People should get tested for food allergies to eliminate foods that could leave them with compromised digestive systems. Those who have recently suffered an infection or have been recommended powerful treatment can also experience changes in their gut microbiota. It is yet another case where digestive problems can arise. Some common signs of poor digestive function include difficulty swallowing, painful swallowing, or chest pain while eating. Individuals with digestive trouble must avoid trigger foods. Processed foods Fiber helps regulate the digestive system. Processed foods are not only low in fiber but also high in salts, preservatives, and food coloring. It makes things difficult for people with sensitive stomachs. Fiber deficiency leads to increased constipation, while the additives cause issues like gas, bloating, indigestion, and acid reflux. Artificial sweeteners Foods and beverages prepared with artificial sweeteners cause a change in the body’s natural gut bacteria. This can lead to gastrointestinal tract problems. Sugar-free drinks, candies, and gums are the best examples. They are loaded with refined sugar alternatives like xylitol, maltitol, and sorbitol, which cause gas, bloating, and other digestive and laxative effects. They can also cause the body to produce more acid than it needs, leading to stomach ulcers. Spicy foods Although spices are believed to help with digestion, they can trigger digestive problems in people with sensitive stomachs. High amounts of spices or heat can cause acid reflux and heartburn. Therefore, avoiding foods that stimulate the digestive tract is essential. Dairy Research has shown that milk and milk products are common inflammatory foods. While dairy is essential, the problem arises when it is made a part of daily meals. Some might not be lactose intolerant, but their stomach presents sensitivity to milk compounds. Prolonged digestive tract inflammation can lead to problems like a damaged stomach lining. People with a condition called eosinophilic esophagitis experience symptoms similar to an allergy after eating trigger foods.

A migraine is a headache that occurs due to changes in the brain and the blood vessels surrounding it. This headache can last from four hours to three days, with the frequency varying from a daily basis to less than once a year. National Headache Foundation has found out that around 37 million people in the country have issues related to migraine. Also, it affects women three times more than it affects men. Causes of migraine headaches The exact causes of migraine headaches are yet not known, but it is believed that it occurs due to the expansion of the blood vessels and release of some chemicals, which results in the occurrence of pain. Two chemicals, namely serotonin and dopamine, have been found to be responsible for the occurrence of a migraine. These two chemicals are generally found in the brain but can result in abnormal functioning of blood vessels. It is, however, known that different triggers ignite a migraine, and different people have distinct triggers, which incite a migraine in them. Foods such as cheese, nuts, and chocolate are the causes of migraine headaches in some people. Others find that missing a meal can result in a headache, which eventually transforms into a migraine. Tension and stress are some other causes of migraine headaches. This stress could be emotional or physical. Symptoms of a migraine The symptoms of a migraine also vary with people. Five distinct phases of a migraine are known now. Prodrome A migraine has many pre-warnings before it occurs. Change in mood, change in sensations, fatigue, and muscle tension are some of the warnings which indicate that a migraine is about to occur. Aura This is kind of sensory disturbance which precedes a headache. Some people see blind spots and feel as if geometric patterns and colorful lights are visible.

Vitiligo is a common skin condition affecting about one percent of the population worldwide. It is characterized by the loss of skin color or discoloration. It commonly begins to appear on the face, arms, hands, and feet, but it can affect any part of the skin. While the condition can affect one at any age, over half of the people with vitiligo notice skin lightening before the age of 20. Signs of vitiligo The most noticeable sign of vitiligo is the patchy loss of skin color. Other symptoms include patches of hair on the body that turn silver, gray, or white, loss of color in the mucus membranes (nose and mouth), and/or changes to one’s eye color. Causes of vitiligo Vitiligo occurs when the melanocytes, or the pigment-producing cells in the body, stop producing melanin or die. While the exact cause of this condition is not known, many healthcare experts believe that it may be a result of an autoimmune condition, a genetic mutation, trigger events such as stress, sunburn, or trauma, or environmental factors like exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation or toxic chemicals. Treatment options for vitiligo Topical treatment for repigmentation Certain ointments may be prescribed to help with skin repigmentation when dealing with non-segmental vitiligo. These options can be used on the affected areas of the skin. One should consult a doctor regarding the frequency of use. Light therapy Phototherapy or light therapy using medical-grade UVB lasers might also be used to restore skin color and reduce the appearance of vitiligo patches. Depigmentation therapy In this line of treatment, the leftover pigment in the skin is removed to match the color of the affected skin and help achieve an even skin tone. Surgery Doctors may suggest surgeries such as skin grafts or blister grafts to cover or treat the vitiligo-affected areas of the skin.

