Hair loss can be psychologically scarring for many. It can affect your self-esteem and make you feel underconfident. A full head of hair is a coveted ideal, one that most cultures value very highly. Hair loss can occur due to changes in hormone levels, medications, and bad genes. The most common form of hair loss is due to aging. Although it is perfectly okay for older men and women to experience hair loss, many younger people, when faced with the same issue, look for treatments to counteract the hair loss. The next most common reason for hair loss is hereditary. If your family has a pattern of people losing their hair early, then chances are that you too will face the same problem. One of the most permanent and effective methods of restoring your crowning mane is hair transplant surgery. What is Hair Transplant Surgery? Hair transplant surgery uses the hair you already have to fill in areas of your scalp that are thinning out. This surgery has been around since the 1950s, even though the actual procedure has changed with developing medical science. There are two methods for hair transplant surgery. Follicular Unit Strip Surgery (FUSS) In this type of surgery, a strip of skin from the back of your head is removed by the surgeon. This area is known as the donor site. The strip is then divided into hundreds of tiny grafts each containing one hair strand. These micrografts must be frozen to maintain the structural integrity of the hair follicle. The surgeon then makes tiny incisions on your scalp and inserts these micrografts. Once the tissue heals, the transplanted hair will grow naturally. You will recover from this surgery within two weeks. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) In this surgery, individual grafts of hair follicles are harvested from the donor site.

Bags under the eyes are one of the signs of aging. They are an abnormal bulge of the fat pads appearing on the skin of the lower eyelids. When these fat pads swell, they cause the skin to protrude giving rise to bags under the eyes. You can recognize bags under eyes when you have a swelling and puffiness under the eyes. They are mostly seen among elderly people. Do not worry if you have bulging pouches on your lower eyelids. It is not a grave medical condition. However, it might become a cosmetic condition as one would feel conscious about their appearance. Know the symptoms Have you noticed sagging skin under your eyes? It means you are experiencing the problem of bagginess. Also, you may have itching, pain or redness under the eyes. The bulging of fat under your eyes may appear and then go again at an irregular interval. However, it is neither malicious nor causes health problems. Understand the causes Some of the factors that contribute to the formation of eye bags have been listed (in no particular order) as follows: – With age, the muscles and tissues associated with your eyelids weaken and the skin starts to sag. Fat around the eye advances to the area below your eye. Moreover, fluid can gather in the area below your eyes making it look swollen or puffy. – On hot and humid days, the fluid remains in the body system instead of flushing out. – Hormone levels. – Consuming salty foods. – Skimping on sleep. – Allergies or inflammation of the skin. This happens particularly if redness and itching occur along with puffiness. – Heredity. – Alcohol and tobacco may cause stress, tiredness, and hormonal changes. All these may culminate to fluid retention and swell around the eyes.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disorder which was earlier referred to as adult-onset or noninsulin-dependent diabetes. It affects the metabolism of glucose or sugar in the body. Glucose is the major source of energy for our body. Currently, in America 29.1 million people have diabetes. However, as large as 8.1 million of them are yet to be diagnosed and are unaware of their disorder. Every year the strength of this group of patients increases by about 1.4 million, becoming one of the most common health issues faced by the entire nation. Insulin is a hormone produced by our body that maintains blood glucose levels by regulating its movement into cells. When having adult type 2 diabetes, our bodies become inefficient in managing the glucose levels in the body. It either produces an inadequate amount of insulin leading to an excess level of glucose, or the body resists the function of insulin. Symptoms and signals Type 2 diabetes, unfortunately, does not manifest early. The symptoms show up slowly; sometimes it takes a few years to realize a diabetic condition. The following are common signs that you should not ignore since they could indicate failing insulin function. High urination frequency Increased appetite or frequently getting hungry Loss of weight Tiredness and fatigue Vision blurring Incurring frequent infections Sores taking long time to heal Skin darkening Treating Adult Type 2 Diabetes Blood sugar levels can be kept in check with regular monitoring and controlled diet. Although, in case of severely high blood sugar levels, medication and therapy involving insulin injections are required. Consult your doctor for understanding what is the best-suited medication for your condition is. Most common treatment options for adult type 2 diabetes have been listed below. Sulfonylureas Sulfonylureas stimulate the pancreas leading to better insulin secretion. Most common side effects of this drug are weight gain and low blood glucose.

