Toenail fungus is a common problem that begins with a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail. Nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken, and crumble at the edge as the fungal infection goes deeper. It can attack any nail. You may not need a treatment if your condition is light and not disturbing you. If the nail fungus becomes painful and makes the nails thickened, home remedies and medications may be effective. Nail fungus usually comes back even if the treatment is successful. Read on to know the symptoms nail fungus and methods on how to get rid of it: Symptoms Although the fungus mainly affects the toenails, nail fungus can affect any fingernail. If properly treated, fungal nail infections don’t usually lead to serious long-term problems. However, in certain individuals who have diabetes or a weakened immune system, they may be more serious. There is no pain associated with the infection, but if you find your nails thickened or show discoloration from white to yellowish brown, you may have fingernail fungus. Nails becoming brittle, crumbly, ragged or distorted in shape are also its symptoms. Debris may build up under the nail and make the nail dark. Sometimes, the nail may generate a slightly foul smell. Treatment Medications Usually, doctors prescribe antifungal medications that you can take orally or apply to the nail for fingernail fungus treatment . In some cases, the oral and topical antifungal therapies may be combined. Oral Antifungal Medication This is the best toenail fungus treatment as it clears the infection more quickly than anything else. However, the treatment success rates with these medications appear to be lower in adults over age 65. These medications stimulate a new nail to grow free of infection by slowly replacing the infected part.

Type 2 diabetes is a manageable disease that can be cured after consulting a doctor. Most people diagnosed with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes. It is more common in people who are 45 years and older. If diabetes is complicated then it can lead to diseases such as stroke, blindness, heart disease, and kidney disease. Diabetes is known to be one of the major causes of death. Some of the symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, cuts, and sores that do not heal, and fatigue and blurry vision. With the right Type 2 diabetes treatment, you can live a healthy life. Diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes The tests mentioned below essentially measure the blood sugar amount. Glycated hemoglobin test: This test helps your doctor in finding out about your blood sugar level in the past few months. It measures the blood sugar percentage that is attached to the hemoglobin. If the test result is high then it means that your blood sugar amounts are also high. A sample of your blood will be taken and sent to a laboratory for test. This test is extremely convenient. It does not require you to fast before the test. The A1C test of 6.5% and higher indicates diabetes. That between 5.7 to 6.4 means prediabetes and less than 5.7% means that the blood sugar level is normal. Fasting plasma glucose test: It so happens that the A1C test is not valid at times. But for a proper Type 2 diabetes treatment, you need to be diagnosed. Your doctor might recommend this alternative test. For this, you are not supposed to eat anything overnight after which your blood sample is collected the next day. The result of this test also varies in case you have stress. If it is 126 mg/dL or higher then diabetes is indicated.

Most people who have suffered a gout attack pretty much know the signs of a flare-up. The worst part about a gout flare up is that there is not much you can do to stop it. Although there are no cures for the condition, there are some home treatments that can help in managing the symptoms of gout attacks. Gout, or gouty arthritis, has been reported as early as the fifth century B.C. This disease was dubbed as the “disease of kings” owing to its association with consumption of alcohol and rich food. A gout attack can occur with several warning signs or may occur suddenly without a warning. Its four stages are asymptomatic hyperuricemia, acute gout, interval gout, and chronic tophaceous gout. The symptoms and treatment vary for each stage. The most common joint where gout inflammation is observed are the joints in the feet. The top 5 gout treatments are a combination of medication and home care remedies that provide relief from pain and swelling. Causes of Gout Pain Gout is mainly caused by the buildup of uric acid in the body. The uric acid gets deposited in the form of crystals in the joints and tissues on the body, causing pain and inflammation. Gout is a complex health condition that comprises many contributing factors. High levels of uric acid, which lead to gout, may be caused due to digestive disorders or alcoholism, or unchecked diet. Foods like shellfish, red meat, sweet juices, organ meat, and salty food may cause a rise in uric acid levels. Kidney or thyroid problems may also lead to uric acid build up in the body. Those with a family history of gout are at a risk of developing gout. Alcoholism and medications are other causes of gout. The most commonly affected part is the big toe.