Consuming certain food items increase symptoms of asthma, and sometimes it could lead to a severe attack. Asthma patients do not suffer from breathing problems at all times. Some triggers or factors can suddenly cause an asthma attack. These triggers can also worsen symptoms the asthma patient is suffering from. Therefore, it is necessary to know what you can and can’t eat. Asthma Triggers There are many triggers for asthma attacks, such as pollen, dust, scent, and smoke. Food can also be a trigger causes an asthma attack. Asthma patients need to figure out which food items trigger an attack and avoid them. Some of these items include Sulfites Sulfites are preservatives used in some food products. In some asthma patients, they can act as a trigger for an attack; hence, they have to be avoided. Sulfites are found in food items like pickles, shrimp, wine, dried fruits, bottled lemon juice, and beer. You should avoid any of these food items if they cause a reaction. Eggs Egg allergy is common in children. It can cause skin disorders and breathing problems. Egg and egg products need to be avoided by those who are allergic. However, most children outgrow an egg allergy. Milk Some people find a glass of hot milk comforting in case of an asthma attack. Yet, many asthmatics experience breathing problems after consuming milk. These people may even face difficulties while consuming products made from milk, like cheese or butter. Gas-producing Foods Several food items produce an excess of gas in the stomach, which leads to the stomach puffing up. A bloated stomach puts pressure on the lungs, and this can cause breathing difficulties. Such a situation will be bad for someone who suffers from chronic asthma. Eating light meals is recommended for asthmatics. They should avoid food that causes gas like beans, carbonated drinks, fried foods, cabbage, broccoli, wheat, onions, lentils, and even milk.

Ulcerative colitis, commonly known as UC, is a chronic disease that affects almost 1 million citizens of the country. It is a disease of the colon (large intestine) that inflames the colon lining and the rectum. According to an epidemiological research report, people following a diet consisting of high-fat foods are at a higher risk of suffering from this disease. Also, the Ashkenazi Jews and the Caucasians have the most number of sufferers. Although the exact reason behind ulcerative colitis flares is still unknown, according to many healthcare professionals, this is a result of environmental, genetic and lifestyle factors. Treatments for ulcerative colitis flares Fortunately, a wide range of ulcerative colitis treatment options is available that can help to control UC. Achieving remission and getting UC under control are the main goals of these treatment processes. Immune system suppressors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, inflammation and other UC symptoms controlling steroids etc. are some commonly used medications to deal with ulcerative colitis flares. Removing the rectum and the colon by undergoing surgery is also another process of treatment for UC. However, it is advisable to undergo a surgery only if your doctor suggests and when the medications are not being effective. Other than the medications, many medical research reports have reflected the fact that plenty of natural treatments are available to deal with UC. These nonmedical treatments include everything from herbal medicines to lifestyle changes. Read on and know some effective tips to treat and control ulcerative colitis flares in natural ways. A healthy diet Maintaining a healthy diet is very important while dealing with ulcerative colitis. Various medical studies have shown that people who consume fatty foods are more exposed to this chronic disease. Hence, you need to make your diet chart accordingly. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, etc are some common problems faced by patients with UC.

Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the levels of thyroid in the body decreases. There are two thyroid hormones: thyroxine and triiodothyronine. You can face a lot of problems when the levels of either thyroid hormones are low. When this happens, a change in diet alone might not be enough. However, avoiding and eating certain foods as a part of your regular meals can improve the absorption of these hormones by the body. It is important to eat the right food as it impacts your health directly. Foods have the basic nutrients and minerals that keep the body working. It is the fuel that plays a big impact on how the body functions. The wrong foods can make the situation a lot worse. Nutrition-rich foods have health benefits that can treat thyroid. Foods to Include in a Hyperthyroidism Diet Selenium High amounts of selenium can be found in Brazilian nuts, sunflower seeds, and several other foods. It is required for the enzymes to check if the thyroid hormones are functioning properly. Tyrosine These are amino acids that the thyroid glands need to produce the T4 and T3 hormones. You can find plenty of amino acids in foods like dairy products, meats, and legumes. You can also take supplements for the same. However, it is best to consult a doctor before you do so. Antioxidant-rich Fruits and Vegetables One of the first signs of hyperthyroidism is weight gain. A healthy hyperthyroidism diet will have high-density foods that are also low in calories. Fruits and vegetables are a vital part of this diet. They also help in balancing the weight. You need to consume adequate amounts of these fresh fruits and vegetables every day. Tomatoes, blueberries, bell peppers, and several other foods are rich in antioxidants. They can improve the condition of the thyroid gland and are also good for health.

