Treatment options for dyskinesia Seeking treatment for dyskinesia may get complicated depending on the severity of the disease. Some people try going off the medication levodopa altogether as most doctors agree that this medication is the primary cause for the condition. However, if you are off levodopa, you face a new set of challenges. The tremors, stiffness, and rigidity start surfacing again — this may result in the doctor prescribing additional doses of levodopa. Most doctors think that it is important to find the right balance. Some people may have to go off levodopa for a longer period of time, but the aftereffects can be tough to handle. Other people may choose to stay on the drug for long to avoid the severe consequences of Parkinson’s disease and dyskinesia. Let’s examine some of the treatment options for dyskinesia. Medication Opt for a controlled release form of levodopa. This prevents you from experiencing peak levels of the medicine, giving you relief from dyskinesia. Another alternative is breaking down the daily dose of levodopa into smaller more frequent doses throughout the day so as to prolong the effects. Some people also use other drugs that slow down the breakdown of levodopa so that its effects are felt for a longer time. The dosage of dopamine agonists could also be significantly increased and the dosage of levodopa should be brought down to a minimum tolerable level. A gel that contains levodopa and carbidopa is also applied on the upper part of the small intestine, and this stabilizes dopamine levels in the bloodstream and allows for smoother control over your motor functions. Amantadine, which is also called a glutamate antagonist, controls glutamate, which has an effect on dopamine levels. It can be administered orally or intravenously. Motor diary A motor diary can be very useful for you and your doctor to check how your medications are working.

5 effective home remedies for amyloidosis Amyloidosis is a condition in which the body is unable to process the protein amyloid correctly. Excess amyloid gets distributed through the body and can often impair organ health and functioning. Amyloidosis affects people in different ways depending on which organ is impacted. The different types of amyloidosis are renal, cardiac, and gastrointestinal amyloidosis. There is no known cure for this condition, but it can be managed with a balance of home remedies and medicines. Here are five effective home remedies to help control the symptoms of amyloidosis. Heart-healthy foods The heart is one of the main organs that gets impacted by improper protein processes in the body. Thus, it is essential to follow a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet for heart health. Foods that are good for your heart include green leafy vegetables, avocados, walnuts, tomatoes, beans, nuts and seeds, garlic, onions, and dark chocolate. Also, make sure to get sufficient potassium in your diet through bananas, oranges, prunes, and dried fruit. Omega-3 diet Including these healthy fatty acids in your diet prevent complications from amyloidosis from reaching the heart and affecting the circulatory system. Omega-3 can be found in walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, and linseed oil. Compression stockings Water retention from amyloidosis can lead to severe swelling in the legs and feet. This swelling is often accompanied by severe pain. Wearing compression stockings can go a long way in relieving this pain. You can request your doctor to recommend the best compression stockings suited to you. Alternatively, try to get foot massages done regularly. These will help to improve blood circulation in the affected areas. Many online shopping sites offer foot massage machines for purchase. Rest adequately Getting adequate rest is often overlooked and yet this is a crucial component of managing the symptoms of amyloidosis.

