The dog is man’s best friend, and lucky are those, who have a canine at their home. However, just domesticating a canine is not enough. You need to take proper care of the dog and ensure to provide it with proper healthcare facilities. Like humans, dogs too fall prey to different diseases and need different medications as well as vaccination from time to time. That’s not all. A pet owner needs to keep an eye for the allergies of dogs. Allergies in some cases can turn fatal for the canine. That is why it is important to start the treatment as soon as you find the first symptom of an allergy. Here are some common d og allergies symptoms you must not ignore. Itchy or moist skin – Even if you do not check out the skin of your pet every day, it is necessary for you to look into his skin minutely at a regular interval. In most of the cases, dogs suffer from different types of skin infections like redness or itchiness of the skin. Apart from that, some dogs also complain of scabbed or wet fur and skin. However, in case of flea allergies, the entire coat is not affected. It is the tail’s base or back side of the canine that shows the symptoms of the condition. Excessive scratching – In many cases, pet owners cannot detect the d og allergies symptoms with their naked eyes. That is the reason; it is important to keep an eye on the activities of your pet every day. Give special attention if you find any behavioral changes in the animal. Scratching is one of the common d og allergies symptoms and should be taken proper care right from the initial stage, or else it can affect the skin significantly.

Most people suffer from knee pain in their lives at some point in time. Exercise, sports, etc. cause tendinitis, muscle strains and serious injuries to cartilage and ligament. Many people are so severely affected by knee pain that their daily activities are restricted. There are others for whom even mild knee pain is a matter of concern as they hinder the active lifestyle they want to live. It is important to investigate the reason that is causing the knee pain and treat it immediately to avoid further damage. Given below some of the most common causes of knee pain: Knee ligament injuries The ligaments connect your thigh bone to the lower leg bones. They hold the bones together and also keep the knees stable. In sports, sprains and knee ligament tears are extremely common and occur to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL). If you suffer from any of these injuries, you would experience extreme pain in the knee and may need surgery as well. Knee cartilage tears Other injuries like tears can happen in the cartilage. It is a semi-hard tissue which covers the end of the bones. There are two menisci on both sides of the joint- the lateral meniscus found on the outside of the knee and the medial meniscus positioned on the inside of the knee. Meniscus tear causes knee pain. A knee cartilage tear is a quite common and needs surgery to treat it. Arthritis of the knee Arthritis causes severe knee pain and sometimes disability as well. It is a degenerative condition that needs surgery eventually. There are three main kinds of arthritis. These are osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Any of these conditions can result in swelling, the stiffness of the knees. You may find it difficult to bend the knees as well.

Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT is a condition where a blood clot appears in a deep vein in the body. When a blood clot occurs, the blood turns gelatinous. A blood clot from deep vein thrombosis is more likely to appear in your thigh or lower leg. But these clots can also occur in other parts of the body. This is a condition called a thromboembolism. Vulnerable age groups The symptoms of deep vein thrombosis appear more commonly in people over the age of 50. Certain physical conditions can also increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis in your body. It’s important to identify the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis early to prevent the problem from getting worse. Once you identify the cause of the problem, it’s easy to seek treatment. The factors which are likely to cause deep vein thrombosis are as follows: Injured or damaged veins Being overweight or obese puts a lot of pressure on the veins in your pelvis and legs. This can aggravate the risk factor. So if you’re obese, keep an eye out for symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. A history of deep vein thrombosis in the family can also make you more prone to it. Placement of a catheter in the vein could also lead to the problem.Women who are taking birth control pills regularly may also experience deep vein thrombosis. If you’re undergoing hormone therapy, you may find yourself experiencing some symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. Smoking is one of the biggest triggers for deep vein thrombosis. Lack of physical exercise, a sedentary lifestyle, and the accompanying obesity risk is another major factor that could lead to symptoms of deep vein thrombosis manifesting at a younger age. Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe People over the age group of fifty should stay vigilant for the early symptoms of deep vein thrombosis.

