Endometrial cancer – 3 foods to avoid

Endometrial cancer – 3 foods to avoid

Endometrial carcinoma is a type of cancer, specifically uterine cancer. It is one of the most common type of invasive cancer that develops in the female reproductive system. The condition is said to be more common among post-menopausal individuals. Estrogen imbalance, PCOS, and obesity, are some of the factors that can increase the risk of developing this condition. Besides, there are certain foods that can contribute as risk factors for endometrial carcinoma. Dairy Dairy has been increasingly losing its credibility as a healthy food group. It does not have a clear stand when it comes to dairy and its association with cancer. However, for patients with endometrial carcinoma, it is advised to stay off or at least try to avoid dairy as a regular food group. It is the same for various other types of cancer. The lack of evidence holds doctors and other care professionals from declaring dairy as a complete no-no for cancer patients. However, from the available data, it can be concluded that regular intake of dairy products does increase the chances of developing endometrial cancer because of the high saturated fat content, and the food group’s ability to impact the level of estrogen in the body. Trans and saturated fats Hydrogenated oils are commonly used in the food industry. They are mainly employed to increase the shelf life of packaged and processed foods. However, the increased intake of trans fats in combination with saturated fats on the regular significantly increases an individual’s chances of developing conditions like endometrial carcinoma. This means it is advisable for at-risk patients or patients with a diagnosis to try and eliminate foods high in saturated fat content from their menu. Processed meat Processed meat is one of the most common sources of unhealthy fats, excessive salt, and other combination of chemicals that can negatively affect the body.
6 hidden signs of brittle bone disease in children

6 hidden signs of brittle bone disease in children

Brittle bone disease, medically known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), is a rare genetic disorder that affects one in about 20,000 people. Marked by fragile bones prone to fractures and deformities, the condition often presents a unique set of challenges, and identifying it early in children is crucial for their well-being. While some symptoms of OI are obvious, others are hidden, making early diagnosis a complex task. Here are 6 signs that should prompt one to seek immediate medical attention. 6 signs to look for Blue sclera The sclera is the whites of the eyes. In brittle bone disease, the sclera may appear to be discolored, with a bluish, purple, or gray tint. This is due to the thinness of the sclera, which allows the underlying blood vessels to show through. Dental issues Children with brittle bone disease often experience dental problems, including brittle, discolored, or misaligned teeth and a high susceptibility to cavities. While dental changes are common in children, if a child repeatedly presents with dental issues, it may be a hidden sign of brittle bone disease. Hearing loss Parents should be vigilant if their child exhibits signs of hearing difficulty. OI can also lead to hearing problems, which might not be immediately associated with bone fragility. The bones in the ear can be affected, resulting in conductive hearing loss. Respiratory issues In more severe cases of OI, children may experience recurrent respiratory problems. The fragile rib cage, which may appear to be shaped like a barrel due to OI, can make it challenging for children to breathe properly. Coxa vara This is a type of condition where one’s hip joint looks deformed because the top part of the leg bone has bent down. This deformity can be a sign of OI. Short stature Another less conspicuous sign of OI is a short stature.
5 common signs of myasthenia gravis