Diet for schizophrenia: What to eat and what to avoid? Schizophrenia is a mental illness that can cause delusions, paranoia, social and cognitive problems, and hallucinations. While the most common method of this condition is medication and psychotherapy, those who have schizophrenia can benefit from following a proper diet. Certain food items must be avoided, while there are a few that would be good for schizophrenia patients. What to avoid There are certain food items that a schizophrenia patient should avoid as can cause various health problems that can aggravate the condition. Sugar Schizophrenia patients need to be in good physical health to ensure their mental health improves. Maintaining blood sugar levels is important and for this, sugar and food items containing sugar must be avoided or eaten in moderation. Carbohydrates A diet that has high carbohydrate content needs to be avoided. Instead, a diet that has low carbs and helps in keeping blood sugar in check should be preferred. It also helps in weight control, which is required for those suffering from schizophrenia. Gluten Gluten needs to be removed from the diet for schizophrenics. Most people are allergic to gluten found in wheat, rye, and barley. Studies have shown a link between gluten and aggravated symptoms of schizophrenia. What to eat A healthy and well-balanced diet helps improve both physical and mental health. The following food items and nutrients are essential for someone who has schizophrenia. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 is a very powerful fatty acid that has multiple health benefits. It has been found to be useful in improving mental health. Fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 and if one doesn’t have access to these varieties of fish, fish oil capsules and omega-3 supplements can also be consumed. Omega-3 is also found in nuts and seeds like flaxseed and pumpkin seeds.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to have or maintain an erection that is adequate to engage in intercourse. It may give rise to feelings of inadequacy and shame but one need not worry too much as the condition can be treated. Occasional ED is not a cause for concern; if the condition is long-term and persists and one frequently has a problem keeping an erection, then he will need to treat the underlying disease responsible for the condition. Herein, we look at some natural treatment options that can help treat ED. Check testosterone levels Testosterone levels decline sharply after a man hits 50 according to experts. Every year following 40, testosterone levels are said to drop around 1.3% and this could be a cause for concern. One is advised to consult a doctor if he experiences moodiness, low sex drive, trouble making decisions, or inadequate erections as these are all signs of low testosterone levels. The doctor could talk about the situation and prescribe something to help. Kegel exercises Kegel exercises are repeatedly advised for preventing incontinence and solving other sexual problems like premature ejaculation. However, there is limited evidence to show its efficacy in dealing with ED. Kegel exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles in the pelvis repeatedly and it is said to have multiple benefits like allowing men to last longer and preventing incontinence as well. One can definitely try out Kegel exercises but remember that for full efficacy he needs to pursue these exercises daily for a long period of time. Stay away from anabolic steroids Anabolic steroids are used by many sportsmen, athletes, and weightlifters. They are abused to give an added boost to their performance and this has a negative impact on sexual health. These steroids shrink the testicles and sap their ability to produce testosterone.

Common myths about birth control debunked The birth control pill was approved in the 1960s. Ever since then, it has become one of the most researched forms of medication in medical history. Although, women have become a lot more aware ever since the pill was introduced, there are still plenty of myths that exist. To that effect, the following article is all about debunking common myths about birth control: Myth 1: Birth control pills aid weight gain This is the first myth you will come across when you talk about birth control. While we do not deny that some women may gain weight while on the pill, there are research studies that have proven that there is no direct connection between the two. The reason behind weight gain is more or less bloating. It is the estrogen in the pill which can cause bloating. However, this goes away with time. Additionally, there is also progestin in the pill which can cause you to eat more than usual. This might lead to slight weight gain but nothing major that cannot be controlled with healthy eating and exercise. Moreover, many women start the pill in their 30s which is a time when they normally gain weight as part of the process of aging. Myth 2: You need to have birth control pills intermittently There is literally no medical reason for a fit woman to use a birth pill intermittently. It is completely alright to take the birth pill for as long as you would like. We would recommend consulting your gynecologist for a proper dosage that would suit you. Additionally, doctors also advise that you should keep reviewing your contraceptive needs and accordingly take the birth pills. Medical experts suggest that you should reconsider your birth control consumption pattern after the age of 35.

Pets are sensitive to different allergies. Two types of allergies are common in pets – environment allergy and food allergy. Food allergies in pets are least common but it prevails in almost 10% of US households. The reasons for the allergies include- low immunity, bowel syndrome, genetic issues, allergen contents, among others. Symptoms of top food allergies in cats and dogs include licking of paws, chronic itching, diarrhea, bad gut, puking bile, rashes on the body, chronic gas, bad breath, blood in gums, and bumps all over the body. The root cause for food allergies to occur in pets is the unhealthy diet. How to test for food allergy? There is no proper test that holds perfect for your four-legged friends. There are blood and saliva tests but as of 2019, there are not enough studies to back it up. The best way is to test certain food items on your pets. If one of the foods is allergic it will reflect massively on their body. You can wait for three to four days based on the condition. If it the condition persists, you need to consult the vet immediately. Some pets are born with epi, liver malfunction, kidney issues, and heart problems which make the pet owners switch to a better diet that is good for their health and at the same time not allergic. This happens when a sudden switch of protein has happened. Reasons for the occurrence of food allergies in dogs and cats Unable to digest a certain protein Having a bad immunity due to which the body looks at protein as a harmful substance Ingredients like corn, soy, legumes being present in dry food Having processed foods every day due to which there’s loss of immunity Not having the protein based on body mass Pet owners not helping animals to strengthen their gut Associated food that causes food allergies in dogs and cats Chicken, beef, dairy, fish, and eggs Exposure to stale food Presence of plant-based like peas, legumes, and potato Gluten allergies like wheat, oats, and certain types of grains Kibble that is high in coloring and red meat Solutions to top food allergies in cats and dogs It is advised to contact a nutritionist for finding out top allergies in your dogs and cats.

