A Guide to Natural Sleeping Aids

A Guide to Natural Sleeping Aids

According to a study by The John Hopkins University, over 60 million people in the country do not get enough sleep and over 40 million of the country’s population struggles with sleep disorder symptoms. Lack of sleep can affect a person’s daily routine and it is important to know about natural sleeping aids that can help you increase the quality of your sleep. Why do you need to sleep well? An individual ideally requires between seven to eight and a half hours of sleep each night, but this figure can differ based on a number of factors. Every person has a natural internal clock or circadian rhythm that controls sleep patterns and helps a person know when to sleep and when to wake up. Moving away from this pattern can cause sleep deprivation that can negatively affect a person. The effects of sleep deprivation range from poor physical and emotional health to difficulty in concentration and memory. It can also lead to major health conditions such as depression, heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It is important for a person to enjoy good sleep quantity and quantity and natural sleeping aids can go a long way to boost this process. The most beneficial natural sleeping aids Melatonin Melatonin is a hormone released by the brain that helps in regulating a person’s circadian rhythm. Studies have shown that this hormone helps in improving sleep patterns and can also help increase the length of sleep. Melatonin has also been found to be effective in decreasing the jet lag levels while traveling. However, just like many other natural supplements, melatonin supplements are is tested and regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and it is best to consult a doctor to know if it is suitable for you. Valerian Extracted from herbs, this is one of the most popular natural sleeping aids in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety.
Using Probiotics to Treat Yeast Infections

Using Probiotics to Treat Yeast Infections

Let’s take a brief look at yeast contagions and other fungi contagions, along with their prevention measures Fungi are everywhere. There are almost a million different species of fungi all over the world. It’s almost a miracle that only a handful of them actually cause humans any form of contagion. Microscopic fungi are often the cause of fungal contagions, and they tend to live in the environment, potentially anywhere. They have only a certain set of requirements to survive. So, it’s almost impossible for us to truly avoid them. Here’s everything you need to know about fungi contagions and most importantly, yeast contagions, probiotics for yeast infections, and other things you can do to prevent these diseases. Syndromes: How it can look or feel Mild fungal contagions can resemble cuts or rashes. If we were to take up the example of ringworm, a skin contagion that is caused by a fungus, you might already be aware of how it looks. Fungal contagion inside the body parts like the lungs can be more serious. It can cause syndromes that may be identical to tuberculosis or flu. These include mild to high fever and coughing. The most common type of fungi contagion is yeast contagion. This generally affects the genitals, and this syndrome is more common in women than it is in men. The syndromes of this contagion include itching, burning, or irritation in the genitals. In women, the itching is felt near the vagina or beside the vulva. Pain or soreness in the genitals is also common, and this pain can also involve burning sensations. In the case of men, the syndrome is generally limited to itching and serious rashes. In women, it can also lead to a white odorless or watery discharge. Swollen skin or redness is also common in both the sexes.
Hip Bursitis – Causes, Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment

Hip Bursitis – Causes, Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment

The hip joint is one of the strongest joints of the human body. It helps us to stand and walk and absorbs the impact when we jump. However, it is not immune to wear and tear. Hip bursitis or the inflammation of a bursa in the hip is one of the common causes of hip pain. Prescription medication is not always required for relief from hip bursitis. What is hip bursitis? Sacs filled with fluid that reduce the friction between tissues as they move are known as bursae. The major bursae are located at large joints such as the hips, shoulders, elbows, and knees. There are two bursae in the hip, the trochanteric bursa on the outer hip and the iliopsoas bursa on the inner side of the hip. Inflammation of the bursa is known as bursitis. This is not infectious but it may become infected. Causes of hip bursitis It becomes easier to seek relief for hip bursitis if one understands the factors causing it. The most common causes of hip bursitis are as follows: Injury to the hip Falling on the hip or banging the hip on a hard surface can lead to blood being filled in the bursa and inflammation of the bursa lining. While the blood may be later reabsorbed by the body, the lining stays inflamed for much longer. This is also known as traumatic bursitis. Repetitive hip trauma Sometimes even minor trauma to the hip can cause hip bursitis if it occurs repeatedly. These are known as mini-traumas . People who run or bike have a higher risk of hip bursitis caused by such mini-traumas . Gout and rheumatoid arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis affects the outer lining or the synovial membrane of the bursa. Similarly, gout causes the accumulation of urate crystals in the synovial membrane.
Easy DIY Remedies to Treat Psoriasis Symptoms