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes itching and scaly red patches to appear on the skin or scalp. Psoriatic arthritis is an advanced form of psoriasis that affects the small joints in one’s body. There are five known types of psoriatic arthritis that exhibit different symptoms with varying levels of severity. These include symmetric arthritis, asymmetric arthritis, distal interphalangeal predominant (DIP), spondylitis, and arthritis mutilans. Inflammation is one of the major triggers that can result in the condition worsening with time. Complications develop over time, and some of its symptoms can be managed with a simple combination of everyday ingredients to make herbal remedies for psoriatic arthritis. Here are five powerful herbal remedies for psoriatic arthritis. Apple cider vinegar It is one of the most versatile ingredients when it comes to treating skin disorders and diseases. Apple cider vinegar is effective against the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis as it is a natural anti-itch agent. Apple cider vinegar can be applied gently on the scalp and other affected areas on the body to counter the itching sensation. However, one must avoid direct application of raw apple cider vinegar in areas where the skin has blistered, or where there are visible cracks and signs of bleeding. Aloe vera Aloe vera gel has been commonly used to treat skin conditions and disorders for thousands of years. It is an affordable option when it comes to using herbal remedies for treating psoriatic arthritis. Aloe vera is particularly effective to treat skin burns and counter the irritation caused by inflammation. It is rich in glucomannan that accelerates healthy skin cell growth and healing of the affected area. Inflammation is one of the most persistent symptoms of psoriatic arthritis and the aloe vera gel’s naturally soothing properties cool the affected area. The gel soothes inflammation to reduce abrasions and burns.

Several conditions can cause poor circulation in the body, including stress, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease. Poor circulation may also result from low blood count, wherein the body fails to produce the necessary red blood cells (RBCs) in a day. Furthermore, a low blood count can lead to symptoms like numbness, digestive problems, and cramps. So, here are a few healthy foods that help increase blood count and improve circulation. Foods to increase blood count Eating healthy results in several health benefits. Here are some foods that can help raise the red blood cell count in the body: Cherries Cherries are rich in vitamin C, which compliments iron absorption by the body. Eating cherries can result in an increase in red blood cells in the body. Egg yolk Yolks contain folic acid, which is essential as it helps maintain hemoglobin levels in the body. Red meat Red meat, like beef, lamb, and pork, promotes healthy blood levels. These foods contain iron that is easily absorbed by the blood. The process helps improve hemoglobin levels, which improves the production of red blood cells. Dairy products Moderately having cheese and milk benefits the heart and regulates blood levels. Milk alternatives like soy and almond milk also help improve blood count. Foods for better blood circulation It is equally important to eat foods that improve blood circulation. Some of these foods include: Garlic One should add garlic to their daily meals because it is rich in allicin, which boosts immunity. Studies show that the regular habit of adding this allicin-rich herb soothes the blood vessels and promotes blood flow in the tissue. Beetroots Beetroots are known for their nitrate content, which helps blood circulation. The element helps improve the flow of blood and compliments blood pressure. Beetroots are also known to reduce inflammation of the blood vessels and increase nitric oxide levels in the body.

