If you’ve experienced the unpleasant irritation of restless leg syndrome, you know how hard it is to manage. Home remedies for restless leg syndrome are the best option to get you a good night’s sleep. Restless leg syndrome is a neurological syndrome that causes an uncontrollable and irresistible need to move the legs. It is also called Willis-Ekbom disease and the attacks usually occur while the person is trying to sleep. Occasionally, the arms may also be affected but in most cases, this syndrome affects only the legs. Restless leg syndrome can be chronic, with periods of relative ease and no symptoms. Home remedies for restless leg syndrome is a great way to manage this long-term condition. These remedies are often combined with medications and therapy for a more holistic approach to treat the chronic condition. Symptoms Of Restless Leg Syndrome The characteristic symptom of restless leg syndrome is an urge to move the legs due to apparent feelings of discomfort or pain. The strange sensations subside when the legs are moved and resume when the legs are at rest. The sensations have been described as an ‘itch you can’t scratch’ deep in the legs. This symptom can occur with varying severity in different people, from a mild annoyance to cause major disruptions to a person’s life. This sensation is alleviated with movement and worsened with rest. Symptoms typically occur at night and not during the day. Causes Of Restless Leg Syndrome Most cases of restless leg syndrome have no discernable cause. This is known as idiopathic or primary restless leg syndrome. In 20% of cases, the condition is caused by an iron deficiency. Kidney failure is another common cause. This is called secondary restless leg syndrome. Restless leg syndrome also tends to worsen during pregnancy. Treatment for Restless Leg Syndrome The first step to treat a restless leg syndrome is to identify any underlying cause.

If you think a spider has bitten you, it is harmless in most cases, and you don’t need to panic. Spiders are generally harmless and prefer to hide in the dark. They attack when they feel threatened or when exposed from their hiding space. You will not have to worry if you have a spider bite as most of these bites are harmless. Treating spider bites is very simple, and the bite marks can be easily taken care of with timely care and treatment. The first step is spider bite identification. Once this is done, you can go ahead and treat the wound. Why Spiders Bite A few spiders in the wild are known to be aggressive. These spiders are capable of attacking and causing harm. They are the poisonous ones. On the other hand, the non-poisonous spiders often bite as an act of self-defense. They prefer to hide in dark and isolated places. You may even come across harmless spiders in your home and be unaware of it. Spider bites cause itchy red spots on the skin. The spots clear up in a few days, and you will find no sign of it. Most of the spiders have fangs that are too short to penetrate the human skin. While most of the bites are painless, you may experience a sting in some. Spider bite identification is essential as you need to be aware if a poisonous spider has bitten you. The venom from the spider reacts differently in each person. Dangerous spiders can inflict bites and leave unnoticed. It is later that you start feeling its effect. Spider Bite Identification You can identify spider bites in no time. You may not notice it for a few hours, but once you do, you can easily tell. There will be swelling and skin damage on the spot where you have been bitten.

High blood pressure is a hazardous condition that is unfortunately prevalent today. If left untreated it can cause a stroke and heart disease. If your blood pressure reads above 140/90 mmHg, then you have a high blood pressure. The cause for high blood pressure cannot be tracked in some cases. However, you can control it if you follow a strict regime for an extended period. You can control your blood pressure naturally with a proper diet and healthy lifestyle. You will not have to take medications either. By following these suggestions, your blood pressure will be under control in no time. These remedies will also not have any adverse effects on your body. Healthy Body Weight Losing weight is one of the most efficient ways to control your blood pressure. Excess body weight has shown to increase the blood pressure. Sleep apnea is a common condition in those who are overweight. Disrupted sleep can also cause a rise in the blood pressure. Obesity is known to cause stress in the joints and poor blood circulation. It adds stress and affects the blood pressure. Losing weight is the first thing you should do if you are diagnosed with high blood pressure. Exercise Regularly Any physical activity for a minimum of 30 minutes, 4 to 5 times a week will help you reduce your blood pressure level. It is best not to overdo it either as it may have adverse effects. For best results stick to a regime and exercise regularly. However, do not stop with the exercise as it may cause your blood pressure to shoot up again. If you have mild hypertension, you can prevent it from getting worse with a regular workout. On the other hand, if your condition is severe, you can reduce the levels and bring it to a safe level.

