Proper nutrition is essential when dealing with a chronic condition like arthritis. Every meal is an opportunity to give your joints the much-needed support. Since inflammation plays a significant role in the development and progression of arthritis, it’s essential to start your day with foods rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and nutrients that help reduce pain, swelling, and other symptoms. Here, we’ve rounded up the best breakfast options for fighting arthritis inflammation. Greek yogurt and berries What better way to start your day than with a healthy dose of good bacteria? Greek yogurt is an excellent source of live microorganisms called probiotics, which aid with digestion, help prevent inflammation, and keep you satiated. Top your bowl of plain regular or Greek yogurt with different berries for sweetness, flavor, and, most importantly, polyphenols, which are bioactive compounds with antioxidant-like effects that help stop arthritis inflammation. Scrambled eggs with turmeric Eggs are one of the best sources of protein. They’re also among the few foods that contain high amounts of vitamin D, a nutrient that can curb arthritis inflammation. Another crucial ingredient in this scrambled egg recipe is turmeric, a yellow spice known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to the primary bioactive substance in it called curcumin. Oatmeal with walnuts and berries Oats are whole grains rich in beta-glucans. Beta-glucans are essential prebiotics for certain gut bacteria associated with lowering inflammation. Make sure to top your oatmeal with walnuts and berries. The former slows down digestion and delivers a dose of omega-3 fatty acids to reduce arthritis inflammation, while the latter supplies tons of antioxidants and serves as a nutritious sugar substitute. Pineapple kale smoothie If smoothie is your go-to breakfast option, try this potent anti-inflammatory drink. Both the fruit and stem of the pineapple plant contain bromelain, a type of proteolytic enzyme that helps combat inflammation.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe disease that can cause scar tissue to grow inside the lungs. The abnormal growth of such tissue can slow the flow of oxygen from the lungs to the blood and make it harder to breathe. There is no cure for IPF, but a few treatments can slow its progression and prolong life expectancy. Furthermore, combining these five foods with treatments may also help cope with the lung condition. Apples Eating apples regularly is known to have several health benefits. Improving lung health is one of them. The fruit contains quercetin, an antioxidant that compliments the lungs. Eating about five or more apples a week will help reduce lung diseases like COPD and pulmonary fibrosis. Beetroots and beet greens People who eat beetroots and beet greens have shown signs of better lung function. The food is rich in nitrates, which help calm the blood vessels. The compound is also known to curb blood pressure and smoothen the flow of oxygen to the respective organs in the body. Furthermore, beet greens contain magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and carotenoid antioxidants. These elements also benefit lung health. Pumpkin Pumpkins are a popular fruit abundant in properties like carotenoids, including zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta carotene. These elements have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. And studies reveal that young and older individuals with higher blood levels of carotenoids benefit from improved lung health. Tomatoes Adding tomatoes to one’s daily meals shows links to improved lung function. They contain lycopene – a carotenoid antioxidant associated with better lung health. Furthermore, people with asthma, who consumed tomato-based products, also experienced reduced airway inflammation. The compounds present in tomatoes also improve lung function in people with COPD. Oysters Oysters are a popular food that helps cope with lung diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

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.

An ultrasound machine is a tool commonly known to monitor fetus movements. But it is also used to detect, diagnose, and treat minor and major diseases like gallstones, heart conditions, and cancer. First invented in the early 1900s, the ultrasound machine produces images of the inside of soft tissues by using high-frequency sound waves. Today, it has evolved from a large, bulky machine to a small, portable device. Let’s look at the benefits of portable ultrasound machines. Timely and accurate diagnosis Earlier, patients needed to be moved to the location of the ultrasound machine to get a diagnosis. This would lead to a delay in the initiation of treatments creating stress and anxiety in patients. With the invention of the portable ultrasound machine, there was no need to transport patients anymore. Timely and accurate diagnosis could be provided at one’s doorstep, resulting in speedy diagnosis in patients. It is convenient and reduces wait time for reports, which is extremely beneficial for faster recovery. This machine is also helpful in the Emergency Department, as it is portable, quicker, and uses better technology. Increased patient involvement In today’s time, patients want to get more involved in their diagnosis and treatment options and are willing to expose themselves to the machine’s sound waves. A portable ultrasound machine helps patients understand what they are undergoing and how the treatment plan will help them recover. It makes them more aware of what they are and will experience in the long run. Increased patient involvement reduces treatment time, improves the chances of recovery and patient satisfaction. Reduces cost The cost of ultrasound was quite expensive, as they were not available at every clinic or hospital. Higher demand and reliability are reflected in the patient’s medical bills. Also, trained medical staff need to handle an ultrasound with care, as the cost of replacing or fixing damaged parts is very high.