Hemorrhoids are quite a common disease. Three out of four adults suffer from the disease at some point in time in their lives. The disease may or may not come with symptoms. If hemorrhoids do come with its symptoms though, expect to feel itching, discomfort, and bleeding. The disease is commonly called piles and is characterized by the swelling of veins in the anus and the lower rectum. The onset of the disease may be a result of strain during bowel movements or increased pressure on these veins during pregnancy. Whatever be the case, it usually develops under the skin around the anus and inside the anus. While the disease has a number of causes, the cause of the onset of the disease is often unknown in individuals. If you are suffering from the symptoms of hemorrhoids, visit a doctor immediately. Here is how you can seek hemorrhoid pain relief. Hemorrhoid pain relief methods There are several hemorrhoid treatment options available in the market. You can choose to buy over-the-counter medications, or practice home remedies. Several treatment methods aim at easing the symptoms of the disease until the symptoms clear up on their own. Here are a few methods to get quick hemorrhoid pain relief. Taking a warm bath: One of the most underrated treatment methods, sitting in a tub of warm water can do you a world of good. Make sure that the water in the tub is just enough to cover your legs. It helps reduce irritation and ease the swelling caused by hemorrhoids. You can also choose to add other ingredients to the tub. These include the likes of apple cider vinegar and a cup of Epsom salt. Both go a long way in helping to reduce the symptoms of the disease even further. You can also apply apple cider vinegar directly to hemorrhoid, but be aware, this may sting and irritate the swollen skin even more.

Swollen ankles are very common and not a cause for too much worry. They are painful at times but do not pose any serious threat. The main reason for swollen ankles or feet would be pressure on the legs. So, walking or standing for a long time may typically lead to swelling of the ankles. In most of the cases, swollen feet and ankles get better on their own. They go away in a short time with enough rest to the legs. But sometimes the swelling may remain for a long time. It may cause severe symptoms and lead to serious complications. Here we discuss the various causes and the treatment options for swollen ankles. Causes There are many causes of swollen ankles. It may occur due to an injury or any underlying medical conditions. Doctors tend to place importance on understanding the cause of swollen ankles before delving into different swollen ankles treatment options. So, understanding some of the causes is important. Some of the common causes of swollen ankles are: Pregnancy – Swollen ankles are very common during pregnancy. It may occur due to the increased weight or increased pressure on the legs. But sometimes, it may be a sign of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that needs immediate medical attention. Hot weather – When the weather is hot, the veins expand and sometimes cause poor blood flow. The fluids start collecting in the feet and ankles. This results in swelling of the ankles. Injury – This is one of the main causes of swollen ankles. When there is an injury, the blood rushes to that area. The sudden rush of blood causes the ankles to swell. Edema – It is a condition where tissues in the body trap the excess fluid. This results in swelling of the tissues near the feet and ankles.

Heartworm disease is a serious medical condition that affects many animals. It is caused by a parasitic worm that spreads through the bite of a mosquito. If undetected, heartworms often result in severe lung infections, organ damage, and even heart failure. There are many options available to prevent this parasitic infection. In this article, there are a few easy home remedies that can help treat heartworms in dogs. Pumpkin seeds Pumpkin seeds are a great home remedy when it comes to deworming your pet dog. They contain an amino acid known as cucurbitacin that eliminates worms from the intestine. They have proved to be an effective treatment in removing heartworms from dogs. The best way to feed your dog pumpkin seed is by drying them, removing the shell, and grounding the seeds into powder. You can then sprinkle it onto your pet’s food until the heartworm dies. Carrots Another great remedy for worms in dogs is carrots. Carrot is a high-fiber veggie. That removes any mucus and parasites residing within the walls of the gut and stomach during digestion. The parasites are then eliminated from the body along with fiber content. When it comes to heartworm, carrots could help by producing anti-parasitic compounds. They are also filled with essential vitamins and nutrients good for overall health. Coconut oil Coconut oil is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It makes a great home remedy for deworming pets. It can also tackle other internal parasites such as heartworm. Give your dog one teaspoon of coconut oil per 10 pounds in body weight as part of their food. You can also give your dog dried coconut or coconut milk. Note that home remedies may not be safe or work in a similar manner for all dogs. So, don’t forget to check with the veterinarian before you start treating heartworm in dogs with home remedies.