Shiny and voluminous hair is not only a sign of beauty but also speak volumes about the good health. However, maintaining them is not an easy task. The health condition of your hair depends on various nutrients, which are used by your body for their growth and repair. To help you keep your hair healthy, we have drawn up a list of some of the best vitamins for hair growth. Read on to know more. Vitamin A An important vitamin for proper hair growth is the vitamin A. It contains antioxidant properties that help in keeping the scalp moisturized by the production of sebum. Sebum is a natural oil made by the skin glands which makes your hair glossy. Vitamin A offers faster hair growth and sufficient thickness. Vitamin A rich foods include: Egg yolk Sweet potatoes Milk Spinach Mangoes Carrots Dried apricots Niacin (Vitamin B3) One of the 8 B vitamins, niacin is a necessary nutrient that is required for proper functioning of the body. Its chemical composition (nicotinamide) helps to improve skin function. Niacin ingested orally or applied to the scalp protects the scalp and hair from damage caused by sun/UV rays exposure. It makes your hair less brittle and provides more luster. Foods to eat for vitamin B3 deficiency: Tuna Mushrooms Avocados Turkey Biotin (Vitamin B7, Vitamin H) A part of the vitamin B family, biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that is also known as the hair growth vitamin, vitamin H. A part of the vitamin B family. This vitamin works to complement hair growth by activating the amino acids and fats that are essential for maintaining the structure of the hair protein keratin. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to hair loss and sparse growth. Research has shown that intake of biotin coupled with an external application made hair grow back in areas where hair shedding had taken place.

Are you experiencing neck or back pain? If you experience tingling, burning, numbness, or weakness along this pain, you may have a pinched nerve. A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, apply pressure on a nerve. The most commonly affected areas are the back and neck, but it can affect any nerve. The medical term for a pinched nerve is radiculopathy. A radiculopathy is caused when one or more nerves are compressed, and this causes loss or disruption of nerve function. In radiculopathy, the compression occurs at the nerve root, just as it exits the spinal cord. The compression of the nerve interferes with its ability to transmit signals. A pinched nerve commonly occurs in the back, neck, elbows, and wrists. The symptoms of a pinched nerve depend on the nerve that is compressed. The symptoms can be seen along the distribution of the nerve and can affect the muscles that are supplied by that nerve. With proper pinched nerve treatment, most people can recover within a few weeks. In some people, despite adequate pinched nerve treatment, the condition can develop a chronic condition. Symptoms of pinched nerve- The symptoms of a pinched nerve can be varied since it depends on the distribution and functions of the affected nerve. However, there are a few common symptoms that hint at a pinched nerve. The symptoms are- Numbness Radiating pain that can be shooting, stabbing, prickling, burning, etc. Paresthesias (abnormal sensations such as tingling) Localized muscle weakness Pinched nerve treatment aims to reduce the compression of the nerve. Thereby alleviate the associated symptoms. Commonly affected nerves are- Median nerve at the wrist, which is called carpal tunnel syndrome. Ulnar nerve at the elbow Common peroneal nerve compression at the knee Sciatica (pinched nerve in the lower back) Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve in the neck) Causes of pinched nerves- Pressure on a nerve causes damage to the protective covering of the nerve, called the myelin sheath.

