Things You Should Know about Bone Density Tests

Things You Should Know about Bone Density Tests

As we age, our health gets worse and the list of medical tests we need to determine our current condition of health grows longer and longer. At times we tend to skip our tests because of our busy frame of mind, or because we think that we do not need them. When it comes to a bone density test, one should get the test done every few years. A bone density test is vital in determining the strength of our bones. The test is also called a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry or DEXA scan. It helps us determine if we are suffering from any bone loss that can lead to disabilities and fractures in the future, giving us an overview of our overall bone health. Bone density and bone health tests should not be skipped as they can help us determine the condition of our bones. Most men under the age of 70 and women under the age of 65 do not require the test, but this does not mean we should skip it altogether. Here is all one needs to know about the bone density test and why one should get it done today. What is a Bone density Test? A bone density test enables doctors to diagnose brittle bones and help us seek appropriate treatment measures. Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become so weak that they are at the point of breaking. A bone density test is used to determine the risk of the above-mentioned disease and fractures. It also enables doctors to put a treatment plan in place for the underlying condition. How is a Bone Density Test Performed? A bone density test is a painless and simple procedure. A patient is made to lie on a padded table with an X-ray generator positioned right underneath the patient, and an imaging device just above.
Know More about Fibromyalgia Tender Points

Know More about Fibromyalgia Tender Points

Fibromyalgia is the second most common disease in the country that affects the muscles and bones. The most common symptoms of the disease are feeling fatigued for no apparent reason and extreme pain in the joints. One of the main problems of this disease is that you may or may not know that you are suffering from the disease. The disease is poorly understood and identified by the masses. There is no specific test to determine whether you are suffering from the disease. The disease has no cure and its symptoms can be managed through treatment and by bringing about certain changes to your lifestyle. If you are suffering from the symptoms of the condition, make sure to visit a doctor immediately. Immediate treatment can help you effectively manage the disease. There are certain areas on the body that appear to be tender for those people who are suffering from the condition. These are called fibromyalgia tender points. What are fibromyalgia tender points? When suffering from fibromyalgia, there are certain areas on the body that become painful when pressure is applied to them. These areas are referred to as fibromyalgia tender points. While fibromyalgia tender points are also referred to as trigger points, they are not essentially triggered points. Trigger points can cause other parts of the body to pain when pressure is applied to them. For example, if pressure is applied to your elbow, you may feel pain in your hand. Some people may have trigger points and fibromyalgia tender points at the same time. Here are a few of the most common fibromyalgia tender points on the body. Be aware of these points and visit a doctor if you are feeling pain in these areas. It could be a sign that you are suffering from fibromyalgia and your doctor may prescribe medications.
Things You Need to Know about Eczema

Things You Need to Know about Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition where some patches of skin get inflamed and become itchy, sore, rough, and cracked. In some cases, blood blisters may also occur. Eczema is not a single condition, but a group of conditions that include atopic dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, contact dermatitis, hand eczema, neurodermatitis, stasis dermatitis, and nummular eczema. This is a frustrating skin condition, where some people experience symptoms a few times a year while some deal with it on an everyday basis. Finding a soothing, natural eczema treatment can be life-changing for people suffering from this exasperating condition. Some facts on eczema Certain food items, such as dairy products, nuts, etc. can trigger eczema symptoms. Symptoms generally vary with a person’s age; however, most common symptoms include red and itchy patches of skin. A lot of times, eczema can be triggered by environmental factors such as dust, smoke, and pollen. There is no complete cure for this skin condition. The best eczema treatments focus on soothing damaged skin and relieving the symptoms. This is not a contagious condition. Symptoms of eczema The symptoms of eczema range from mild to severe, and can change from one outbreak to another. Common symptoms include: The appearance of small bumps that may ooze out liquid Rough, dry and scaly skin that cracks Red or brown patches of skin on the face, hands, feet, wrists, neck, eyelids, ankles, upper chest or scalp Sensitive skin that gets swollen and inflamed from scratching A rash that causes intense itching and irritation Rashes due to atopic eczema Best eczema treatment options There is no complete cure for eczema. The treatment for eczema aims to heal the inflamed area and prevent the symptoms from flaring up. Generally, eczema rash treatment is based on the patient’s age and symptoms. Also, for some people, eczema goes away over time, while for others, it is a lifelong condition.
The Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

The Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

The food we consume every day mostly consists of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. However, there are other essential organic and inorganic constituents, which are equally important for our health. Vitamins are one such organic component of food. Although we only need to include minute quantities of these in our everyday diet, they play a significant role in maintaining an individual’s growth and metabolism. Any person’s healthy appearance comes not only from energy-yielding proteins, carbohydrates, and fats but also from other components like vitamins, minerals, and water. Sources of vitamins Vitamins are a protective food that is essential to ensure that the human body functions normally. Vitamins are crucial since they cannot be synthesized in the human body. Therefore, whenever there is disequilibrium in its quantity, one needs to take supplements to ensure a balanced intake. Since plants can synthesize vitamins, animal foods like meat, fish, eggs, liver, and milk can be a good way to replenish a vitamin imbalance. When humans eat animals that feed on plants, vitamins are transferred to the human body. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, cannot be found in foods of plant origin. Animal-based foods are an abundant source of this vitamin. Vitamin B12 that is synthesized by the intestinal bacteria in humans is not enough to meet the daily requirements. In such cases, vitamin B12 supplements are a lifesaver. Kinds of vitamins Vitamins are of two types, fat-soluble and water-soluble. The B complex groups of vitamins like thiamine, niacin, folic acid, riboflavin, cobalamin, riboflavin, and biotin are water-soluble. Hydroxycobalamin, chlorocobalamin, cyan cobalamin, and nitro cobalamin are few active forms of vitamin B12. Functions of vitamin B12 All vitamins which are a part of vitamin B-Complex act as coenzymes and vitamin B12 is no exception. Vitamin B12 acts as coenzymes in different chemical reactions in the body, in the form of cobamide, which is involved in the formation of DNA.
7 Herbs that Naturally Increase Testosterone levels

7 Herbs that Naturally Increase Testosterone levels

Testosterone is a steroid hormone which is the main sex hormone in men. But females also have a small amount of it. These are produced in men’s testicles, and for women, it is in their ovaries. A small amount of testosterone is also produced by adrenal glands. The physical changes that experienced in boys during their puberty phase like the change in voice, hair growth, and muscle development are due to the testosterone hormone. Having an optimal level of testosterone during adulthood and old age is vital. Healthy levels of testosterone in adults are important for their body composition, sexual functioning, and for avoiding risks of diseases. In addition to that, increasing the testosterone levels helps you to gain muscle mass and vitality within weeks. Testosterone plays an important role in the well-being of female sexual and physical health. Making your endocrine system work properly helps in optimizing the performance and maintain a healthy sex drive. Following are some of the recommended herbs to increase testosterone levels naturally and to maintain a healthy endocrine system. Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus Terrestris is the most common herbs that help increase testosterone levels. It is found in almost all the supplements that are designed to boost the men’s hormones and increase the sex drive. Studies have shown that Tribulus increases the body’s production of luteinizing and follicle stimulating hormones. These hormones signal the testicles to produce testosterone. DHEA, another powerful androgen and precursor to testosterone, is also produced dramatically by Tribulus. Pine Pollen Unlike other herbs, this one increases the testosterone levels directly. Pine pollen is the only herb that provides the body with an externals source of testosterone and other phyto-androgens that supplement the body’s own production. It comes in powdered, tincture, and capsule forms. Among these, the tincture form is the most efficient and powerful in giving increased levels of testosterone.
Top Treatment Options for Pityriasis Rosea

Top Treatment Options for Pityriasis Rosea

Home Remedies and Medical Treatments to Cure Pityriasis Rosea There are several infectious diseases that make us their host on account of our negligence. One such disease is pityriasis rosea, which is a viral health condition that leads to the occurrence of rashes on the body. It is usually faced by individuals falling in the age group of 10-35 years. Most of the times, the rashes disappear on their own in 6 to 9 weeks. However, the root cause of this medical problem is not known. The maximum time that a person can suffer from pityriasis rosea is 12 weeks. Sometimes, it can be followed by a flu-like situation as well. Once a person suffers from the disease, there are high chances that they would not fall prey to the same condition again in the future. People who are looking for pityriasis rosea treatment for themselves or others should first consider relying on home remedies. The following home-based treatments for pityriasis rosea can be of great relief: Aloe Vera The antimicrobial properties of aloe vera can be significant to deal with the germs present on the body, which ultimately leads to faster cure of the disease. For better and faster results, apply aloe vera three times a day on the affected area. Avoid Hot Showers A person suffering from pityriasis rosea must be kept away from excessive heat as it can cause itching around the rashes. Hence, the patients must be aware that they must not take bathe in a hot shower or a bathtub. Coconut Oil Dry skin leads to itching and if the person is suffering from pityriasis rosea, and it only worsens the condition. Applying coconut oil moisturizes the skin and prevents itching. Lotion for Inflammation Rashes caused by pityriasis rosea often set about inflammation, which is worsened by itching.
9 Foods to Consume for a Healthy Heart