5 common signs of myasthenia gravis

Myasthenia gravis is a condition that weakens the voluntary muscles, making them tire easily. It develops when the communication between nerves and muscles breaks down. While there is no permanent cure for myasthenia gravis, treatment can help ease the symptoms. Further, recognizing the signs and seeking an early diagnosis can help one better manage the condition. So, here is a look at some of the key signs of myasthenia gravis: 1. Drooping eyelids More than half of those with myasthenia gravis experience eye-related issues as the first sign of the condition. Here, drooping of one or both eyelids, called ptosis, can be a common sign. One may also experience other symptoms associated with the eyes, like diplopia (double vision), which could make one see dual horizontal or vertical images. 2. Difficulty with speech Speech-related issues could indicate the onset of myasthenia gravis. This could include a hypernasal voice or slurred speech (dysarthria), which is usually observed in younger people diagnosed with the condition. 3. Trouble chewing Difficulty eating or chewing can be a sign of myasthenia gravis. Here, the muscles that help one chew food can tire halfway through a meal. This symptom can seem more prominent while eating something hard to chew, like a steak. Another symptom associated with the face includes a change in expressions; say, a smile can look like a snarl. 4. Breathing issues Myasthenia gravis can cause weakness of the chest wall muscles, leading to breathing problems. Here, one may feel like they are not getting enough air or find inhaling uncomfortable. If one notices persistent breathing issues without any physical exertion, they should consult a doctor. 5. Trouble walking Another common sign of myasthenia gravis is a change in how one walks. As the condition causes weakness in the arms and legs, it could make walking difficult, changing the gait.
All You Need to Know about Signs of Pollen Allergies

All You Need to Know about Signs of Pollen Allergies

All You Need To Know About Signs Of Pollen Allergies Pollens are a yellow, powdery substance emitted by plants. These get transported from one plant to another by birds or by wind or by insects and/or animals. About 10 million Americans get pollen allergies as a result of exposure to this powdery yellow substance. Signs of pollen allergies start appearing when you are exposed to grass pollens, tree pollens, and weed pollens. Common Causes Behind Pollen Allergies Pollen allergies are primarily caused by the exposure to pollen grains in the air. Certain plants and trees like oak trees, ragweed and grasses produce a fine yellow powder, pollens, as a part of the reproductive process of the plants. When these travel through the air, you may come in contact with these pollen grains leading to signs of pollen allergies. Your body has a tendency to produce antibodies to protect your immune system from harmful substances. Chemicals are released in the process in your bloodstream. These chemicals may cause your body to show reactions in the form of pollen allergy signs. Typically, signs of pollen allergies would develop or aggravate during only certain times of the year. Such allergies may be triggered by tree pollens in spring. These could also be caused by grass pollen around summer season and late spring season. Pollens from ragweed may cause you to develop pollen allergies during the fall season. Risk Factors The main risk factors associated with the development of pollen allergies are being in an environment where you get exposed to allergy-causing substances. So, if you are exposed to dust mites or to animal dander, you are at a risk of developing pollen allergies. If you have asthma or any other allergies, you can be more susceptible to pollen allergy symptoms. Even if you have a blood relative with a tendency to develop asthma or other allergies, you can be at a risk of developing the tell-tale signs pollen allergies.
Causes and Treatments of Hemorrhoids

Causes and Treatments of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are responsible for severe swelling or enlargement of the veins in the lower part of the rectum. As we know, the walls around such organs comprise of thousands of blood vessels. A condition in hemorrhoids causes these very vessels to stretch out, leading to an unpleasant and painful experience. Although having hemorrhoids can be a dreadful situation, they can be easily treated with simple ointments, suppositories, and non-surgical options, if and when treated on time. What causes hemorrhoids? The enlargement of veins around the anus can be caused by the following factors: Aging : Such a condition usually occurs among adults aged between 40 to 65 years. This, however, does not mean that it cannot affect people at a younger age. Constipation : Chronic constipation triggers the formation of hemorrhoids due to excessive pressure on the blood vessels. Pregnancy : During pregnancy, the uterus enlarges, which puts additional pressure on the veins, causing them to bulge. Relief from hemorrhoids in such a condition can be incurred by consuming high fiber food like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Heavy lifting : Lifting heavy weights without proper padding and knowledge can trigger the enlargement of veins around the rectum area. Obesity : Diet-related obesity can cause hemorrhoids. Sitting for long periods : Long periods of sitting in one position, especially on a toilet seat, can trigger hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can be of two types: Internal hemorrhoids : These occur deep inside the rectum. They are usually painless, but they can worsen if excessive straining activities are undertaken. They tend to protrude through the anus and are, hence, commonly called protruding or prolapsed hemorrhoids. Such type of hemorrhoids can be very painful. External hemorrhoids : These are visible abruptions and usually occur under the skin around the anus. They are far more painful than internal hemorrhoids due to the presence of more sensitive nerves around the rectum.
Symptoms of Thyroid Problems And Its Indications