Living with pets can be a pleasure. Their company helps you relax and enjoy life as they do, by living in the moment. However, there is always the possibility that you or someone in your family might have an allergic reaction to pets. Common pet allergies symptoms Pet allergies symptoms can affect the respiratory tract and manifest themselves in the form of common cold symptoms. You may also develop allergic reactions on the skin, which is also known as dermatitis if you come into contact with an animal. If you suffer from asthma, pet allergies could also aggravate the symptoms. Regular pet allergies symptoms Sneezing Nasal congestion Runny nose Itchy, watery eyes Facial pain due to congestion Coughing Dark patches under the eyes Dermatitis symptoms caused due to pet allergies Skin inflammation Itching Rashes or hives Pet allergies symptoms in asthma patients Disturbed sleep Chest tightness Breathing problems Wheezing Repeated inflammation of the nasal passage can create obstructions in the sinuses. This increases the chances for bacterial infections like sinusitis. Pet allergies can also be a serious threat to asthma patients. It can aggravate their problems to such an extent that it might need emergency medical attention. Confirm your allergy While a large number of people suffer from pet allergies, cat allergies are estimated to be twice as common as dog allergies. However, there are more pet cats than dogs in American households. If you feel you are allergic to dogs or cats but want to get a pet, you can try spending a day with a friend’s dog or cat. You can spend a day in the company of that animal to see how you react over a period of 24 hours. Get a medical test confirmation You can consult with an allergist who can help you make sure whether you have an allergy to a dog or cat.

Sleep is nature’s way of helping the body rest and recover after a day’s activity. Whether you lead an active or a sedentary lifestyle, your body and the various organs that keep you going have to perform their functions on a daily basis. When you sleep, most of the body’s internal as well as external organs either rest or slow down. It gives the various systems and the organs a chance to rest and get ready for a new day’s activity. If you do not get adequate sleep, it affects the entire system, and you feel tired and dysfunctional. Sleep Disorder Symptoms There are many types of sleep disorders, and their symptoms might differ. However, certain basic symptoms are common to all sleep disorders. These include: Experiencing difficulty in falling asleep at night. Tiredness after waking up. Feeling irritable and short-tempered. Feeling sleepy during the daytime or wanting to take naps. Falling asleep while performing an activity like driving. Forgetfulness. Lack of focus and concentration. Unusual behavior while asleep. Disturbed sleep, having nightmares, and night time fears. Sleepwalking. Slowed down reactions during waking hours. Feeling the need for stimulants like coffee to stay awake through the day. If you experience all or some of these symptoms, consult your doctor. They could be signs of a deeper problem. These could also lead to other problems. Different Sleep Disorders And Their Signs Based on sleep disorder symptoms, there are a number of sleeping problems, four of the most common are insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy. You can also experience Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders under certain circumstances. Insomnia Insomnia is the most common of sleep disorders. One in two people suffers from occasional bouts of insomnia, while a large number of people are victims to chronic insomnia. Common insomnia symptoms are:

Statins are the first type of medication prescribed to bring high LDL cholesterol within normal limits. However, they can have varied side-effects, and even be ineffective, in case your cholesterol problem stems from a genetic disorder. Read on to know about the different alternatives to statins that can help treat high cholesterol. Medication Below are a few alternatives to statins that your healthcare provider might recommend. Bile acid sequestrants Sequestrants bind themselves to bile acid in the intestines and get flushed out of the body via the stool. The liver starts absorbing more cholesterol if it senses a drop-in bile acid content. This entire cycle ends in effective reduction of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Bile-acid-binding medicines include colestipol, cholestyramine, and colesevelam. Ezetimibe The second most recommended form of treatment – ezetimibe, is an inhibitor medicine that has a two-pronged approach to lowering your cholesterol. It first blocks proteins that facilitate the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, decreasing the cholesterol levels reaching the bloodstream. Second, the inhibitors work to reduce the amount of cholesterol available to the liver. This forces the liver to make up for the loss, by absorbing cholesterol from the bloodstream. Together, these effects can successfully lower your cholesterol levels. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Vitamin B3 or niacin is a promoter of good cholesterol (HDL) in the body. It also attacks adipose tissue, ridding it off high triglyceride stores. It does this by inhibiting the synthesis of triglycerides and the secretion of LDL particulates. Although niacin is not as effective as bile acid sequestrants or ezetimibe, doctors recommend Vitamin B3 to regulate blood cholesterol levels and save you from the side-effects of statins. Fibrates Very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) are carriers of triglycerides and cholesterol. Fibrates, which are derivatives of fibric acid, drive the liver to reduce its production of VLDL.

