5 foods that help cope with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

5 foods that help cope with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

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.
Types of Eczematous Dermatitis and Their Symptoms

Types of Eczematous Dermatitis and Their Symptoms

Eczematous dermatitis or eczema is a skin condition that is characterized by itching, red and inflammation. It is a common condition and in fact, has spread to greater than 30 million people in the country. It is not contagious therefore it does not spread from one person to other. The exact cause of eczematous dermatitis is not known. But, it is believed that those who develop eczema due to genes and environment. It occurs when an allergic substance makes changes to our system and skin cells. It is feasible that a person can develop more than one type of eczematous dermatitis at a single point in time. The skin condition can result in redness and itching in the sufferer. It may also cause weeping. The most common type of dermatitis is atopic dermatitis (AD). It is important to know which types of skin problem you suffer from before you seek treatment. Understanding of condition also aids the problem. Types of eczematous dermatitis Atopic dermatitis It is characterized by scratch marks on the backside of knees. It is chronic as well as inflammatory. The cause of the type of skin condition is unknown so far. However, it happens when the immune system goes weak. It normally develops in childhood. It is possible to suffer from the condition in first six months after birth. If you witness signs of an AD in your child, take precautions. However, it goes away itself with time. The AD also includes two ore allergic conditions known as allergic rhinitis. Researchers believe that people with family history of the AD, hay fever or asthma are likely to develop AD in future. Symptoms of AD Dry skin Scaly skin Itching Redness Cracks in skin Rash on arm, cheeks, and legs Weepy sores Contact dermatitis This skin condition is caused by metal watch dial.
All You Need to Know About the Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis

All You Need to Know About the Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in your joints. Here is everything you need to know about the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in your joints, usually, the small joints of your hands and feet. Affecting around 1.5 million people in America, this form of arthritis can lead to cartilage damage, if it is left unchecked. It is much more common in women and generally occurs in individuals over the age of 40. Apart from affecting the joints, rheumatoid arthritis can also cause problems in other organs of the body like the eyes, blood vessels, skin, and the lungs. Fatigue, fever, morning joint stiffness, swollen and tender joints, and weight loss are some of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. In most cases of this type of arthritis, the symptoms are symmetrical. In other words, most often than not, the same joints are affected on both sides of the body. The rheumatoid arthritis symptoms vary in severity from one person to another. They also tend to come and go; the periods of the symptoms flaring up will alternate with periods when the symptoms go into remission. Over a period of time, as this disease progresses, it can cause the joints to shift out of place and deform. No known cause of rheumatoid arthritis has been found yet, therefore, the treatment plan basically focuses on easing the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and the discomfort caused due to joint stiffness. The treatment plan can only go into action after the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is made. It can be quite difficult to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis because there are many conditions that cause joint inflammation and joint stiffness. Also, there is no single definitive test for this type of arthritis.
7 Natural Cures for Overactive Bladder

7 Natural Cures for Overactive Bladder

The urge of frequent urination is often considered to be a symptom of type 2 diabetes. Though the increased frequency of urination is a condition commonly associated with increased blood sugar level, it is not just the lone cause. People with overactive bladder problem also need to urinate at frequent intervals as their bladder loses the capacity of retaining urine for prolong period. In most of the cases, people get this condition with age, yet some also develop it as a side-effect of some disease. Whatever be the reason, medication can help in dealing with the problem to some extent. However, a majority of patients these days are searching for natural cures for overactive bladder instead of relying on the prescription pills. Change in diet – The natural cures for overactive bladder are the best choice for complete treatment of the condition, as it heals the conditions from within. Before taking any herbal supplements or medication, it is important to take care of the diet. Foods like artificial sweeteners, chocolate, spicy dishes and even tomatoes should be avoided by people with overactive bladder as these worsen the condition. Apart from that, patients should also maintain abstinence from alcohol, caffeine, citrus juices or fruits, cranberry juice, dairy products, corn syrup, fizzy drinks or soda, vinegar as well as sugar and honey. The effect of the abovementioned foods may vary from one person to other. Therefore, it is better to maintain a strict watch on the diet to understand what is triggering the condition. Monitor fluid intake – As the fluid retaining capacity of bladder decreases, it is better to restrict the consumption of liquids. Drink water as much as you need and stay away from juices or any other fluids. This will help in healing the bladder condition gradually, which in the long run will increase the capacity of fluid retention.
Here’s What You Need to Know about Probiotics