Symptoms of Thyroid Problems And Its Indications

The thyroid gland is located just below the Adam’s apple, on the front of your neck. This butterfly shaped gland produces thyroid hormones that regulates the body’s metabolism. Any disruption in the normal level of thyroid hormones in your body, can cause several symptoms associated with thyroid problems. Thyroid Hormone Production Hypothalamus is a section of the brain, that produces various vital hormones. The Hypothalamus secretes Thyrotropin Releasing Hormones (TRH), which travel to the pituitary gland. There, the TRH signals the pituitary gland to release Thyrotropin or TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). The TSH sails through the blood vessels to the thyroid gland, where it boosts the release and production of two thyroid hormones— L-Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The thyroid gland needs an adequate supply of iodine to produce these two hormones. When the body detects that there is a good supply of the thyroid hormones in the blood, the production of TRH and TSH are reduced. This in turn reduces the production of thyroid hormones. Symptoms of thyroid problems occur when the regulatory mechanism of the hormone system is disrupted. Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism Hypothyroidism is the condition associated with the underproduction of thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland slows down and this causes the body metabolism to slow down too. Hyperthyroidism is the condition associated with the overproduction of thyroid hormones. This causes the metabolism to reach high levels.. Symptoms of Thyroid Problems Whatever kind of thyroid problem you have, there are various signs from which you can tell that your butterfly-shaped gland is not doing its job properly. Women are more prone to suffer from thyroid disorders than men. If you are a woman over the age of 35, you should regularly check for the signs of thyroid disorders. Here are some symptoms of thyroid problems: Exhaustion If you feel drained and tired even after a full night’s sleep, your body may not be producing enough thyroid hormones.
Effective Tips to Get Relief from Abdominal Bloating

Effective Tips to Get Relief from Abdominal Bloating

Everybody knows that with abdominal bloating one experiences physical discomforts. When air or gas fills in your GI (gastrointestinal) tract, you experience stomach or abdominal bloating. People suffering from abdominal bloating feel full and tight, and there can be a swollen feeling in the abdomen as well. Pain, flatulence, belching or burping, and abdominal rumbling follows bloating, and this condition reduces the quality of life seriously. The major causes of bloating are chewing gum, eating fast, wearing loose dentures, smoking, IBS, Crohn’s disease, heartburn, weight gain, food intolerance, stress or anxiety, eating disorders, hormonal flux, giardiasis, constipation, visceral hypersensitivity, and altered gut motility. If you’re wondering how to get abdominal bloating relief, the following tips will help. Make efforts to get maximum protection from lactose intolerance and allergies Many people suffer from bloating due to food intolerance and allergies. First of all, you have to seek the help of your doctor to identify the cause of bloating. Self-diagnosis is not at all an advisable practice to follow. When you take decisions without adequate knowledge, you may end up inviting a lot of health complications. If you sense intolerance or allergy, consult with your doctor to identify the cause. The amount of the suspected food can be lowered, or it can be consumed with other foods to reduce the negative impact. If you find that dairy products are causing the problem, you can select yogurts and aged cheeses because of their reduced lactose quantity. These will help in providing abdominal bloating relief. Be cautious about sugar alcohol Various studies show that several people suffer from bloating due to their increased consumption of sugar alcohol. Artificially sweetened drinks and food contain a lot of sugar alcohol, and it makes you highly vulnerable to bloating. Health experts advise people to limit their consumption of artificially sweetened foods and drinks into 2 or 3 servings a day to get abdominal bloating relief.
All You Need to Know about Nerve Pain Relief

