erratic. The cause of Parkinson Disease is unknown, and generally, there is no real cure apart from some surgeries and medications that are used to reduce the effect of the disease. The causes are divided into Genetic Factors and Environmental Factors. There is always a risk to develop Parkinson if someone in your blood relations has the same issue, the predisposition increases. Environmental Factors could be some brain injuries, environmental toxins, manganese, water, an unhealthy lifestyle, pesticides; prolonged exposure to occupational chemicals is also a cause of developing this disease. The symptoms of Parkinson disease vary from person to person. A lot of symptoms are to do with the motor skills. A person who has Parkinson will experience slowness of movement which is called bradykinesia, tremors of jaws, hands, legs, arms, face, stiffness or rigidity of limbs and trunk; there is also a lot of impaired balance and coordination in the body movements which is commonly known as postural instability. A lot of specialists say that in Parkinson Disease there is a considerable amount of loss of cells from the other parts of the brain as well which affects the senses as well, like the olfactory area and even sleep regulation is very erratic.
Fight melanoma with a high-fiber diet

Fight melanoma with a high-fiber diet

Melanoma is a type of cancer that starts in cells that affect the pigment melanin; these cells are called melanocytes. The unusual growth of these cells results in this type of cancer. This condition is a highly common yet highly serious type of skin cancer. It is mostly recognized by an unusual growth or change in the existing mole on the skin. Types of melanoma There are typically four types of melanoma. Each of the types comes from a different way in which cancer has affected the melanocytes. Superficial spreading melanoma Nodular melanoma Lentigo malign melanoma Acral lentiginous melanoma A high-fiber diet may help your gut A healthy diet is said to trigger a better response from the body when the patient is undergoing treatment for melanoma. Some studies have shown that fibers lead to a more diverse type of bacteria called microbiome which is a thriving gut bacterium. The gut microbiome has shown to trigger a strong response to immunotherapy in patients that have aggressive skin cancer. On average, a high-fiber diet may help your gut battle melanoma five times more if you start a high fiber diet at the beginning of your immunotherapy. Since a high-fiber diet may help your gut battle melanoma, you must make it an essential part of your routine. Like any other form of cancer, the chances of contracting this type of cancer is high due to factors like obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight is vital to prevent deadly diseases like melanoma. A high-fiber meal essentially has plenty of fiber and antioxidants. They are present in retinol rich foods like milk, eggs, leafy vegetables, fish and fruits that are yellow or orange. Antioxidants have a 20% chance of reducing the development of melanoma. Along with your vital fibers, vitamin D levels also need to be in check as they are associated with a risk of developing cancer, especially melanoma.
4 Common Medications that Ease Hypertension

4 Common Medications that Ease Hypertension

Hypertension, medically known as high blood pressure, is a common condition that affects a large majority of individuals across the world. An individual’s blood pressure depends on the amount of blood that is being pumped by the heart, the size of the arteries, and the amount of resistance it faces, among other factors. The narrower the arteries, the higher the blood pressure. If left untreated, hypertension can eventually cause long-term health problems including several heart diseases, strokes, and even eye damage. Many individuals go for long periods without being aware that they have hypertension. Fortunately, this condition can be easily diagnosed and treated with the right medication. Why you should choose GoodRx Medications can be an expensive affair. This statement is, unfortunately, true irrespective of the class of the drug or the disease the individual suffers from. However, it does not have to stay this way. With the help of GoodRx and its gold membership, you can gain massive discounts on various prescribed and generic over-the-counter medications. You can start by availing this benefit with a 30-day free trial period. Medication for hypertension Hypertension can be diagnosed with the help of regular blood pressure check-ups. When it comes to treating hypertension, there are four different categories of medication, namely, thiazide diuretics (TZD); calcium channel blockers (CCB); angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE); and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB). Some of the common medications under each of these categories are: Prinivil Belonging to the ACE drug class, Prinivil is a common and inexpensive drug that is used to treat hypertension and heart diseases. It is also used to reduce the risk of death after a cardiac arrest. This medication is made available by most brands, and can be found at discounted prices at some pharmacies. In fact, with GoodRx Gold , you can get a whopping 81 percent off on this lifesaver.
Six Important Factors to Keep in Mind While Choosing Medigap Plans

Six Important Factors to Keep in Mind While Choosing Medigap Plans

Medicare and Medigap plans can be quite comprehensive and complicated to understand. When you are new to Medicare, it is imperative to choose wisely and take up a policy that will cater to your needs by providing best coverage and value for money. Understanding the difference between Medicare and Medigap is the first step. Medigap does not form part of your original Medicare insurance coverage and has to be purchased separately from a private insurance entity. Even the best Medigap plans do not cover long-term policies, vision care, private duty nursing, and sometimes prescription medication. A monthly premium is paid for Medigap along with your original insurance policy. Medigap is available to people who are already insured with Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B; the distinction is to pay for hospital services under Part A and cost for doctor services under Part B. The best Medigap plans are labeled from A to N, which offer different levels of health coverage under the various labels. Open enrollment for best Medigap plans is in the first six months after the applicant turns 65 to be eligible for the various policies under A to N; however, this excludes Policies E, H, I, and J which are not available to new subscribers. Major factors that influence the best Medigap plans and supplement insurance include your age, the location where insurance is being availed, marital status, and most importantly, the healthcare costs that you have incurred or plan to incur. Here are six things you should know to get the most out of the best Medigap plans: Understanding types of plans The major differentiating factor when it comes to Medicare and best Medigap plans is pricing policy. It should also be noted that Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplement plans are completely different since Advantage plans will not be standardized and will vary in benefits offered by the various private companies.