The thyroid is one of the most misinterpreted diseases in human beings. Very few people understand the exact condition when the numeric value of thyroid level showed in blood reports is lower or higher than the prescribed value. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland becomes underactive and is hence unable to release enough thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism is the exact opposite of this. It is the overactivity of the thyroid gland resulting in a rapid heartbeat and increased metabolism. Hypothyroidism is a condition that can happen to any person at any given time of his or her life. However, it has been observed that older people, especially women, are more predisposed to hypothyroidism. A hypothyroidism diet is essential to promote the normal activity of the gland. Indicators of hypothyroidism The thyroid is a small gland located at the base of the human neck. Doctors note that almost 40 percent of the population across the globe suffers from hypothyroidism at some phase of their lives. With age, women tend to become more prone to suffer from underactive thyroid glands. Apart from women, others prone to hypothyroidism include those who have diabetes, celiac disease and rheumatoid arthritis. People notice certain changes in themselves that may not be normal as per their character. The main symptoms of hypothyroidism are: Fatigue or low energy levels Frequent mood swings Disturbed sleep patterns Poor digestion Weakened metabolism Loss of hair Infertility Weak nails Weight gain Muscle tenderness and pain Breathing problems Constipation Cracked or rough skinGoiter Disturbed menstrual cycle Frequent cold or flu These are the initial signs that often indicate towards the disease. If suspected, doctors usually suggest blood tests to the person to substantiate. Hypothyroidism is not a deadly disease that cannot be treated. With proper treatment, lifestyle changes and hypothyroidism diet plans, one can control hypothyroidism and gradually increase the thyroid level in the body.

Regular bowel movements are important. They help clear toxins and waste from your body. They indicate a good constitution and healthy metabolism. Digestion shouldn’t just help your body utilize the nutrients in the food you eat; it should also keep the body free of toxins and functioning at its peak. Constipation However, your body isn’t able to rid itself of waste efficiently when you suffer from constipation. When waste builds up in your body, it takes a toll on your physical and mental health. Whether you suffer from the occasional bout of constipation or chronic constipation, you need to find the right solution. Fiber intake The best solution for constipation is to consume adequate amounts of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion and ensures smooth bowel movements. Fiber is mostly found in plant-based food. Unlike other carbs though, fiber is non-digestible. Fiber doesn’t have any nutrition on its own, but it helps regulate many bodily functions. There are two types of naturally occurring fiber in the food you eat, and both are highly beneficial to general health. These are soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber absorbs water from the food you’ve eaten. It then slows down digestion and helps you absorb nutrients from food. As digestion slows down, so does the breakdown of carbohydrates. It ensures that your blood sugar doesn’t rise too rapidly, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber also helps reduce LDL cholesterol, often referred to as bad cholesterol. Soluble fiber makes you feel satiated for a longer time. It could help fight obesity because you won’t feel hungry soon after. A high-fiber diet is very important if you want to stay healthy. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to your stool and keeps it moving through your digestive tract. It ensures your bowel movements are smooth and relieves constipation.

What is Blood Pressure? Blood pressure is the force that transports blood through our circulatory system. It is a life force which pushes oxygen and nutrients around our circulatory system to feed tissues and organs. Blood pressure is also important because it distributes white blood cells and antibodies for immunity, and hormones such as insulin. The fresh blood that gets delivered also gathers the toxic waste products of metabolism along with the carbon dioxide we breathe out, and the toxins we clear through our liver and kidneys. The heart builds up blood pressure by pumping out blood when it contracts with every heartbeat. Biology Our blood pressure is highest at the commencement of its journey from our heart, and it is lowest at the end of its journey along smaller branches of arteries. That pressure difference is what causes blood to flow around our bodies. The condition of the arteries effect on the blood pressure and flow. What does Blood Pressure Values denote? Measurement of your blood pressure will give two readings. Your blood pressure will have two numbers, e.g., 120/80 mm. Hg. The number which appears on the left-hand side, being the highest number, is called systolic. The number which appears on the right-hand side, being the lowest number, is called diastolic. Systolic blood pressure denotes the highest pressure registered during the time your heart pushes the blood in your body system. Diastolic blood pressure denotes the lowest pressure registered, at the moment your heart rests between beats. Which number is more important? Typically, systolic blood pressure (the left side number) poses the main risk agent for cardiovascular disease for people over 50. In most people, systolic blood pressure rises incrementally with age due to the increasing rigidity of arteries. Blood Pressure Chart The blood pressure chart maps out levels of blood pressure at different times.