All You Need to Know about Nerve Pain Relief

Nerve pain is a condition that affects 7%-10% of the population in the country. It is also known as neuropathic pain and it is a highly subjective experience for each individual. There are several nerve pain relief treatments available, based on the diagnosis. What is Nerve Pain? The nerves in our body help us feel sensations like touch, heat, cold, pressure, pleasure, and pain. When they suffer damage due to disease or injuries, they may send random, inaccurate, or false signals to the pain centers in the brain and spinal cord. Specific Neuropathy Types There are different, specific forms of nerve pain: Trigeminal Neuralgia It is a type where patients experience intense and sudden facial pain due to damage to the trigeminal nerve that controls chewing and sensation in the face. Phantom-limb Pain The person experiences false pain in a missing or amputated limb. Herpes Herpes pain follows an attack of herpes zoster or shingles and can last for months, sometimes even years. Symptoms People with this condition feel stabbing, shooting, burning or crawling sensations, along with other sensations like tingling, numbness, or a feeling of being pricked by pins and needles. Some people experience an electric-shock kind of sensation. People who suffer from this condition are over-sensitive to different sensations like cold, heat, and touch. Even a casual brushing of the skin can cause enormous discomfort and pain. It is usually worse at night. Sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression are commonly experienced by those with nerve pain. Nerve pain is more commonly reported in women especially for patients aged above 50. In other cases, there may be a complete lack of the response to pain even when injuries are suffered. This is commonly seen in conditions like diabetic neuropathy or vitamin B12 deficiency when the person does not feel any sensation of pain although injuries have occurred.
Foods to add and avoid for gastrointestinal stromal tumor

Foods to add and avoid for gastrointestinal stromal tumor

A gastrointestinal stromal tumor begins in the glandular cells present in the body’s digestive system. An accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure the right treatment is provided for this condition. There are several side effects to the treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, and bowel obstruction. All these issues make it harder for a person to consume the required amount of food in the day. To ease this problem for those dealing with GIST, we have put together a list of foods you must eat and those you must avoid. Foods to add to your diet for GIST Cruciferous vegetables These vegetables are rich in vitamins, fiber, and folate. They are also popular for their cancer-fighting ability. Cruciferous vegetables should be consumed for every meal. Broccoli, Brussel sprouts, kale, cabbage, etc., are a few of the many cruciferous vegetables you can consume. Fruits Fruits are delicious, healthy, and full of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These provide roughage for the colon, is light on your stomach, and has anti-cancer effects. Apples, bananas, and oranges are healthy for those with GIST. Probiotic foods Your body can benefit from probiotics in many different ways. They can reduce diarrhea, IBS, and overall digestive health. Yogurt, kefir, and buttermilk contain probiotics. Omega-3 rich foods Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial to your body. Flax seeds, chia seeds, fatty fish, walnuts, etc., contain omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential vitamins and nutrients. Foods to avoid for GIST Red meat Red meat contains more saturated fats and chemicals that can affect the bowel cells. You can consume leaner proteins like chicken, eggs, beans, and salmon instead. Baked goods Baked goods contain too much sugar and saturated fats, harmful for people dealing with cancer. Salt Everything, including table salt, salt added to your food, and other salty foods like chips and canned food, should be eliminated from your diet.
Common warning signs of poor blood circulation