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common virus that affects the respiratory system of babies, young children, and adults by triggering infection. In infants, RSV is often associated with pneumonia and bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs). Generally, an infection due to RSV causes mild warning signs similar to the common cold. But sometimes, the RSV symptoms can be quite severe and cause complications, especially in children under five years. Signs of RSV in infants RSV signs usually manifest after around two to five days of contact with the virus. Initially, the warning signs of RSV in infants are quite mild. Often, it seems like the baby has a common cold. But as the infection moves to the lungs, it triggers coughing and wheezing. In some infants, the infection may cause severe respiratory disease that requires urgent care at the hospital. This usually happens in the case of babies born premature or those with preexisting or congenital conditions related to the lungs, heart, or immune system. In general, these are some common signs of RSV in infants: Runny nose Fever Cough Apnea or short periods without breathing Difficulty swallowing, drinking, or eating Wheezing Flaring of the nostrils Straining of the stomach or chest while breathing Difficulty breathing Breathing quicker than usual The skin around the fingertips and lip begin to turn blue Ways to manage RSV warning signs in infants Along with treatment options recommended by a pediatrician, certain other management methods can help relieve discomfort caused by the infection. 1. Keep up the intake of fluids With airways blocked, infants find it difficult to feed as usual. Because of the discomfort caused by the congestion, many infants don’t show interest in drinking and feeding. As a result, they become easily dehydrated, worsening RSV symptoms. So, it is important to help infants stay hydrated as much as possible by ensuring they drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

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

Obesity is the accumulation of excess body fat in the body to an extent that it has a negative effect on health. Over two-thirds of adults in the country are obese, and this condition is increasing at an alarming rate among children as well. The main cause of obesity is wrong eating habits and lack of physical activities. Being obese increases the risk of developing cancer, heart-related problems, diabetes, and other diseases. It also heightens the risk of premature death. Those who are weight conscious are familiar with the term Body Mass Index (BMI) calculator. A BMI calculator is mostly used as a measure of obesity by physicians due to its simplicity. The Body Mass Index is calculated using a mathematical formula wherein a person’s weight in kilograms is divided by the square of height in meters. BMI has been used by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a standard for recording obesity statistics since the early 1980s. This index provides a numeric measure of whether a person is over or underweight. On the basis of the value of BMI, one can classify a population, with the average physique as follows: A BMI below 18.5 is considered as underweight A BMI 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy weight or normal A BMI 25 to 29.9 is considered as overweight A BMI 30 and over is considered as obese A BMI 40 and over is considered as severe obesity However, studies show that a BMI Calculator, which is based on the height and weight of a person, is not an entirely accurate measure of body fat content and does not consider muscle mass. So, people with large muscle mass will usually have a high BMI even though their body fat is in the healthy range. It is also possible to have a healthy BMI even while you are carrying a lot of fat around your waist.

Shingles is an infection caused by a virus. It is characterized by a painful rash. The same virus that causes chickenpox leads to this viral infection. It results in the development of a stripe of blisters, usually on one side of the body. This rash is very painful, and usually, patients need to adopt some remedies to get relief from shingles. Symptoms and diagnosis of shingles Shingles is characterized by pain and a burning sensation. You may also experience a tingling or numbing sensation in or under your skin. It may lead to the appearance of red blisters which are very painful. Shingles is also accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and headache. You may experience itching and irritation as well as fatigue due to shingles. Your doctor may diagnose shingles through its tell-tale symptoms and signs. When you have red blisters that tend to sting, itch and burn, you probably have shingles. These signs alone help your doctor in the diagnosis of this problem. It is essential to get the right diagnosis to find the right remedies and treatments for shingles. Risk factors The varicella-zoster virus which causes chickenpox is responsible for shingles as well. If you have had chickenpox at any point of time in your life, you face the risk of developing this condition. Once this virus enters your system, it stays dormant for a long time. It may get activated by exposure to infections when your immunity levels are low. Though shingles itself is not contagious, the varicella-zoster virus is communicable. Exposure to open sores of other shingles patients can put you at the risk of developing this infection. You are at high risk of developing shingles after you turn 50. Some diseases like HIV, AIDS, as well as cancer, can put you at risk of developing this problem.