Nutrition tips that help manage epilepsy

Nutrition tips that help manage epilepsy

Living with epilepsy can be challenging and it is essential to know how to manage it better. People suffering from this condition are constantly looking for ways to stay seizure-free. It is believed that a balanced diet that has the right amount of nutrients from various food groups can ensure that the brain and body function normally. So, a diet can help one control seizures and live with epilepsy efficiently. How diet affects epilepsy While no food can trigger an epileptic seizure, a well-planned diet can reduce the risks of seizures by maintaining good health. A balanced diet will give one the energy and important nutrients and better sleep and stamina for engaging in activities. These factors can help one live better; one becomes more positive and develops stronger focus and control to manage the condition. Top nutrition tips for living well with epilepsy When the body metabolizes fats, it produces ketones. So, following a Ketogenic diet forces the body to utilize more fats for energy production instead of glucose or sugar through a diet that increases fat intake and lowers carbohydrate intake. This diet plan can work in reducing seizures amongst kids and grownups suffering from epilepsy. But for this diet to work its magic, one will have to follow it without any breaks. So, the types of food and the respective amounts must be precisely measured. Preparing meals is bound to be a time-consuming affair. However, the diet may not work for kids. The MCT diet or medium-chain triglyceride diet is one where people use an oil supplement for their dietary fat intake instead of getting oil from foods. This is why this diet may be easier since one will be free to eat more carbs and proteins and one can get fewer fats from food. The Atkins diet is a low-carb, high-protein diet plan similar to the Keto diet, with some flexibility in fluid, proteins, and calorie amounts.
Tips to Manage Chronic Endometriosis Pain

Tips to Manage Chronic Endometriosis Pain

Are you or someone you know suffering from chronic endometriosis pain? When the tissues of the lining of the uterus start to grow outside of the uterus, nodules or lesions appear on the nearby organs and tissues causing a severe pain. Well, even though this painful condition affects women both emotionally and physically, there are several ways to deal with severe pain. One of the main symptoms of this aching condition is chronic pelvic pain during, before or after the menstrual period. In our country, it affects around 1 in 10 girls and women between the ages of 12 years to 60 years. Most of the women experience cramping during their period, however, the endometriosis pain is worse than normal cramping. Till date, there is no proper cure for this chronic ache but there are some ways to cope with or to manage the chronic endometriosis pain. Read on to know more about the ways in which you can cope with the severe endometriosis pain. Regular work out If you engage yourself in regular work out, dealing with this severe pain becomes a bit easier. Regular exercise can help in: Maintaining oxygen and nutrient flow to all the body systems Encouraging the blood circulation to all the organs Reducing stress Decreasing the production of estrogen Releasing endorphins, the pain-relieving chemicals Swimming, running, cycling, biking etc., are high-intensity physical activities. Being engaged in such activities on a regular basis will help you to deal with chronic endometriosis pain. Maintain proper diet Estrogen activity, prostaglandin metabolism, inflammation etc., are closely linked to the endometriosis pain and a proper diet can deal with all these aforementioned aspects. Hence, having the right diet is one of the ways of reducing the suffering. Various medical research reports and studies have reflected the fact that the higher intake of green vegetables and fresh foods can diminish the chance of chronic endometriosis pain by almost 40%.
All You Need to Know about Pollen Allergies