Here’s What You Need to Know about Probiotics

Probiotics are a recent evolution in human health aspects and many people do not know about it and they generally have a common question, “What are probiotics?”. These are live bacteria and yeasts, which are considered good for health. These have a beneficial effect on the digestive system of a person. Bacteria generally are considered harmful organisms which result in diseases. The human body also has a right composition of good and bad bacteria. It is these good bacteria which are commonly referred to as probiotics and are generally considered helpful as these keep the human gut healthy. Probiotics are also found in human body and can be found in some of the foods and supplements. Many people didn’t know what are probiotics before the 1990s but during the past two decades, research on probiotics has reached its pinnacle and much is now known about them. People who suffer from digestion-related issues are often advised intake of probiotics on a regular basis. How probiotics work Though it has been two decades since the beneficial effects of probiotics were found out, doctors are still working on finding as to how exactly probiotics work. However, it is certainly known that when good bacteria reduce in human body probiotics usually replace these. They also help maintain an elegant balance between bad and good bacteria in humans. Different types of probiotics Although people know what are probiotics, they may not know that different kinds of bacteria come under the preview of probiotics. Most of these fall under the following two categories: Lactobacillus : These are the most common probiotics. They are commonly found in fermented food items and yogurt. These probiotics help in the treatment of diarrhea and are particularly recommended for people who are not able to digest lactose, the sugar which is usually found in milk.
Burning Pain in Feet – Causes and Treatments

Burning Pain in Feet – Causes and Treatments

A burning sensation in your feet can have many causes like diabetic neuropathy, athlete’s foot, alcohol use, and so on. Identifying the cause is vital for focused medical treatments. Besides this, you can also try several home remedies. What causes a burning sensation in the feet? Many diseases and infections can cause burning pain in your feet. Diabetic neuropathy: If you have diabetes, gradually, your nerves can get damaged. This nerve damage starts in the feet. Damaged nerves may send incorrect signals to the brain, inducing pain sensations even when there is no wound or another injury. Heavy alcohol use: If you have a practice of regularly consuming alcohol in large amounts, then you can face nerve damage. Erythromelalgia: This condition produces a shooting and burning pain in your feet, without any recognizable cause. It is a rare disease. If you have it, then the pain can get worse after stressful activities like long walks, running, or standing for a long time. Infectious diseases: Infectious diseases like Lyme disease, athlete’s foot, shingles, and HIV can induce a sharp pain in your feet. Kidney Disease: Kidney dysfunction results in a build-up of toxins as the kidneys are no longer capable of clearing the waste and toxins from your body. Thus, this can result in pain in your feet. Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid results in low levels of thyroid hormones. A low level of these hormones can cause your feet to swell up and feel painful. Nutritional deficiencies: Vitamin B deficiency can cause burning pain in feet. Treatments for burning pain in the feet Depending on the cause of the burning pain, treatments may vary. For instance, burning pain in the feet caused by diabetic neuropathy may require you to keep your blood sugar levels in control by taking the right medications. Kidney disease-induced burning feet pain may be relieved by dialysis, which is a process that removes toxins from the body.
Everything You Need to Know about the Dry Eye Syndrome

Everything You Need to Know about the Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition which affects the eyes. It occurs due to insufficient lubrication and moisture in the eyes. It is also called as dry eye disease or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. This condition affects a majority of people, especially during old age. What is dry eye syndrome? Dry eye syndrome occurs when the tears produced are inadequate to lubricate the eyes. Due to this, the eyes fail to shield against dust and impurities. This causes discomfort or irritation to the eyes. Tears play an important role in preserving the health of the eyes. It is also helpful in providing a proper vision to the eyes. What are the symptoms? Dry eye causes a lot of discomfort and irritation. It gives a feeling of having something in the eyes all the time and an itchy sensation. A few other common symptoms of dry eye syndrome are as follows: Pain in the eyes Heaviness of eyes Dry sensation Redness of eyes Blur vision Burning In a few cases, there are chances where the eyes may produce excess tears. The lack of dampness in the eyes irritates them. There is stimulation to produce tears in excess, as a defense mechanism. This condition is “reflex tearing” and is only a temporary disorder. What are the causes of dry eye syndrome? There are many reasons for the occurrence of the dry eye syndrome. But the major factor which causes it is the lack of tear production. It occurs when there is an increase in tear evaporation or an imbalance in tear composition. The other factors which cause dry eyes are: Age The risk of developing dry eye increases with an increase in a person’s age. It is a natural condition in one’s old age. This is because the tear production reduces when a person grows older.
A Brief Overview of Dry Eye Syndrome