Whether you have a short-term pain or chronic pain on your knees, it’s just a reminder of the amount of stress you have to put on your knees throughout the day. Treating the excruciating pain on your knees should be your primary goal because it can really hamper your day to day works. If you want to get a quick remedy from the pain, then the best option you have is home treatment. Therefore, in this article, let’s explore some of the home-based knee pain treatment. Apple Cider Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is one of the most effective treatment measures for your knee pain. Whether you apply it topically or consume it, it will help you to get rid of that knee joint pain. Apple cider vinegar is a rich source for acetic acid. It exhibits tremendous anti-inflammatory properties that are essential to keep the knee joint pain away. It also helps you to reduce the swelling of the knee. Ginger The use of ginger in knee pain treatment has proven quite effective. Many who have tried ginger to cure their knee pain have met with wonderful results. It helps most people who have knee pain because of osteoarthritis. Ginger has a compound called gingerol, which is much powerful for analgesic remedy. Gingerol also has anti-inflammatory properties which make it effective for reducing pain. Turmeric For many years now, turmeric has been used by people to reduce pain in various parts of their bodies. It is also a great knee pain treatment option. Turmeric has a compound called curcumin, which is an anti-inflammatory element. Moreover, many studies conducted on the effects of turmeric on alleviating knee pain have shown that due to the presence of curcumin, consuming turmeric is a wonderful option for treating knee pain. Cayenne Pepper Cayenne pepper could be considered an excellent choice for knee pain treatment.

If you have diabetes, probably need to take special care of what you eat and drink. You need to keep a check on your carbohydrate consumption too as it can have an impact on your blood sugar levels. According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes patients should only drink low-calorie or zero-calorie drinks to prevent sudden spikes in the blood sugar levels. Therefore, selecting the right beverage can help you manage your condition as well as avoid unpleasant side effects. Besides, low-calorie drinks are beneficial in maintaining a healthy weight, which is extremely important for people who have diabetes. Given below is a list of top ten drinks for diabetes that are not only healthy but also make for a delicious treat. Top ten drinks for diabetes People with diabetes should drink adequate amounts of water. With zero calories, carbs, and sugar, water can satiate your thirst without harming your body in any way. It can also help in keeping your blood sugar levels in control as drinking water can help eliminate excess glucose from the body via urine. It is advisable to consume 8-10 glasses of water every day. However, many people don’t prefer drinking water because of its tastelessness. Luckily, there are quite a few tastier options available. People with diabetes can prepare or get these refreshing drinks. These delicious treats fit into their diet perfectly and help to gratify any cravings. Let’s take a look at some of these beverages. Chamomile tea With plenty of antioxidants and zero calories, chamomile tea is perhaps one of the best drinks for diabetes. This tea offers a plethora of health benefits. It helps to lower the blood sugar levels as well as prevents various medical complications such as kidney disease, damage to the nerves and circulatory system, and blindness. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a great ingredient that helps in controlling blood sugar levels.

Huntington’s disease is not just a physical disorder. One needs to understand the physical and mental stress it causes along with its symptoms. Huntington’s disease causes a progressive breakdown (degeneration) of the nerve cells in the brain. The symptoms of Huntington’s disease develop mostly in people between the age of 30 to 40 years, but it can strike anyone from children to seniors. If a patient falls prey to this condition before the age of 20, it is known as juvenile Huntington’s disease. The symptoms of this condition vary depending on when one develops this disease. Over 10 to 25 years, it kills nerve cells in the brain which affects the body, mind, and emotions of a patient. The symptoms of Huntington’s disease differ from person to person, and these symptoms can worsen if a person goes through a lot of stress and excitement. The initial signs such as abnormal movements are easily detectable. Weight loss is a constant cause of a concern through all stages of this disorder. Medical science has progressed a lot, and now, medicines are available for dealing with the symptoms of Huntington’s disease. However, one cannot prevent the physical, mental, and behavioral decline associated with the condition through treatment. Symptoms With a broad range of signs and symptoms, Huntington’s disease typically causes movement, cognitive, and psychiatric disorders. Some disorders appear to be more aggressive and have a significant effect on a patient’s ability to function normally. Movement disorder Huntington’s disease is linked to involuntary movements as well as impairments. A patient may exhibit actions such as: Involuntary yanking or writhing movements (chorea) Rigid or contracture muscles (dystonia) Abnormal or slow eye movements Impaired gait, posture, and balance Difficulty in speech or swallowing As time passes by, the symptoms may interfere with a patient’s day-to-day life.