Lymphoma, a type of cancer, starts in the white blood cells or lymphocytes and can easily spread to different parts of the body. Lymphoma can be divided into two types: Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Although this condition is more common in children, it can affect anyone, irrespective of their age. The symptoms shown by lymphoma patients are painless swelling, fever, night sweats, and unintentional weight loss. The treatment options include radiation and chemotherapy. After one undergoes these treatments, it is necessary to consume healthy foods to heal the condition of lymphoma. Foods that you should consume include: Fiber A high-fiber diet is one of the natural cures for lymphoma. One should include fresh fruits, vegetables, and cereals into their diet. Regular consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables help get rid of toxins in the body. Moreover, a fibrous diet helps maintain a healthy heart and also in the digestion process. Therefore, it is important to add a variety of fibrous foods that will help heal lymphoma. This will also help one stay fuller for a long duration. Carbohydrates Starchy foods provide fiber and are the most important source of energy. Rice, potatoes, bread, and pasta are some sources from where carbohydrates can be derived. One-third of the daily food consumed should consist of carbohydrates; otherwise, one’s body would use up other nutrients and proteins to build up energy for the body. Proteins The main function of proteins in the body is to build, maintain, and repair muscle mass. The intake of protein should be slightly higher during and after the treatment of lymphoma, as the body would require more proteins to help heal the condition. Fish, eggs, beans, lentils, nuts, milk, yogurt, and cheese are some foods that are rich in protein. Although red meat is rich in protein, it should be avoided as it is linked to causing cancer.

A form of arthritis, gout leads to extreme pain, redness, and inflammation of the joints. The condition is caused by an accumulation of uric acid in the bloodstream, leading to the formation of urate crystals. Uric acid formation takes place after the breakdown of purines, which are found in certain foods items and are also produced in the body. Gout flare-ups can occur suddenly. Eating foods with anti-inflammatory properties and eliminating foods with purines helps in dealing with the condition. Treatment methods using NSAIDs and corticosteroids can also help in the management of gout symptoms and flare-ups. Here are a few medicines that can be prescribed by the doctor for the same. Naprosyn (Naproxen) A popular medication, Naprosyn, is an NSAID available in different dosage combinations according to your prescription. This medicine is effective in dealing with muscle problems as well as severe joint pain. Furthermore, it helps in lowering inflammation and swelling. It is prescribed for gout and is also recommended for managing bursitis, tendinitis, and arthritis. Generic versions of Naprosyn are available for $16.13 on an average, but with a GoodRX Gold membership, a discount of up to 76% can be availed for a dosage of 30 tablets of 500mg. A different dosage configuration will avail a different discount. Some pharmacies may offer lower prices with coupons of substantial discounts. Zyloprim (Allopurinol) With an average retail price of around $19.62, Zyloprim is available at a discount of up to 69% via GoodRx Gold in dosages of 30 tablets, each of 300mg. Different quantities and dosages have different offers applicable for them. A form of xanthine oxidase inhibitor, this medication works well in dealing with inflammation, pain, and other symptoms of gout. Moreover, Zyloprim is also prescribed for the prevention and treatment of high levels of uric acid, resulting from certain forms of chemotherapy.

Dry eye syndrome is a condition characterized by the tear glands not producing adequate fluid to keep the eyes lubricated. This condition can lead to symptoms such as scratchy eyes, eye fatigue, heavy eyelids, pain, light sensitivity, and even blurred vision. These can disrupt one’s daily schedule and be very painful, causing further distress. This article shares some home remedies that one can try to relieve the symptoms of dry eyes. 5 Tips and Home Remedies to Manage Dry Eye Syndrome Use warm compresses Warm compresses basically stimulate the tear glands to promote the production of tears. This can be a regular practice and can provide great relief when done every day. Have a good night’s sleep Lack of sleep can instigate dry eyes and eye fatigue in people who would not have the condition otherwise. It is recommended to take short breaks between screen time and get some shut-eye. Use a humidifier People who reside in a region that is dominated by dry and cold weather must invest in a humidifier for it retains the moisture in the air and helps relieve the discomfort caused by the dry weather. Stay hydrated An adequate intake of water is essential for everyone, but it’s especially important for patients with dry eye syndrome. Having enough water can further help to keep the eyes lubricated, which helps in soothing the dry eye symptoms. Use eye drops or ointments Any over-the-counter eye drops available can help soothe the dry eye syndrome and provide temporary relief. You can also opt for eye drops that induce artificial tears to lubricate the eyes; however, remember to buy the ones without preservatives. Foods to Have for Dry Eye Syndrome Foods that are a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids significantly help relieve the symptoms of dry eyes when eaten over a period of time.