Easy DIY Remedies to Treat Psoriasis Symptoms

You do not have to pop pills or use chemical ointments all the time to keep your psoriasis symptoms in check. Some simple home remedies can do the trick too. Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder that manifests itself in the form of scaly, flaky, and red patches of thickened skin. While not a life-threatening condition, psoriasis is a chronic disease that can be quite frustrating to live with. Psoriasis symptoms vary for every person, and can range from being mild to quite severe with nasty and frequent outbreaks. For those who experience worsening of their psoriasis symptoms at the slightest of triggers such as sunburn or a skin injury, going out of home and other everyday activities may become a cumbersome task. Added to that is the fact that psoriasis has no cure; however, there are various medications available that can help reduce your psoriasis symptoms and control the intensity of eruptions on your skin. The good news is that there are some simple remedies available that can help you lessen your psoriasis symptoms naturally. These easy do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions are things that you can do right at home and with ingredients that are available in most household kitchens. Here are some such natural remedies that can be effective in controlling your psoriasis symptoms. Aloe vera Apply aloe vera gel to the affected areas on your skin to lessen psoriasis symptoms such as scaling of the skin and rashes. Tested by dermatologists, this natural remedy can bring about a significant change in your psoriasis symptoms in just 3-4 weeks. All you need to do is apply the soothing gel of this plant to your skin at least thrice every day. Fish Oil Omega-3 fatty acids have been proven to be a solution for flaky and patchy skin, one of the psoriasis symptoms that you have to face regularly.
A Brief Overview of Ankylosing Spondylitis

A Brief Overview of Ankylosing Spondylitis

The sedentary human lifestyle has brought with it a baggage of newfound health issues resulting in weakening of the human body structure. Ensure to keep a constant track of changes in your body and maintain a regular body check-up schedule. Arthritis is a common health issue faced by youngsters today. What was earlier limited to people nearing their old age has now started showing up within the age group of 20 to 25. If you witness sudden pain and stiffness in your backbone, these are a few Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms. To precisely define it, ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that affects the bones and muscles of the spine thereby making it stiff, painful, and stooping. According to recent research, 0.1 percent to 0.4 percent of the total population is affected from ankylosing spondylitis. If classified gender wise, this medical issue is more common in males as compared to females. It is important to keep track of this form of arthritis as it escalates with every passing day. There is no proper medical clarification as to how and why ankylosing spondylitis affects your body. It has also been noted that people carrying a gene called HLA-B27 are prominently affected by this medical issue. However, there is no accuracy in these findings. There have been instances wherein people with the similar gene have not been affected by this form of arthritis. Following are a few ankylosing spondylitis symptoms: Recurrent pain and stiffness The first ankylosing spondylitis symptoms are constant pain and stiffness in your spine, lower back, and in pelvic bones. In the initial stages, there are random bouts of pain which eventually surge over a period. The constant rubbing of the muscles and bones result in extreme pain. If you witness prolonged pain in your back or the lower back muscles, it’s time to get yourself thoroughly checked to avoid further complications.
A List of Natural Cures for Tinnitus

A List of Natural Cures for Tinnitus

Do you often experience a brief ringing sound in your ears? Do automatic sounds in your ear disturb your work? Well, in medical language, this term is referred as tinnitus and affects almost everyone. While some get the ringing or sizzling sound in their ears frequently for a constant period, there are others, who get this rarely or for a brief period. Also, it is not necessary to hear the strange sounds in both the ears; you can get it in any one of the ears. Though the sound is quite annoying for some people, in most of the cases, it lasts for a short span and does not need any medical attention. However, if you often get interrupted with this, you can try out a few tinnitus natural cures: Ginkgo Biloba You can find a lot of natural cures for treating tinnitus. However, there is nothing that can be compared with Gingko Biloba. It is known for curing the ringing problem in ears by improving its functioning and boosting blood circulation. Apart from controlling blood circulation, Gingko Biloba also ensures to cure any antifungal or antibacterial infection present in the ear. Getting Gingko Biloba is also very easy as it is available in almost all places selling herbs or organic products. Just follow the usage instruction and experience the positive results within a few days. Consulting a doctor is necessary before providing this to any children. Apple cider vinegar You can also rely on apple cider vinegar to treat tinnitus naturally, as it is known for curing inflammation as well fungal infection in different parts of the body. It also reduces the sensation by balancing the alkaline content of your body. For a complete cure, you just need to take a glass of water and mix two spoons apple cider vinegar with a few drop of honey in it.
How Diabetes Causes Foot Problems