All You Need to Know about Pollen Allergies

Pollen is a very fine yellowish powder produced by flowers, trees, weeds, and grasses to help fertilize other plants of the same species. Sometimes, these pollens, when inhaled by people, cause an adverse immune response, leading to pollen allergies. In fact, many people in the country are allergic to pollen. Normally, the body’s immune system guards the body against harmful raiders, such as bacteria and viruses, to keep all illnesses at bay. In the case of people with pollen allergies, the immune system erroneously classifies harmless pollens as dangerous invaders. Consequently, it starts producing a large number of antibodies to fight against pollen. This is termed as an allergic reaction. Pollen allergy is also known as Hay Fever or Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis. What to Do if You are Allergic to Pollen? Once a person has developed pollen allergy, he is quite unlikely to get rid of it. However, there are some remedies that offer pollen allergy relief. Apart from medications, making certain lifestyle changes can also help to manage the allergy symptoms. Here is a complete guide to pollen allergies, along with some effective home remedies that offer instant relief. Different Types of Pollen Allergies Several types of pollens exist in nature. This is the reason why some people experience symptoms when trees are flowering, while others experience symptoms when the grass is growing. People may have an allergy to the following pollen types: Trees such as oak, birch, and cedar Grasses Weeds such as ragweed, tumbleweed, and sagebrush Generally, it is seen that grasses are the most common source of allergy. If you are not sure about which pollen type you are allergic to, you can consult a specialist. This information is particularly important as every plant grows at a different time of the year. Knowing which pollen causes allergy can help you decide exactly when to start taking medications and precautions.
Guide to Choose the Right Shoes for Heel Pain

Guide to Choose the Right Shoes for Heel Pain

A survey conducted in the year 2014 showed that 8 out of 10 American people have some type of complication regarding their feet. The overall stability of one’s health and life depends on the condition of the feet because it is that part of your body that gets used for the most part of the day. The part of feet that carries almost the whole weight of the body is the heel. Heel pain may present itself in two spots: under the heel and behind the heel. Having heel pain can make day-to-day life very uncomfortable while performing daily activities, and shoes play a crucial role here either by adding to the pain or lessening the pain. Thus, wearing the right type of shoes helps a lot while managing heel pain. Certain things should be kept in mind while buying the right shoes for heel pain, which may be overlooked often. Given are few “dos and don’ts” that would prove really helpful when one is looking for shoes for heel pain. Buy the shoe toward the end of the day Feet are that part of the body that get worked up the most throughout the day. By the second half of the day, the feet expand because of all the pressure and may swell after a long day in hot weather. If bought in the earlier part of the day, shoes may fit comfortably in the morning but the same shoe may feel a little tighter and may feel uncomfortable later in the evening. This can lead to heel pain in the long run. The fit of shoes is essential when buying shoes for heel pain. Do not take the measurement on the box as ultimate Many people have the tendency to take the measurement on the box as the sure way of finding the size.
A Guide to Pollen Allergies

A Guide to Pollen Allergies

Pollen can cause allergies and hay fever, and this is a very common problem in the country. Pollen is a powdery substance produced by flowers and trees. Many people show adverse effects when they breathe in pollen. Usually, when a harmful invader like bacteria or virus enters the body, the immune system starts to fight against it. However, some people face a problem whereby their immune system starts attacking pollen when it enters the body, even though it is not harmful. This response is known as an allergic reaction, and the pollen is known as the allergens. Many people face this problem throughout the year while others have to deal with it only during a specific time of the year. Pollen count Pollen count is the level of pollen present in the atmosphere in a particular place. Checking this count is quite useful for the people who suffer from a pollen allergy. Based on the weather condition, the count will vary from place to place. An allergist carries out this test which helps us know the exact pollen count in an area. When you have an idea about the pollen levels outside, you will be able to plan your outdoor activities with ease. Usually, there are three levels of pollen count — low, medium, and high. Sometimes, you can also find detailed information about which kind of pollen is present in the air in a specific area. How is pollen counted and measured? The allergist will place a pollen counter on the top of a building. With the help of these pollen counters, air is collected through different methods available. The allergist will also place a microscopic glass on the top of the building with a jelly-like substance on it. The pollen sticks to the glass because of this substance.
Different Medications for Asthma