Constipation occurs because of the lack of water in one’s stool, which usually occurs when too much fluid gets absorbed into the intestines, making the stool dry. Constipation is the condition in which a person experiences fewer than three bowel movements in a given week. This diagnosis has been provided by the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse that is a part of the National Institutes of Health. Constipated stools are often hard, small and dry that makes the entire process unpleasant to endure. Everybody has a different system; some people may go to pass stools multiple times a day while some may go only a couple of times every week. Treatment for constipation is seldom required unless the symptoms last for weeks. And it is possible to get relief from constipation by following some tips to treat constipation. Tips to treat constipation One of the popular tips to treat constipation is consuming fiber-rich foods. By including more fiber in the diet, it is possible to make the stools bulkier and softer, making it softer to pass through the tract. A gradual increase in the levels of fiber is recommended till the optimum level of 20 to 35 grams is achieved. Some good sources of fiber include: Whole grains Bran Foods like brown rice, cereals, and fortified bread Fresh fruits, especially apples and bananas. Fruits with high water amounts like watermelon also work well Dried fruits like apricots, almonds, prunes, and raisins Vegetables like asparagus, brussels sprouts, and carrots Beans It is also important to drink enough water to prevent constipation. One of the common tips to treat constipation is to remain active with general exercise and keep the bowel movement in motion. The following foods must be avoided during constipation as they can make it worse. Foods that are low in fiber Foods that are high in fat Cheese Dairy products Processed foods Meats A step-by-step approach is given in the following tips to treat constipation.

Scabies is an infestation caused by an itch mite known as Sarcoptes scabiei. It involves a high amount of itching, and this skin disease is a highly contagious one. Mites are parasites with small eight legs, and these tiny creatures make small holes to get into the skin which leads to severe itching. The itching tendency becomes really worse at night. You cannot see the scabies with your naked eyes and it can be seen only using a microscope or magnifying glass. These creatures only scrawl but they are incapable of jumping or flying. When the temperature levels are below 20-degree Celsius, they cannot move, but scabies can survive for an extended period of time even during hostile temperatures. If you want to know how this infection looks like, you can see a scabies rash photo online and it clearly reveals the exact nature of infestation. This problem is a worldwide phenomenon. Age, sex or race does not matter, and more than 300 million cases are being reported every year. Causes of scabies Skin contact is the most popular type of transmission and scabies remain very sensitive to the environment. It means that you get affected by this infestation when you are in close contact with an infected individual. It does not mean that you will get this infestation by shaking hands with an infected person or hanging your clothes next to an individual who is already an affected person. At the same time, you will get this skin disease easily with physical sexual contact. It is the most popular method of transmission when it comes to sexually active young people. Other types of physical contacts like a mother hugging her baby are adequate for spreading this infestation. Close relatives of the affected person are more vulnerable to this disease because of increased close contacts.

The key to finding the right kind of foods for people suffering from ulcerative colitis is to look for foods that contain all the essential nutrients but would not aggravate the digestive tract. Given below a list of food items that are good to eat when you have ulcerative colitis or colitis flare-up: Soothe symptoms with salmon Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids in high amount. It is excellent for your colon and heart health. According to a study, essential fatty acids ease inflammation. It means that salmon helps to counterbalance the inflammation caused by a colitis flare. Other food items containing a rich source of omega-3 include flaxseed oil, albacore tuna, ground flaxseed, and walnuts, which should be added to diets for colitis. Add yogurt to your meals Yogurt or any other fermented foods like miso, kefir, sauerkraut, etc. contain probiotics. Probiotics are good bacteria present in our guts and fermented foods. These bacteria are important to maintain a healthy immune system and digestion. If you eat foods that are filled with active and live cultures, they would keep optimal levels of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. Always buy yogurt that lists active and live culture on their contents’ list. However, you need to watch their sugar content. Go for only unsweetened and plain yogurt. You can add fruits or honey by yourself for some sweetness. Add squash to your diet for colitis Any variety of squash, be it spaghetti, zucchini, butternut or acorn, is a healthy choice. Squash contains antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene. They are high in fiber as well. While antioxidants aid in repairing damage caused by inflammation, fiber keeps the gut flora healthy. However, if you feel that fiber worsens your symptoms during a flare-up then you may want to avoid eating raw squash.