Asthma is a respiratory condition where the airways narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus. These factors make it difficult for the person to breathe and trigger wheezing and coughing. Apart from treatment and home remedies, people with asthma tend to eat foods that can boost their recovery. But not all foods are suitable, and some may even worsen the condition. Here are seven such foods that may trigger severe respiratory symptoms. Eggs Eggs contain healthy nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals. However, asthma patients prone to egg allergies should avoid them. Egg allergies generally lead to reactions on the skin, such as hives. Eating eggs can also cause inflammation in the respiratory tract and lead to an asthma attack. Soda Soda produces gas, which may apply pressure on the diaphragm. The excessive pressure may make it difficult to breathe, worsening the symptoms of asthma and other respiratory disorders. Bread Bread is a wheat-based product that may also cause allergic reactions because of its gluten content. Those allergic to gluten are likely sensitive to albumin and globulin. These are amino acids that lead to inflammation in the respiratory tract and subsequently cause an asthma attack. Dried fruits Despite their healthy nature, people with asthma must avoid dried fruits. They contain sulfites that keep the food fresh. However, such preservatives may worsen respiratory symptoms in people with asthma. Milk People with asthma should avoid milk or milk-based products. Studies show that milk increases mucus production in the body. Since people with asthma already produce excess mucus in the lungs, milk will only increase their chances of severe respiratory symptoms. Shrimp Shellfish are likely to increase the risk of asthma attacks in people allergic to seafood. Shrimp contains sulfites, a property to which many asthma patients are sensitive. Other seafood options people with asthma should stay away from include clams and oysters.

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.

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.

When the immune system misidentifies and targets good gut bacteria, the cells that line the colon, and food, it can lead to ulcerative colitis. The condition drives the white blood cells to attack the colon lining and trigger symptoms like irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the large intestine. While ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition, adding certain foods to one’s meals and following some treatment options may help manage the condition. Foods for ulcerative colitis Nut butters A good source of proteins and healthy fats, nut butters like peanut butter, cashew butter, and almond butter may help manage any flare-up that may result from ulcerative colitis. Peeled and cooked veggies Peeled and cooked vegetables are soft and contain less insoluble fiber, making them less irritating to the gut. A few foods to consider are carrots, spinach, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes. The vegetables are abundant in nutrients like vitamins A and K, which can help reduce the effects of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a type of ulcerative colitis. Yogurt Fermented foods like yogurt are rich in probiotics that contain healthy bacteria. Such bacteria aid the digestive system and reduce ulcerative colitis symptoms and flare-ups. But one must steer clear of flavored yogurt as its sugar content may worsen symptoms. Salmon Salmon is a rich source of protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These properties are known to curb inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis. Other fish rich in omega-3s include shrimp and tuna. Treatments for ulcerative colitis Ulcerative colitis symptoms can be managed with certain treatment options, such as: STELARA® (ustekinumab) STELARA® is a prescription treatment for children who are six years and older and adults with moderate to severely active ulcerative colitis. Patients injected with the treatment may find quick relief from their symptoms within eight weeks. Entyvio® (vedolizumab) Adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis are given Entyvio when other treatment options do not work efficiently.

A gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) occurs rarely. It begins in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and slowly spreads to the lymph nodes. It usually starts in the stomach. In some cases, the cancerous cells start to grow in the small intestine, esophagus, colon, and the rectum as well. GIST is usually treated through surgery or targeted therapy. To help the healing process, proper nutrition is recommended. Here are a few dietary tips for GIST patients. Consume fresh fruits and vegetables Colorful fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants and cancer-fighting properties. Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, red bell peppers, and so on are nutritious additions to one’s meals. These whole foods are great sources of micronutrients. All of these are essential for strengthening the immune system and improving one’s overall health. Include legumes and whole grains The colon may be adversely affected due to GIST. Whole grains and legumes are rich in fiber, which help the gastrointestinal system function better. Fiber-rich whole foods can also improve the health of the colon. Beans, lentils, rye, quinoa, and other legumes and grains must be included in a GIST diet. Avoid red meat One should limit their intake of red meat. Foods based on red meat can be had occasionally, but it is better to avoid them completely. Fish and lean meat are better options when the protein requirement is high. Low-fat dairy products, eggs, and soy-based foods are also healthier alternatives to red meat. Avoid charred foods Meat, fish, eggs, and any other foods cooked on direct heat can contain carcinogenic substances. This is why it is advisable to restrict the intake of foods cooked on direct flame. It is better to occasionally eat foods that have been cooked using low-temperature techniques. Broiled foods are preferable than grilled foods in the case of GIST cancer. In addition, it is also important to lower the intake of cured and smoked meats, such as hot dog and bacon.

Food plays an important role in managing diabetes. According to several studies, the most severe and chronic diabetes cases and complications triggered by the condition are caused by the excessive consumption of unhealthy foods. These can increase insulin resistance and heighten blood sugar levels in the body. It is, therefore, important to learn about the foods that can worsen the condition. Here are some of the foods that those with diabetes should avoid. Flavored coffee drinks Flavored coffee drinks, unlike regular coffee, are loaded with sugar, carbohydrates, and calories, all of which may lead to an increase in weight and spikes in blood sugar levels. Such complications will eventually lead to a severe form of diabetes and other health conditions, like high blood pressure and cholesterol. Margarine Margarine is used as a healthy alternative to butter because it is low in saturated fats. However, the food contains high levels of trans fats. These fats may trigger inflammation, increase insulin resistance, and reduce the healthy cholesterol levels in the body. White bread White bread is a processed food that is rich in carbohydrates. Studies indicate that foods high in carbohydrates may raise blood sugar levels in those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. They may also affect brain function, especially in those with type 2 diabetes and mental health issues. Sugary drinks Drinks like sodas, sweetened ice tea, and lemonade are extremely high in carbohydrates. These drinks also contain excessive fructose levels. These can influence the body to resist insulin and worsen diabetes. Fruit-flavored yogurt While plain yogurt is suitable for those with diabetes, fruit-flavored yogurt has the opposite effect. Such yogurt is derived from nonfat or low-fat milk with high concentrations of sugar and carbohydrates. So as delicious as fruit-flavored yogurt may taste, one must steer clear of the food to avoid unnecessary spikes in blood sugar and insulin.

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.

Buying a mattress can be confusing due to the sheer number of options available. It is a product that you use daily but cannot purchase frequently. So, you have to make the right choice on the first go. Options only increase the odds of an impulse buy and could land you in potential sales traps. To help you, here are some common mattress buying mistakes you should avoid to get the best deal. Skimping on research There are four types of mattresses, namely memory foam, latex, coil springs with padding, and hybrid. Each bedding style offers a unique comfort level for different sleeping positions. Some are also designed to provide supportive orthopedic comfort. You must compare available options to check what type of bedding is suitable for your sleeping needs. Buying the cheapest one While price is a major deciding factor, consider spending a little more to get a decent product. For example, single foam mattresses with minimal design elements are the most affordable ones to buy. But these mattresses lack the quality and necessary lumbar support for a good night’s sleep. Not trying out the product Go for brands that offer a free trial period. This way, you get to take the mattress home and try it out for a couple of nights before buying. Don’t buy furnishings that you have not personally checked and tested for long-term use. Buying the wrong size Mattresses come in standard, double, queen, and king-size options that are available with most brands. And the measurements for these variants are available online, so it pays to double-check if the mattress will fit your existing bed frame. This won’t matter if you plan to overhaul your bedroom. But, always check to see what size works best for the family bedroom. Not discussing it with your partner Discuss firmness levels, sleeping positions, and most importantly, the type of materials with your partner.