Different Medications for Asthma

Today, there are a variety of medicines and treatment options available for treating asthma. They come as tablets, inhalers, liquids, and injections. Most of them come as powder or spray that is to be inhaled into your lungs. Some medicines reduce the swelling in the airways whereas others relax your airways to help you breathe in an easier manner. For each individual, the asthma medications vary according to their condition. Consulting a doctor or a healthcare team will help you to diagnose the best medication plan for you based on your symptoms. Bronchodilators The muscles around the breathing tube are relaxed when bronchodilators are used. It is easier to breathe when the airways are more relaxed and open. There are two types of bronchodilators: short-acting and the long-acting. You will get the relief very fast when you use the former one. Though the latter one’s effect lasts longer, they shouldn’t be used for quick relief. They should be used only by combining it with anti-inflammatory asthma medicine. Anti-inflammatory medicines As the name suggests, these reduce the inflammation inside the breathing tube. These produce mucus inside the airways and also reduce the swelling. When the swelling is reduced, breathing becomes easier. These are also known as corticosteroids or steroids. These asthma medications are to be inhaled. It is recommended to wash your mouth immediately after inhaling them as this may result in a yeast infection in your throat. These corticosteroids also come in the form of pills and are often used for a short period of time when the symptom gets worse. Anticholinergics For a long-term control, these should be taken combined with an inhaled corticosteroid. This category of asthma medications helps in preventing muscle bands from tightening around the airways. A metered-dose inhaler is used for inhaling this kind of medicine.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Seizures

Common Signs and Symptoms of Seizures

Seizures can be defined as significant changes in the brain’s electrical activity. These changes result in noticeable symptoms in one’s body such as jerky movements of the arms and legs or violent shaking. The signs of seizures can range from mild to severe. They should be taken seriously, as even mild seizures may be a sign of a significant underlying medical condition. Consequently, it is important to seek instant medical help if one experiences them. Types of Seizures Broadly, the seizures can be classified into the following types: Non-epileptic seizures These occur as a result of an injury, where the head suffers a major blow. These seizures can be cured with effective treatment. Normally, they do not come back after treatment. Partial seizures Also known as focal, temporal lobe and Jacksonian seizures, partial seizures occur if one is suffering from epilepsy. Epilepsy is a condition that triggers repeated seizures. This type of seizures only occurs in one side of the brain. Consequently, only one side of the body is affected. Generalized seizures These kinds of seizures occur when nerve cells in both sides of the brain fail to function, thus affecting both sides of the body. Such seizures can make one have muscle spasms, black out or even fall. Generalized seizures are further divided into 6 types: Tonic-clonic/grand mal seizures These are the most noticeable type of seizures that can last up to 3 minutes. In this, the entire body stiffens, shakes and the person loses consciousness. It can even lead to breathing problems or loss of bladder or bowel control. Clonic seizures In this, the muscles experience spasms, making face, arms or neck jerk in time. Tonic seizures This is more common in people suffering from epilepsy. The muscles in the arms, legs or trunk tense up, and a result the person loses balance and falls down.
Different Ways to Get Rid Of Boils

Different Ways to Get Rid Of Boils

Boils, also known as abscesses, are basically red-colored bumps that develop beneath the skin. These bumps are not always painful, but as they grow larger and accumulate more pus, the tenderness and pain increase. Also, they do not drain until they are fully saturated. Boils are those kinds of skin infections that initiate at the root of the oil glands or the hair follicles of the skin. Boils can be very painful and warm when touched since they penetrate into the deeper subcutaneous layer of the skin. In case of small insignificant boils, it can be treated at home giving warm compresses. The repeated soakings will drive the pus to the head of the boils and it bursts to release the same. Whatever might be the case; boils should never be pricked with a needle for draining the pus as this can make the infection even worse. Due to infection, the base of the oil glands or the hair follicles and the area of the skin associated with the infection become red. The reddish appearance indicates that an inflammation has occurred. Immediately after, a soft painful coagulum develops from that place. It takes a maximum of 4 to 7 days for the clump to accumulate enough pus and turn white. for those who do not know how to get rid of boils, a hot compress is an effective home remedy. In case the pus does not drain even after applications of repeated hot compresses, it should be understood that the sepsis has metastasized to the deeper layers of the skin. In such a condition the boil is termed as furuncle or an abscess. Causes of Boils There are multitudes of bacteria’s present on our skin’s surface. Some are beneficial for our skin and some are bad. Boils are caused by Staphylococcus that resides on our skin.
Medications for Prevention and Treatment of Migraines