How Diabetes Causes Foot Problems

Diabetes is a medical condition associated with the lack of insulin which is a hormone released by the pancreas. Insulin helps convert glucose from food into energy. Due to the lack of insulin, glucose stays in the blood; high glucose levels can cause health problems. A diabetic person can develop various health issues such as heart diseases, eye problems, and nerves damage. A common health problem that is faced by diabetic people is diabetic foot pain. Your blood vessels get damaged due to the lack of insulin. Diabetes also results in damage to peripheral nerves that can cause diabetic foot pain. It’s not only the nerve damage but also decrease in blood flow that causes pain. It delays the healing process of an infection, which might become affected by gangrene; in the case of gangrene. the leg or the affected part may need to be amputated. Here, we’ll look at diabetic foot pain in detail. Diabetes can cause foot pain in two major ways. Firstly, it reduces blood flow, thereby leading to the lack of flow of oxygen and nutrients to the leg. Due to this, you become prone to cuts and damages on the feet. Secondly, there is a diabetic nerve called peripheral neuropathy that causes numbness in your feet and increases the chances of soreness and infections. Problems associated with diabetic foot pain Fungal infection in nails : Fungal infection in nails is caused by bacteria, and this causes irritation and redness. The infection also leads to a change of color (yellow) of the nails along with inflammation and pain. When left untreated, the fungus becomes worse and infects your other toenails, the skin on your feet, and even your fingernails. In severe cases, the infection can impair your ability to walk or cause painful ingrown toenails. Muscle and joint problems :
Preventive and Clinical Treatments of Migraine

Preventive and Clinical Treatments of Migraine

Primarily a headache disorder, migraine is usually characterized by recurrent headaches and can be diagnosed on the basis of medical history, symptoms, and physical & neurological examination. Migraine is a common problem in the country and is accompanied by physical warning signs like blind spots, nausea, flashes of light, tingling sensation in arms and legs, vomiting, etc. The excruciating pain during migraine last for several hours or even days. To combat this pain, there are several treatments for migraine that help in easing severe pain. Treatments for Migraine There are different treatments for migraine that are known to stop symptoms and avoid future attacks. There are different medications that are designed specifically to treat migraines. Medications used to combat migraines can be classified into the following two categories: Pain-relieving medications – abortive or acute treatment, these medications are usually taken at the time of migraine attack and are specifically designed to stop or avert the symptoms. Preventive medications – These medications are often taken regularly to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. There are some medicines that are not recommended or advised if the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, there are some medicines that are not suitable for children. It is best to consult a doctor before starting any medicine. Pain-relieving Medications Pain-relieving medication should be taken as soon as symptoms of migraine are experienced. The medication works when taking at an initial stage and helps in easing the pain. Also, during migraine attack, it is advised to sleep in a dark room with no light. Migraine treatment medications include: Pain relievers for mild migraines belong to classes and OTC drugs For moderate migraine pain medications belong to Acetaminophen, Aspirin and Caffeine, Triptans are classes of medications that are used for treating moderate to severe types of migraine.
How to Detect the Early Signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis

How to Detect the Early Signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term autoimmune disorder that mainly affects and causes chronic inflammation of joints, making it swollen and painful, and also leads to their stiffness. The wrists and hands are most commonly affected by the same joints involved on both sides of the body. The disease may also affect other body parts, resulting in inflammation around the lungs and heart and a low red blood cell count. The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are such that they appear slowly at first as minor symptoms, which come and go, and over a time span of weeks and months, they gradually progress. The symptoms also vary from person to person. One must start interpreting the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis to start the medications on time to prevent a degradation of their condition. Following are the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis: Fatigue Experiencing an unusual amount of fatigue is one of the most subtle and earliest signs of rheumatoid arthritis. The presence of fatigue is there throughout all stages of rheumatoid arthritis, especially when the joint inflammation is active. Fatigue can also be caused by a reaction to the medications, poor sleep, anemia, and inflammation. This early sign of rheumatoid arthritis can hurt emotions, moods, relationships, and happiness, thus sometimes initiating depression. The presence of fatigue varies from person to person, and from day to day. Morning stiffness Morning stiffness has been noticed to be an early sign of rheumatoid arthritis. Stiffness lasting for a few minutes is often a symptom of degenerative arthritis, but the stiffness that’s last for several hours is a typical symptom of rheumatoid arthritis. The stiffness may also be experienced after prolonged periods of inactivity such as sitting or napping. Doctors tend to measure the severity of the active joint inflammation by the duration of morning stiffness.
Best Vitamins for a Healthy Heart