Tennis elbow is a painful condition in which the exterior of the elbow becomes painful and tender. Medically known as lateral epicondylitis, this condition happens when tendons in the elbow are overburdened by repetitive action of the arms and wrists. In such circumstances, the movement of the arms and wrists becomes difficult and there is a persistent pain in the elbows. However, elbow braces can go a long way to help you manage this condition. Read on to know more about the symptoms and treatment options for tennis elbow and how elbow braces can help the sufferer. Symptoms and treatment options for tennis elbow The usual symptoms include pain while extending the arms fully, pain on the outer part of the elbow which may become worse over a period if not treated, and pain while gripping things and movements of the wrist. A popular treatment method is going for physiotherapy, which involves progressive arm exercises. Rest, cold therapy, and medication are other ways to manage the condition. Wearing tennis elbow braces can be especially helpful. What is a tennis elbow brace and how does it help? Elbow braces are considered to be the most effective way of treating tennis elbow. It helps protect the damaged tendon during the healing process. The elbow brace is gentle and works on injured elbows by firmly compressing the upper forearm. It absorbs the forces spread through the soft tissues, thereby changing the force exerted on the tendon attachment, allowing the injury to heal better. Choose a well-fitting brace and wrap it on your arms properly to resume daily activities soon. How to choose the right braces for tennis elbow Choosing an elbow brace can be confusing as there are a plethora of options available. You can consider the following tips when choosing an elbow brace:

The human body has many immune responses which contribute to the healing process. Inflammation is one such process without which healing cannot be ensured. However, in conditions as rheumatoid arthritis, this can damage the body. Inflammation in the body increases if a diet, that is rich in sugar and saturated fats, is followed on a regular basis. This can lead to pain in the joints, fatigue of the body, and can also result in damage to the blood vessels. The popular foods that fight inflammation include: Fish rich in fats Fish which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, tuna, and sardines are among the popular foods that fight inflammation in the human body. If you eat fish several times a week, inflammation in the body will definitely be under check. People who are not avid fish eaters can also use fish oil supplements which might help in lowering inflammation. The intake of omega-6 fatty acids should also be kept in check if you wish to keep inflammation in control. Whole grains If grains are consumed as whole grains and not as white bread, pasta, and rice, it will help keep the inflammation under check. Whole grains are a rich source of fiber and thus are included in the list of popular foods that fight inflammation in the body. Dark leafy vegetables Vitamins, especially vitamin E, has a key role in keeping inflammation at bay from the human body. If dark leafy vegetables as spinach and broccoli are consumed on a regular basis, this will reduce the incidence of inflammation in the human body and keep the person healthy. Nuts Nuts are also one of the popular foods that fight inflammation from the human body and these nuts have antioxidants in large amount which can cure the inflammation-related problems.

Both our knee joints have a meniscus, which is a cartilage that acts as padding between the femur and tibia. This piece of cartilage can be damaged or torn while performing activities that exert pressure on the knee joints. For people who play games like football, basketball, soccer, and tennis, a meniscus tear is quite common. However, it is not necessary that only athletes get a meniscus tear, just a sudden and careless movement of standing from a squatting position, a pivot turn, or heavy lifting is good enough to cause a meniscus tear. Meniscus tear treatment, of course, then depends on the severity of the injury, which may vary from home remedies to surgery. However, being a little careful while exercising or playing goes a long way to help prevent injury to the menisci. Who is more prone to a meniscus tear? Children, adolescents, as well as aged people, anyone can get a meniscus tear. Children and adolescents can injure their menisci while playing organized or competitive sports. As the meniscus also tends to weaken with age, tears are more widespread in people who have crossed the threshold of 30 years. Someone with weak menisci, weaker and thinner cartilage can even get it injured from squatting or misstepping. People with osteoarthritis are also at a high risk of injuring the knee cartilage. Symptoms of a meniscus tear are many, starting right from pain, swelling, difficulty in movement or bending the knee, knee giving way, and a knee locking and popping sound coming from the area around the knee joint. In case you find any of these symptoms, it’s advisable that you see your doctor. The diagnosis of a meniscus tear is done through various ways like a physical exam, image tests, knee x-ray, MRI, Ultrasound or arthroscopy depending on the condition of the knees and symptoms.