A Brief Overview of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a disease that is commonly characterized by a condition in which eye fails to make enough tears or tears quick evaporate. Dry eyes become red and swollen, and this causes pain and irritation in the eye of a sufferer. Dry eye syndrome is also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca or dry eyes. People 50 years or older are prone to suffer from this syndrome. There are 5 million Americans suffering from dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome is more common in women than in men. Women who are pregnant or taking hormone replacement therapy or experiencing menopause are at risk of dry eye syndrome. Here are many underlying conditions that can increase the risk of dry eye syndrome. If someone has chronic eye allergies, thyroid diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or any other immune system disorder, exposure to keratitis or vitamin A deficiency, they are at risk of contracting dry eye syndrome than those who do not have any of the above-mentioned conditions. Symptoms The symptoms of dry eye syndrome are usually mild in case of most people. Severe cases of dry eye syndrome are painful and difficult to treat. Symptoms that are commonly found in people suffering from dry eye syndrome are: – Feeling of dryness in eyes. – Grittiness and soreness in eyes – Red eyes – Eyes burning with inflammation – Eye sticking together on waking up – Temporary blurred vision – Watering eyes – Sensitivity to light If you think your symptoms are much more serious, visit your optometrist or GP. Causes of dry eye syndrome Dry eye syndrome can occur in people whose eyes fail to produce tear the natural way. There are a number of reasons leading to this condition. There are multiple reasons causing this problem. Here are the causes of dry eye syndrome.
4 Important Factors You Need to Know about Partial Onset Seizures

4 Important Factors You Need to Know about Partial Onset Seizures

What is a partial onset seizure? An abnormal electrical activity in the human brain causes these types of seizures. Specific underlying medical conditions can also lead to a seizure, and the patients have to keep a record of their seizures to assist the doctor to find out the triggers in a more efficient way. Here are the four important aspects you need to know about partial onset seizure: Learn about major symptoms of partial onset seizures Partial onset seizures can be classified into two categories, and they include simple partial seizures and complex partial seizures. As far as a simple partial onset seizure is concerned, you do not have to worry about losing consciousness. However, you may have to deal with a change in feelings or emotions at the same time. The way in which you hear, smell, or see things is also going to change. It can often be compared to a focal seizure without losing consciousness. When it comes to complex partial seizure, you may have to deal with the loss of consciousness and awareness. Meaningless or non-purposeful movements can be associated with a complex seizure. Rubbing your hands and smacking your lips are good examples and this type of partial seizure can also be referred to as focal dyscognitive seizure. Create better understanding of the leading causes Different types of lifestyle factors, underlying medical conditions and behaviors play an important role in triggering a seizure. If you can manage to find out the trigger, you will become successful in preventing future seizures. You can control some of the triggers in an easy way, but some others are really difficult to control. When you have to deal with a seizure, you have to consult with your doctor. You can take notes about the past seizures you have encountered, and this method helps your doctor find out the frequency of seizures and your pattern of behavior during each seizure.
All You Need to Know about Atrial Fibrillation