The first meal of the day or breakfast is a great way to boost your morning and prepare for a power-packed day. An ideal meal provides all the vital nutrients that our bodies need to carry out our day-to-day activities. Moreover, as our grandmas have always said, not only does breakfast act as a great start to the day, but it also provides a host of health benefits. A healthy breakfast is a boon as it contributes to regulating our sugar levels and also aids in maintaining a healthy weight. Individuals may often miss out on breakfast due to their hectic schedule and the inability to whip up a quick meal after waking up. While an elaborate and healthy spread may be preferable, it does not seem like the most realistic idea. At such times, an energy bar can come to the rescue. It is a quick snack that one can have before walking through the door. However, it is time to stop consuming packaged breakfast bars regularly as they can cause more harm than good. Loaded with sugar and preservatives, these can leave you feeling dull or give you an intense sugar rush. Instead, one should turn to healthy breakfast bar recipes as anyone can create these great alternatives in their kitchen. It will prevent the consumption of chemical additives and save on shelling too much money. What’s more? Many websites have gluten-free breakfast bar recipes that make for an excellent meal to kick-start the day. Here are three tempting gluten-free healthy breakfast bar recipes to try now! Oatmeal and Choco banana bar The oatmeal and choco-banana bar is very delicious and an absolute treat, especially for chocolate lovers. The dish is chewy, soft, and can be wiped up with milk super conveniently. To prepare this tasty oatmeal and choco-banana bar, preheat the oven to 350°F and set aside a square baking tray lined with greased foil.

The Federal Government features a health insurance program under Medicare for people who are 65 years or older and are suffering from any disability or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Medicare is one of the most popular options for comprehensive health insurance. The Original Medicare mainly includes two parts, Part A and Part B, which provide insurance coverage for hospital costs and medical costs. There is an additional insurance cover available from third-party private insurance companies that provide for Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C). One must also note that the Original Medicare and Medicare Part C do not cover medication expenses, which is why Part D Prescription Drug Plan under the Medicare system pays for medical costs. The Original Medicare does not cover premiums for copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles, which is why one must also purchase the Medicare Supplement Plans that provide for these expenses. Medicare Supplement Plans mainly feature 10 policies under the federal health insurance scheme. Plan A to Plan F feature different benefits under the scheme, wherein Plan F is one of the most popular ones. There are many insurance plans that can be mistaken for Medicare Supplement Plans or Medigap policies. The health maintenance organization (HMO) plan, the Prefered Provider Organization (PPO) plan, the private fee-for-service plans, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, Medicaid, Federal Employees Union Health Plans, TRICARE, Veterans Benefits, and other long-term insurance policies do not form part of comprehensive Medicare coverage. Points to consider when buying Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap) The applicant must already have the Original Medicare before he/she can compare and purchase different Medicare Supplement Plans. Plan F is one of the most popular supplement plans for Medicare as it offers comprehensive coverage for health insurance. In comparison to other Medigap policies, Plan F provides better coverage for copayment, coinsurance, and deductibles, which ensure that the out-of-pocket hospital and medical expenses are paid for by the insurance.

Are you facing an acne problem even when you are in your 30s or 40s? Acne has never been just a teen problem. However, it is infamous for affecting young people. These days, various causes like an increase in pollution and rising stress levels have caused a surge in the number of acne cases in men and women. Getting the right treatment can help adults control an acne breakout. What causes acne? Acne is a skin condition that results in blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, pustules, and a lot more. These unsightly blemishes on the skin are most prevalent in teens because of hormonal changes. However, adult acne is also a common problem. Acne is caused by a buildup of excess body oil (sebum) in the skin pores. This sebum is sticky, and so hair, dust, and other particles stick to it, causing raised bumps. The blocked pores can no longer push out the excess sebum or clear the skin of toxins by sweating. So, the dirt accumulates, creating a conducive environment for bacterial infections. Causes of adult acne While acne breakouts mostly reduce once you enter your twenties, you can still get it if your skin pores are blocked. People with oily skin are especially vulnerable because their skin normally secretes excessive sebum. Adult acne can be triggered by: Environmental pollution Hormone fluctuations Using harsh cosmetic products Using creamy, oil-based skin-care products on oily skin Eating a high-sugar diet Not taking good care of your skin Treatments for adult acne One can use medications, light therapy, and home remedies to treat adult acne. Some of these treatment options are: Adult acne medication For adult acne, you may be asked to use the following — topical applications and oral medications. Topical applications Salicylic acid-based creams: These creams give a gentle exfoliation effect, thus removing dead cells.