Do you feel like the meal you just ate is making its way back? Or maybe you feel like your chest and throat is on fire. What you’re experiencing is heartburn. Heartburns are caused when there is acid reflux and the food you’ve consumed is thrown back into the esophagus along with the stomach acid and enzymes. Heartburns are unpleasant but with the right treatment and simple home remedies, you can deal with it and help prevent it from occurring in the long run as well. Heartburn Symptoms Heartburn is a relatively common condition that most of us experience, especially after a heavy meal. The most common heartburn symptoms have been listed below. Chest Pain: Pain in your chest is a common symptom of heartburn. Chest pain is experienced especially when you lie down or bend over. Dizziness and lightheadedness : A burning sensation in your chest, especially at the back of your throat. Acid reflux sends back food and acids that make the end of your throat sour, hot, salty or acidic. You might also feel like you have food stuck in your throat. Hoarseness, sore throat, and coughing. Rapid breathing and shortness of breath. The pain in your chest might extend to your neck, shoulders, and even arms. While these are the symptoms of heartburn, it is easy to confuse them with a heart attack which can prove to be fatal. Here’s how you differentiate heartburn symptoms from the symptoms of heart attack. With heartburn, pain radiates to the neck, shoulders, and arms, but the radiation is very slow, and it happens gradually. A heart attack, on the other hand, starts with a feeling of dull pressure or pain in the center of your chest, and fullness or tightness in the rest of your body. Heartburns occur after a meal, especially a heavy meal or if you sleep or indulge in excess physical activity after a meal.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in strands. Mold could be present in homes all year round. The most common molds found in homes are as follows. Cladosporium Penicillium Alternaria Aspergillus Stachybotrys chartarum Stachybotrys chartarum is the greenish-black mold that is sometimes found indoors. It grows on surfaces rich in cellulose content, such as wood, fiberboard, paper, and dust. Molds reproduce by forming spores. These spores could travel through air and are invisible to the naked eye. Once mold spores form, they are hard to get rid of and could survive even in dry or harsh conditions. Molds travel with the wind and may grow when they come across a moist environment. Outdoor molds aid in the decomposition process of leaves and compost piles. These are most often found in damp and dark environments. The environments most suitable for growth of molds are as follows. Damp Warm Humid The mold found indoors could affect the surface where it grows and could lead to health issues as well. In homes, molds are most likely to be found in the following places. Bathrooms and basements Drywall Ceiling tiles Carpets Furniture Ductwork Roofing Wallpapers Mold spores enter homes through the following locations. Open doors Windows Vents Attached to shoes Through pets Molds may grow on foodstuff But not all molds are bad. Molds help in making some cheeses such as Brie Gorgonzola Stilton Molds involved with food manufacturing processes are safe and free from health risks. Health Risks Associated with Molds Molds produce allergens. Molds also produce mycotoxins. Presence of mold doesn’t imply that toxins are being produced. It may not imply a high health risk as well. Allergies are most common reactions caused by molds. But molds could lead to some other health problems, though these are rarer. Allergic Reactions to Molds Allergic reactions are the single most common problem associated with molds.

Constipation is a condition that involves difficulty in passing stools. Hardening of stool and decrease in the frequency of passing stool is also noticed. Sometimes, episodes of constipation can occur in between diarrhea as well. When constipated, the stools are hardened, and it becomes difficult for it to pass through your rectum. Causes of constipation Your diet plays an important role in the functioning of your body, and the same goes for constipation and its treatment. Consuming foods that are rich in fats and dairy products causes constipation. Inadequate consumption of foods that are rich in fiber is also a major cause. Water is something you shouldn’t compromise. Drinking eight to ten glasses of water on a daily basis is a must. Inadequate consumption of water can cause your stools to harden. Your colon needs water to keep the stools soft as well. Drinking a lot of water is also one of the treatments for constipation. Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to dehydration. These drinks make you pass urine frequently, due to which your intestines begin to absorb moisture. This causes you to get constipated. Sometimes, constipation is caused when you delay or ignore your bowel movements. Ignoring the desire to have bowel movements may initiate a cycle of constipation. This is true for people who hold back their stools because they don’t like using the public toilet. This shouldn’t be the case as it can lead to progressive constipation if repeated often. Medications can cause constipation too. Painkillers, iron tablets and a few narcotic drugs can suppress bowel function, leading to constipation. Laxatives help induce bowel movements and loosen the stool, but using this can make your bowel lose its sensitivity. You might become too dependent on these laxatives, and it can have a negative effect on you, that is constipation.

Dry eye syndrome is a common health condition attributed to inadequate lubrication of eyes. It can happen either due to insufficient production of tears or low-quality tears. Dry eyes are very uncomfortable and cause a burning sensation in the eyes. Generally, dry eyes develop due to uninterrupted working on computer screens, sitting in air-conditioned rooms for longer durations, or while long driving. Here is a closer look at dry eye symptoms and treatment options. Prevalence According to one estimate, millions of people in the country suffer from dry eyes. Moreover, it increases with increasing age, and women are more prone to develop dry eyes compared to men. Causes of dry eyes Several factors lead to dry eyes. A few are listed below: Use of medications such as antihistamines, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy Dry eyes are more prevalent in people aged above 50 Vitamin A and vitamin B 12 deficiency, diabetes, and thyroid disorders are also linked with dry eyes Insufficient blinking, allergies, and autoimmune disorders Chronic conjunctivitis Symptoms of dry eyes Common dry eye symptoms are: Red eyes and burning sensations and eye fatigue Blurred vision and light sensitivity Difficulty in driving A problem in wearing lenses Ways to treat dry eyes Use of lubricants Mild dry eye symptoms due to excessive use of computer or reading can be treated with artificial tears or lubricant eye drops. Other options are the use of gels and/or lubricants after consultation with a doctor. Lifestyle changes Take periodic breaks while working on a computer screen. Blinking eyes frequently and closing them for a few minutes while using a smartphone or any digital device may also help in reducing the symptoms of dry eye. This allows basal tears to spread uniformly across the eye. In case of long driving, wear proper sunglasses which covers the eyes completely thus protects your eyes from dust particles and warm air.