Medications for Prevention and Treatment of Migraines

A migraine is a condition where the person suffers from severe headaches along with a lot of other symptoms. Usually, migraine headaches are accompanied by nausea and photosensitivity. Some people have a sensitivity to sound. What are some medications for migraines? There are two kinds of medications for migraines. Acute medications are designed to control and provide relief from an existing migraine, while the other type is prescribed to prevent the onset of a migraine. Most people who are known to have frequent migraines are usually prescribed preventive medications by their doctors. Acute migraine relief medications There are a wide number of medications for migraines that are available. Some of the drugs used by migraine patients are painkillers and anti-nausea medicines. Ergotamines Ergotamines are generally prescribed to patients suffering from severe migraines. These work by constricting the flow of blood in the head, thereby relieving the person of a headache. These are generally prescription drugs and are not to be abused, as it could lead to serious side effects. These are known to cause serious issues in pregnant women and in people with heart problems. This group of medication has to be used with caution. Triptans Triptans, also known as serotonin agonists, work by blocking the nerve transmitters which transmit pain in the body. The blood vessels are constricted and there is an increase in the serotonin levels. This is effective in relieving the person of a headache. Some of the known side effects of this class of drugs are nausea and dizziness. Some people even reported feeling very drowsy after taking this drug. People who are currently on antidepressants need to mention it to their primary care provider as it can interfere with the triptans and can cause serious harm. Painkillers Painkillers are usually used to provide instant relief from a headache.
Know Your Knees Better with This Knee Replacement Guide

Know Your Knees Better with This Knee Replacement Guide

All of our body parts are necessary to perform several activities, and knees are something without which we cannot move even an inch. Knees are an indispensable part of the body as the knee joints enable us to walk, jump and do everything that we can’t do by being static. Hence, it is of paramount importance that we take extreme care of our knees. However, if you get into a situation that leaves you with a damaged knee joint, you should seek the medical assistance of an orthopedic doctor. If you are not sure whether or not your problem is a serious one, you can go through the knee replacement surgery videos on the Internet to know better about your condition. In a knee replacement surgery, the damaged part of the knee is replaced by an artificial part. Most of the times, doctors try to avoid the surgery by administering medicines to the patient, but if none works, then surgery is the ultimate option. Knee joints can get damaged due to several reasons such as meeting with an accident while doing house chores or getting injured during road accidents or while playing sports. People suffer from knee problems on account of age as well. Aging leads to wearing of cartilages in the knees which makes it difficult to walk. It can be really troublesome when you are not able to walk. For those people who want to know more about such problems, several knee replacement surgery videos on the Internet can help them understand the situation well. If you are also one of those facing knee pains and are concerned about the same, consider adopting the following changes: Weight loss: Most of the people tend to suffer from knee problems because they do not exercise much which makes their body parts habitual to lying static.
What You Should Know about a Sore Throat from Allergies

What You Should Know about a Sore Throat from Allergies

Dealing With A Sore Throat From Allergies A sore throat is one of the most irritating throat problems that cause a lot of discomforts. Most of the time, it is a sign of a cold and fever. A sore throat usually occurs because of viruses. The virus infected sore throat cures on its own, over a few days. What is a sore throat? A sore throat is a condition which causes irritation and itchiness in the throat. It is a painful and a dry feeling that occurs in the throat. Sore throats are generally caused by viruses. It can be treated through home remedies. A sore throat causes scratching and burning sensation in the throat. The symptoms cause a lot of trouble while swallowing. Sometimes, a sore throat can cause fever and swelling of the lymph nodes. In such situations, one must consult the doctors. Causes There are many causes of a sore throat. The most common causes are as follow. Virus There are different viruses which cause a sore throat. These viruses cause colds and other respiratory infections. The viruses responsible for flu and other infections also cause a sore throat. Bacteria A few bacterial infections like strep throat and diphtheria can cause a sore throat. Toxins and Irritants Sometimes, factors like pollution and chemicals are the reasons for a sore throat. Allergies A sore throat can also occur due to allergies. A sore throat from allergies is more irritating than the normal one. It may not be possible to cure the allergy through home remedies. It is necessary to find out the exact cause behind the allergy to treat a sore throat. In case of a sore throat from allergies, post nasal drip plays a major role. The postnasal drip occurs when there is exposure to an allergen.
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.