Common warning signs of poor blood circulation

Blood is the essential component that keeps all the systems ticking within the human body. Blood circulation facilitates the transportation of oxygen and nutrients to all the vital organs of the body. Certain factors, such as high cholesterol and dehydration, can slow down a person’s blood circulation, causing a range of health issues. One can detect blood circulation issues through certain symptoms, and some common warning signs of poor blood circulation are discussed below. Unusual skin changes Several blood vessels are present directly under the first few layers of one’s skin. Therefore, the first warning signs of poor blood circulation are often felt on the skin. Some of the changes one feels on their skin are twisted, bulging blue varicose veins appearing on the legs and ankles. This happens when a valve within a given vein fails and causes disruption in blood circulation. Apart from that, the appearance of blue skin on the lips, nose, hands, ears, and feet is also caused by stunted/slowed-down blood circulation. Tingling sensation in hands and feet This condition, known as pins and needles, is a direct result of poor blood flow. One may have experienced this directly on their palm after sitting on their hand or laying on their arm for too long. Tingling sensations are caused when too much pressure does not allow blood to flow to certain areas of the body. The hands and feet are technically the farthest points of the human body, so if someone has blood circulation issues, then they are likely to experience tingling in these parts of the body. Slow healing of wounds Wounds heal when the blood flows into the affected area and supplies it with the requisite oxygen, nutrients, and white blood cells to heal quickly. When a person suffers from blood circulation issues, their wounds do not get a proper and quick supply of blood, causing their wounds to heal slowly.
Lupus – Common symptoms and treatments

Lupus – Common symptoms and treatments

Lupus is a long-term autoimmune disease associated with inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues. The inflammation here results from the immune system attacking healthy tissues in the body after mistaking them for harmful invaders. Genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, high exposure to UV light, and stress are some common issues that trigger the condition. Knowing its symptoms and available management options can help one get a prompt diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms The most common form of the condition is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which tends to affect multiple body parts and cause discomfort in those areas. Joint pain Pain or swelling in the ankles, wrists, and knees can develop due to inflammation in the lining of the joints. This also causes tenderness, stiffness, and aches in the joints as well as muscle pain and poor balance. Fever and fatigue Lupus may cause a high fever (over 100°F). This may make one feel fatigued without engaging in any physical activity. The persistent exhaustion may also make one take frequent naps during the day. Skin issues A telltale sign of lupus is skin rashes, especially butterfly-shaped ones (called malar rashes) across the cheek and nose. Depending on the skin tone, the rashes may be dark purple, brown, red, or pink. Additionally, fingers and toes can turn pale or purple when feeling cold or stressed. The skin may become more sensitive to sun rays or bright lights. Chest pain When dealing with lupus, one may find it difficult or painful to take deep breaths. This phenomenon is called pleurisy. Hair loss, seizures, mouth and nose sores are other common lupus symptoms. Treatment options Lupus is usually diagnosed with the help of a combination of tests—biopsy, imaging tests, urinalysis, kidney and liver assessment, and complete blood count. The tests also help confirm the severity of the condition, based on which treatment is determined.
Popular treatment options for hemophilia

Popular treatment options for hemophilia

Hemophilia is a severe medical condition in which the blood doesn’t clot as it normally should. The bleeding disorder is usually inherited and identified by painful symptoms such as excessive bleeding, joint pain, and deep bruises. After diagnosis, in which the doctor focuses on clotting-factors, a treatment plan is laid out and must be followed to avoid unnecessary complications. Read on to know more in detail. How is hemophilia treated? Different types of this condition are treated in different ways. The most common ones include: Desmopressin The medication is commonly used in the treatment of mild hemophilia A and von Willebrand disease. The vasopressin works by increasing the plasma concentration of factor VIII, which is one of the clotting factors in the blood and whose deficiency is the reason behind hemophilia A. Desmopressin dose varies from one patient to another and comes in the form of both injections and nasal sprays. Nonacog alfa Hemophilia B is the second form of the wider condition, wherein clotting factor IX is absent in the patient’s blood. Doctors treat the ailment by injecting a purified protein called nonacog alfa. The medicine approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1997, temporarily corrects the deficiency, thereby reducing excessive bleeding. Fresh frozen plasma There are different ways to treat hemophilia C. Fresh frozen plasma is one of the most popular methods since one unit of this blood product contains all the coagulation factors. Factor XI deficiency is the defining cause of this form of ailment, and using fresh frozen plasma can help lower symptoms like prolonged bleeding. Hormone therapy is another useful treatment method for hemophilia. Fibrin sealants Fibrinogen and thrombin are the main components of this material. It is used as a hemostatic agent, and was first approved in the country in 1998.