Metastatic breast cancer is also known as Stage IV breast cancer or advanced breast cancer. This is the most advanced stage of breast cancer, where the cancerous cells have spread to the other parts of the body and are no longer present only in the breast region. In most cases of metastatic breast cancer, the cancerous cells have spread to the brain, liver, bones, or lungs. Despite spreading to the rest of the body, it is treated under metastatic breast cancer treatments. Nearly 154,000 people have been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in the US. It has been observed that metastatic breast cancer reoccurs a few years after the completion of treatment for early stages of breast cancer. Thus, a person with a previous history of breast cancer is at extremely high risk of metastatic breast cancer. No metastatic breast cancer treatment ensures a complete cure for cancer. All treatments are aimed at improving the quality and length of life of the patient. The goal of every type of metastatic breast cancer treatment is to slow down the progress of cancer with minimal pain and side-effects. The type of metastatic cancer treatments depends on the characteristics of the cancerous cells, the extent to which the cancer cells have spread, general health of the patient, age, the symptoms of the disease, and previous treatments of breast cancer. Hormonal therapy This type of metastatic breast cancer treatment is used in cases of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. This is usually the first treatment for this type of metastatic cancer. In this treatment, hormone therapy drugs are administered to prevent cancer cells from receiving estrogen required for their growth. Depending on their menopausal status and previous hormonal treatment for early stages of breast cancer, women can choose the type of hormonal therapy they want.

Cancer is a life-threatening condition that typically forms particularly in one area or region of the body and this region is known as the primary site. Cancer cells can travel to other parts of the body, breaking away from its primary site through the bloodstream or the lymph system and is called metastasis. Metastatic lung cancer occurs when cancer cells break away from a tumor formed in the lungs and travel to other parts of the body through the blood or the lymph system. Even though the cancer cells have traveled and spread to a new location in the body, it is still named after the body part from where it all started. It is common for lung cancer to metastasize even before it is diagnosed, as symptoms generally do not show up when the lung cancer is already present. The most common sites of metastasis for lung cancer are the other lung, adrenal gland, bones, brain, and liver. Metastatic lung cancer is very different from recurring lung cancer, as recurring lung cancer affects the same part of the lung after being treated rather than moving to some other parts of the body. A metastatic cancer is always caused by the cancer cells developing in some other regions and traveling to another part of the body. Symptoms of metastatic lung cancer The symptoms of metastatic lung cancer are related to the area to which cancer spreads and these symptoms can be general. These general symptoms are often confused with some other issues. Hence, this condition is very difficult to identify as it does not always cause discernible symptoms. However, we have listed some of the common symptoms which are related to the site where a new tumor has developed: Bones Patients with lung cancer have a 40 percent chance of developing bone metastases which include symptoms such as pain.

Your body consists of good bacteria and bad bacteria. When there is a balance between both, your body is capable of functioning at its optimum. But often due to the onset of an illness or other external factors, this balance gets disturbed. There are times when there may be a shortage of good bacteria in your body, also known as probiotics. These probiotics are important for one to stay healthy. For instance, when you take antibiotics, you may end up losing some good bacteria. Taking the best probiotics on a regular basis can help you to recover from the loss of good bacteria as it helps to replace them. What are the top rated probiotics? There are many different types of probiotics. Following are the top probiotics of 2017. Bifidobacterium There are four strains that come under this family. It is considered to be one of the best probiotics. B. Longum This strain can help in improving your memory power and are capable of increasing your retention power. These bacteria strains also help to relieve you from constipation. This strain can help you to decrease your stress levels as well. They can help with preventing the growth of any bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract that could harm you in any way. It helps to boost the normal functioning of your brain as well. B. Lactis This strain can help improve your immunity by aiding in the proper functioning of your immune systems. B. Breve This is particularly beneficial for children who face constipation issues. It can also be useful for people who are often exposed to the harmful rays of the sun. The reason is that it protects your skin from any type of damage. This is another bacteria strain that is helpful in relieving you from abdominal pain. B.