Best Vitamins for a Healthy Heart

Supplements and vitamins can help your muscles, bones, and many other body parts. According to many medical study reports, some of the vitamins and supplements may help in improving the blood pressure, lowering the cholesterol level along with maintaining other things that can put your heart at risk. Here is a list of some of the best vitamins for a healthy heart and some supplements. Even though it is unclear whether these vitamins or food supplements help in preventing strokes, heart attacks, and other heart-related diseases or not, but still it is sure that these help in maintaining a healthy heart. Read on and try to add these vitamins, nutrients, and supplements to your daily diet to maximize the heart health. Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) This is one of the best vitamins for a healthy heart, which you can add to your diet chart. It helps in regulating the homocysteine in the bloodstream. This homocysteine is an amino acid that is associated with the possible risks of causing blood clots. Broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and lentils are great natural resources of vitamin b9. Vitamin D Many medical research reports have reflected the fact that deficiency of vitamin D can lead to higher chances of heart-related problems. Hence, getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D is necessary to stay healthy. Your body produces this one of the best heart health vitamins. If you are in the sunlight, the production rate of vitamin D increases. However, being in the sunlight for a long time can cause other health issues as well. Vitamin D helps in regulating blood pressure. Aging, obesity, and getting lesser exposure to the sunlight can cause a deficiency of this vitamin. Coenzyme Q10 Well, technically, this is an enzyme. It not only helps in keeping a better heart health but also helps in lowering the cardiac failure signs and symptoms as per many medical study reports.
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer in Males

Symptoms and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer in Males

As far as the symptoms of male breast cancer are concerned, a specific cause has not been identified yet. Men are susceptible to breast cancer if there is a strong family history or the presence of an abnormal gene inherited from their parents. What are the symptoms of male breast cancer? When you find you that you are displaying certain signs and symptoms that show no signs of abating, it is important to consult your doctor. Symptoms of male breast cancer include: The breast tissue has some kind of thickening or the presence of a painless lump. The skin that covers your breast shows some changes like redness, wrinkling, scaling or dimpling. There are certain changes that take place in your nipple like redness or scaling. There is an inward turning of the nipple. The nipples let out some kind of discharge. Causes of male breast cancer A specific cause as to the occurrence of breast cancer in men has not been found. According to doctors, breast cancer in men occurs when certain cells in the breast divide faster than healthy cells. These cells then assemble together and a tumor is formed, which spreads or metastasizes to the nearby tissue and follows the lymph nodes. Then, they spread to the remaining part of the body. Both men and women have breast tissue in small quantities. The breast tissue has glands or globules which produce milk and ducts which transport the milk to the nipples and fat. There is more breast tissue development in women than in men at the time of puberty. As the amount of breast tissue in men is little, there is a possibility of developing breast cancer. Types of male breast cancer Diagnosis of breast cancer in men falls into the following categories: Cancer originating in the milk ducts or ductal carcinoma:
10 snacks that can help lower cholesterol levels

10 snacks that can help lower cholesterol levels

A soft waxy substance found among the fats in the bloodstream is known as cholesterol. The main function of cholesterol is to form some hormones, cell membranes, while it is also necessary for some other functions as well. If the cholesterol starts getting deposited in the arteries in the form of plaque it can cause severe health issues like heart attack and blockage in the arteries. Maintaining an unhealthy lifestyle, genetics, smoking, and a lack of physical activity are some causes of rise in bad cholesterol levels. There are two types of cholesterol which are found in a combination of fats and proteins. High density lipoproteins (HDL) or good cholesterol Low density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol One can control the build-up of bad cholesterol by cutting down on foods which cause a rise in bad cholesterol levels and maintain good cholesterol levels by adding foods and snacks which help in lowering cholesterol levels. Dry fruits: Dry fruits like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are healthy snacks which help in lowering cholesterol levels as they contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamin E, and unsaturated fats. Consuming a handful of nuts helps in lowering cholesterol levels. Avocados: Avocados are rich in fiber and unsaturated fats which help in lowering cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and keep the heart healthy. The unsaturated fats destroy the bad cholesterol thus lowering cholesterol levels. Dark chocolate: A heart-healthy snack which helps in lowering cholesterol levels, dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids contain antioxidant properties which help in lowering the build-up of bad cholesterol and helps in preventing heart diseases. Apples: Rich in pectin fiber, apples are a great snack for lowering cholesterol levels. They also contain antioxidant properties which help in lowering LDL or bad cholesterol levels. The bioactive compounds present in apples also help in preventing heart diseases.