9 Foods to Consume for a Healthy Heart

We all like living a healthy and happy life, and for that, we have to keep our body and health in good condition. One of the most important organs in the body is our heart. A healthy heart is indispensable for living life to the fullest. Apart from exercising daily, dietary habits are equally important to keep the heart healthy. One can include the following food items for a healthy heart in their diet as it will improve their overall health and not lead to any side effects. Following are some food items that are indispensable to a good and healthy heart. You must try and opt for the organic variants of these foods, if possible: Oatmeal: Gym-goers often opt for oatmeal because of its high protein content, and at the same time, it is also a good option for those people who want to keep heart-related problems away by staying fit. It is rich in soluble fiber which lowers the risk of cholesterol significantly. One can either add some sugar or salt to it or use some other spices for flavor. Berries: While most people know that blueberries are amongst the few food items that promote a healthy heart, only a few know that other berries like raspberries and strawberries are equally good. Consuming blueberries on a regular basis lowers the risk of heart-related problems by more than 30% in comparison to those who don’t consume berries at all. Dark chocolate: Most of us like eating chocolate. Only a few stay away from it, and that too, because of medical reasons. However, everyone needs to know that dark chocolate is good for the health of the heart. Dark chocolate has flavonoids called polyphenols which aid in maintaining regular blood pressure levels and prevent blood clotting. However, other types of chocolates such as milk bars do not provide the same benefits.
Top Home Remedies for Impotence

Top Home Remedies for Impotence

Impotence, or what we know as erectile dysfunction, is no longer a new concept. Today, one out of five men faces this problem. Erectile dysfunction is one of the most serious concerns prevailing men across the globe. However, it can be treated with special elements which work as impotence home remedy. Erectile dysfunction or sexual dysfunction is the inability of males to either develop or maintain an erect penis. This inability, in turn, results in non-satisfactory sexual intercourse, or none at all. Currently, the rate of erectile dysfunction in the male population is one in five; however, as the aging process progresses, the rate and chances of erectile dysfunction increase further. A study carried out in the country shows that there are around 30 million men affected by erectile dysfunction. Symptoms of Impotence There are two main symptoms of impotence. An erection that is too soft or brief for sexual intercourse Lack of ability to achieve an erection Home Remedies for Impotence Medical science is in full swing to treat this rising concern of men. Apart from the pursuit of a medical cure, there are also some home remedies that can be implemented to alleviate impotence. Here are some of the best home remedies for dealing with impotence. Garlic When looking home remedies for impotence, one of the most natural ingredients that help with the condition. Research conducted on the topic reveals that allicin present in garlic helps in improving the flow of blood. Allicin is one of the components of garlic which deals with erectile dysfunction by improving the blood flow in the penis. Additionally, garlic offers some protection from damage arising out of testicular oxidation and sperm toxicity. You can chew three to four garlic cloves per day. Continue this practice for the next 3 to 4 months.
Best Options to Treat and Prevent Shingles

Best Options to Treat and Prevent Shingles

Shingles are one such viral infection that could cause a severe rash. This viral infection is caused by that virus which is the sole reason for causing chickenpox as well. When you had chickenpox in your childhood, the virus varicella zoster will stay dormant inside your body. However, this virus could get reactivated later in your life that will inevitably cause shingles. Although you will feel pain in the first few days of developing shingles, later on, the fluid-blisters and rashes will also become evident. There are various medicines available in the market that could really help you to treat shingles. Therefore, have a look at the medicine that you could use in order to treat shingles. Antiviral medication Antiviral medications are one of the more effective shingles medications that you can use in order to treat shingles. You need to take them within the first 72 hours from when you start getting the symptoms. These medicines will also decrease your chances of facing complications later on due to shingles. Antiviral medications will generally slow down the growth of the virus and by doing so will reduce the symptoms of shingles. There are various shingles medications available in the market out of which some your doctor may prescribe for you depending on the severity. A detailed discussion about the side effects of such medications is needed though. Pain Killers When you have shingles, one thing you can be assured and that is, you will have pain. Therefore, you may need the help of the painkillers which will help you reduce the pain. Taking painkillers is not a good option, but when you face the excruciating pain from the shingles, you would have to opt for one. Even your doctor may prescribe one for you. Although these shingles medications are not that a great option to opt for, yet they are worth a try.
Causes and Treatments for Nerve Pain in the Feet