All You Need to Know about Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation, which is more commonly known as AFib, is a typical heart condition where the heart beats at a much faster rate than usual. More precisely, the heartbeat is often irregular and more than 100 beats or less than 60 beats per minute as compared to the normal heartbeat rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute, when you are in a resting and a relaxed position. Such fast heartbeats can cause serious complications like a stroke or a blood clot in the heart. Thus, it needs to be treated immediately before the situation goes out of the control. Thus, AFib treatment at the right moment is very important. In this article, we’ll discuss some important facts about AFib that can help you to take the right decision before it’s too late. Here are some foods to eat and avoid to reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib): Whole grains Whole grains contain fibers, which are known to improve cholesterol levels in the body. They also help reduce the risk of conditions linked to AFib, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Legumes Legumes such as lentils, beans, chickpeas, and peas contain healthy antioxidants, fiber, and other nutrients. Together, these properties can help lower “bad” cholesterol and reduce the risk of AFib. Olive oil Unlike other unhealthy oils, olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and more that may help alleviate any symptoms related to AFib. Foods to avoid Avoid these foods in order to effectively manage AFib. Alcohol Studies have shown that consuming alcohol can contribute to AFib risk factors like hypertension and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). Therefore, alcohol consumption must be avoided. Salt Salt is known to increase the chances of high blood pressure. In turn, it also puts you at risk of developing symptoms linked to atrial fibrillation.
9 Symptoms of Lupus Women Should Know About

9 Symptoms of Lupus Women Should Know About

Lupus, like many other autoimmune diseases, affects women more than men. Young women between the age group of 15 to 34 have been found to be suffering from lupus. However, no known cause of Lupus has been found. A mixture of genetic and environmental reasons has been attributed to Lupus. Lupus can affect any part of one’s body and the symptoms might vary from person to person. Some people show severe signs of Lupus while others might show only mild signs of this infection. Below are listed some of the common lupus symptoms in women, and an indication of any of these symptoms should be taken as a sign that one would be suffering from Lupus. Taking adequate precautions will always lead to signs of lupus getting weakened. Swelling in joints and pain One of the lupus symptoms in women is a pain, swelling in the joints, and stiffness in these parts in the morning. Pain and swelling in wrists and fingers indicate that lupus is on the way. However, this symptom is often confused with rheumatoid arthritis. However, the difference between lupus signs and rheumatoid arthritis can be understood from the fact that while lupus affects joints on one side of the body whereas, in rheumatoid arthritis, joints on both sides are affected. Moreover swelling in the case of Lupus is not permanent and might wither away with time. However, in rheumatoid arthritis, this swelling leads to disfiguring. Lupus also occurs in young women only and signs in older women do not develop to an advanced stage. Rashes on the face When exposed to the sun, lupus symptoms in women would include skin rashes. This is a characteristic feature of lupus. This kind of rash is typically known as butterfly rash and usually extends from bridge reason of the nose, goes through the cheekbone, and then further percolates to the jawbone.
Benefits and Precautions of Vitamin D Supplements

Benefits and Precautions of Vitamin D Supplements

Vitamin D is very important for everyone to lead a healthy and longer life. Vitamin D is produced when we are exposed to the sunlight. There are many benefits to us from Vitamin D. The deficiency of Vitamin D can lead to many diseases and abnormalities in the body such as loss of immunity and problems in menstruation etc. In equatorial and Asian countries where there is plenty of sunlight all through the year, there are lesser complaints of deficiency of Vitamin D. In countries where there are long winters; many people suffer from the deficiency of Vitamin D. The amount of Vitamin D needed by the body depends on the age and the body type. The approximate amount of Vitamin D needed by infants is 200 IU and adults is 600 IUs The body absorbs less amount of Vitamin D as we age and so we age, the amount of Vitamin D needed will be more. Obesity is another factor which makes the absorption of Vitamin D difficult as the fat cells absorb a large amount of Vitamin D. It is advised by doctors and experts to take an approximate amount of 1,000 to 2,000 IUs of Vitamin D in the winter. The intake of Vitamin D is very important when the exposure to the sun becomes less especially in countries with harsh winters. Vitamin D helps in building the bones, cognitive function, improving the health of the joints. This vitamin also improves in maintaining the immunity, controlling the blood sugar levels, maintaining a positive mood etc. Vitamin D helps in preventing osteoporosis, autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancer and many more diseases. It won’t be an exaggeration to say that the lifespan of anyone depends on the intake of Vitamin D. Doctors also recommend the consumption of Vitamin D supplements when there’s an extreme lack of the same.