The pollution levels in most urban spaces are rising at an unhealthy level and this, while undoubtedly affecting your health, also leads to hair loss. Other factors that affect it are stress, usage of too many hair products that have chemicals, and bad maintenance. One major consequence of an unhealthy environment is hair loss. What is hair loss? On an average, a human being sheds around 100 strands of hair in a day. If there seems to be more loss or the following signs, it is a call for concern. Signs of hair loss Scalp and crown that has thinning hair (usually seen in men) A hairline that is receding quickly A pattern on the head that is located near the crown. It is usually of a horseshoe shape. Although in circumstances where hair loss is sudden and severe, you are advised to see a doctor. Treatment There are several treatments one could pick to combat this problem. But a lot of treatments can be very time-consuming. One of the easiest ways you could treat your hair is by incorporating the remedy into your existing hair care routine with a shampoo for hair loss. Here’s a way you could broadly pick out what is best for you. This will help you pick the best products for your hair care: First, analyze your hair’s condition and texture. Find a product which will be suitable for your hair type. Finally, change the brand you are using once in every few months. Shampoos are made up of ingredients which clean out the dirt, pollutants such as smoke particles and even its natural oils (sebum). Any general hair loss shampoo available in the market does just about that, although you should be careful with some low priced brands since the shampoo might be harsh and strip the hair of its vital lipid layer.

Cholesterol is a type of fat molecule which is present in your blood. It is an essential component that helps to maintain and shape cell structures. It is vital to have a certain level of cholesterol in your blood, but high levels of cholesterol can be harmful to your health. High levels of cholesterol according to the cholesterol chart could mean that there are deposits of fatty substances in your blood. These fatty substances occur due to high cholesterol levels and make it difficult for your blood to flow through your arteries. It can lead to a heart attack or stroke. A cholesterol levels chart typically monitors your total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. Types of cholesterol There are two types of cholesterols in your blood, namely high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. HDL helps remove the excess cholesterol while LDL is the cholesterol that accumulates in your arteries. Cholesterol level charts for adults and children Cholesterol levels can be categorized as good, borderline, low, and high. The cholesterol level charts are different for children and adults. The total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels are measured and then categorized as good, low, high, bad or borderline. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has defined the values indicated below. Cholesterol levels for children Good cholesterol corresponds to total cholesterol of 170 or less, HDL cholesterol of 45 or higher, LDL cholesterol of 110 or less, triglycerides of 75 for age group 0-9 years and less than 90 for the age group of 10 to 19. Borderline cholesterol suggests total cholesterol of 170 to 199, HDL cholesterol of 40 to 45, LDL cholesterol of 110 to 129, triglycerides of 75-99 for age group 0-9 years and 90 to 129 for the age group of 10 to 19.

Sciatica is caused due to irritation of a particular nerve in the human body. It happens to about four out of every ten people at some point in their lives. The sciatic nerve runs along either side of the lower spine, through the buttocks and pelvis, passes through the upper legs, and then divides at the knee. It also branches into the feet. What causes sciatica pain? When there is pressure or irritation on the nerve, it causes pain that shoots through the back of the legs. The pain will vary depending on the situation. A patient may also face weakness, numbness, and a tingling sensation along the nerve. The pain becomes worse if the person sits, stands, sneezes, coughs, or strains their body for a long time. The best treatments for sciatica can provide relief and help the patient recover quickly. Best treatment options for sciatica The treatments vary from cold or hot packs to medications. Exercise is another remedy for sciatic nerve pain. Medications for sciatica pain People can use several medications for getting relief from sciatic pain. Here are some oral medications that can help: Over-the-counter medications like pain relievers provide temporary relief from sciatic pain. Few that help with the condition are acetylsalicylic acid, NSAIDs, ibuprofen, naproxen, and paracetamol. Doctors also prescribe muscle relaxants to calm muscle spasms. Antidepressants may also help with severe back pain. It is important to note that children below the age of 18 should not take aspirin as it increases the risk of Reye’s syndrome. In a few cases, a doctor may inject steroids into space around the nerve. This type of medication can help reduce the irritation. It mostly works in cases where the cause of the irritation is a ruptured or herniated disc. Exercises to get relief from sciatica pain One of the best treatments for sciatica is physical exercise.