Causes and Treatments for Nerve Pain in the Feet

The tingling sensation that you are having on your feet could be an early indication of something serious in your body. Most people at some point in their life will experience this numbness on their feet which at times could become really painful. One reason that could seem quite trivial is sitting at the same posture for too long. However, this feeling will fade away after some time if the sitting posture is the reason behind it. If the tingling in your feet is persistent, you should know that it could be the indication of the following concerns: Diabetic neuropathy Your diabetes could be one of the reasons for that tingling sensation on your feet. High-blood sugar damages your nerves, and as a result of that, you get nerve pain in the foot. Symptoms Extreme thirst Frequent urination Itchy skin Dry mouth Numbness or pain in your feet and hands Breathe smelling fruity The unexpected loss of weight Increased hunger Yeast infections Very slow healing of sores or cuts Lethargy or drowsiness Nausea or vomiting Changes in vision Treatment The doctor will do a complete medical check-up of your body and look at your medical history. He or she will also run blood tests in order to determine the exact cause of this tingling sensation on your feet. Then the doctor will recommend lifestyle changes and medications like insulin that will help you to fight diabetes. Pregnancy Many women feel the tingling sensation in their feet during their pregnancy phase. When the size of the uterus increases, it will put some pressure on your nerves which goes down the leg and feet. This will cause a sensation of “pins and needles.” Treatment Keep your feet up while resting Change your posture from time to time Drink plenty of water so that you stay hydrated If this tingling on your feet during the pregnancy period persists and also cause swelling and weakness of your feet, then you should consult with your doctor in order to ensure that there is nothing to worry.
Everything You Need to Know about a Ministroke

Everything You Need to Know about a Ministroke

A stroke is a condition that occurs when a part of your brain gets limited or no blood supply. At such a time, your brain is deprived of oxygen and other vital nutrients it needs to function normally. In just a few minutes, the brain cells start to die. What is a ministroke? It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. The sooner a patient gets help, the lesser will be the damage caused by the stroke. However, one can prevent and treat strokes these days. Symptoms of a ministroke One needs to watch out for a few signs. If you manage to identify it in the early stages, you can prevent the damage from getting worse. By being aware of these symptoms, one can tell if anyone around them might be having a stroke. The time frame inside which one needs to identify the condition is crucial for proper treatment. Difficulty in speaking You may experience sudden confusion. It may result in slurring words and trouble with speech. This is one of the most common symptoms that victims of a ministroke exhibit. Numbness and paralysis A patient may experience sudden weakness or numbness in their leg, arm, and face. It generally occurs on only on one side of the body. One needs to try and see if they can raise their arms above the head at that time. If they find one arm falling, they might be having a stroke. One side of the mouth might also droop when they try to smile. Difficulty in seeing There are high chances that a patient may experience blurred vision suddenly. A patient may also have blackened vision. Some patients also see double when they have a ministroke. A headache A severe headache may occur. Other symptoms of a ministroke that come with this are dizziness, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
Effective Remedies for Peyronie’s Disease

Effective Remedies for Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease is caused by repeated injury to the penile region either during sex or other activities. In this condition, a fibrous scar tissue is present inside the penis that causes it to bend in a particular way such that it makes the erection very painful. However, it should not be confused with other types of erections, such as a curved erection. Not all types of curved erection lead to the development of Peyronie’s disease. Men who face this disease may face trouble having intercourse. However, there are different types of treatment options and remedies available for treating Peyronie’s disease. Some of the popular remedies have been listed as follows. Remedies for Peyronie’s disease With certain treatment options and proper and timely consultation, one can manage Peyronie’s disease effectively. The following pointers are some of the most commonly recommended remedies for this condition. Use of medicines A doctor may recommend certain kinds of medicines for managing the symptoms of Peyronie’s disease. The medication will aid in breaking down of any build-up of collagen in the penis. This will help in straightening the penis to an extent. Iontophoresis Iontophoresis is yet another of the recommended Peyronie’s disease remedy option. This is a process by which an electric current, which is weak in nature, helps in delivering the medicines through the skin. This also helps in controlling the curving of the penile muscles, thus helping in straightening it even though for a short duration. Changes in lifestyle Doctors often recommend certain changes in one’s lifestyle of the patient as a remedy for Peyronie’s disease. The disease in various cases has been observed to be the result of an erratic lifestyle. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with occasional cheat-days is often advised by medical professionals. This is a small step which can go a long way if followed sincerely.