Are you facing the problem of dark circles under your eyes? Are you tired of using makeup and concealers to constantly hide these unsightly circles? Well, don’t worry, because you don’t have to live with them forever. Thankfully, there are some easy home remedies that can help you get rid of these unwanted dark circles naturally. Here, we have listed some effective ways to treat dark circles under the eyes at home. First, let us understand some potential causes of dark circles. Causes of Dark Circles Under the Eyes Lack of adequate water intake Reduced hemoglobin levels Genetic factors Lack of sleep or restlessness High stress levels Lack of proper diet Prolonged illness Long hours of working in front of the computer Home Remedies to Treat Dark Circles under Eyes Dark circles under the eyes not only make you look older than your age but also make you look unhealthy or ill. Using the following ingredients can help to treat these dark circles under the eyes. Cold Cucumber Slices Cucumbers are a rich source of antioxidants. They serve as a natural astringent and help to reduce the puffiness around the eye area. Also, they act as a coolant, making the skin tissues around the eye area contract, making dark circles under the eyes less visible. Place two cucumber slices on top of each eyelid and let it stay for 5 minutes and then rinse. Cold Tea Bags Tea bags contain caffeine that helps in shrinking the skin tissues around the eyes. Furthermore, they contract the blood vessels around the eyes and reduce fluid retention, making the area under the eyes appear radiant. Take two used teabags and put them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. Finally, place them on your eyelids and allow them to stay for about 10 minutes.

Keratosis pilaris is a general, harmless skin ailment that causes small and hard bumps on the skin, making it feel like sandpaper. These light-colored bumps appear on the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks and are sometimes accompanied by redness or swelling. These bumps might show up on an individual’s face, but it is an infrequent phenomenon. Many children and teens are prone to keratosis pilaris and feel an itchy sensation. These bumps disappear over a period of time or as one gets old. A build-up of keratin in the system causes Keratosis pilaris. Keratin is a protein that shields your skin from infections and other harmful bacteria. The accumulation of the chemical leads to the formation of a plug that blocks the opening of a hair follicle. However, the exact reason for triggering the build-up is still unknown. People with dry skin are more prone to keratosis pilaris. The surface can get worse in winter when there is less moisture in the air. Here are a few things one can opt for keratosis pilaris treatment. Omega-3 Food rich in omega-3 help in keeping your skin moisturized and healthy. Walnuts, flaxseeds, salmon, tuna, sardines, and soybeans are rich sources of omega-3. For overall skin, health and function include leafy vegetables and greens to your daily diet. Certain foods are known to worsen the condition; dairy products can trigger inflammation, which can trigger conditions like keratosis pilaris. Fragrance-free Body Products Fragranced body products like lotions, creams, and perfume sprays, using scented soaps and body washes can exacerbate keratosis pilaris. Use products and follow a body-care regimen that is fragrance-free. Also, do not shower with hot water. Instead, use luke-warm water for bathing. Minimize skin dehydration by keeping bath time short, i.e, under seven minutes. Keratolytic Agents These agents help remove the scales that block the follicles and cause the formation of bumps.

If you have diabetes, then your doctor might have already cut all your favorite food items from your meals. Missing out on your favorite foods means that you lose interest in having your meals on time. If you are looking to add flavor back to your meals, we can help you out. Diabetic patients can continue to enjoy a lot of foods as a part of their diet. All they need is some nutrient-packed food ingredients that can satiate their hunger pangs. You can rest easy as your doctor will probably allow you to include these foods in your diet. Let’s have a look at the list of the best foods for a diabetic patient. Nuts Nuts can improve your blood sugar levels and help fight cardiovascular diseases. Walnut is rich in polyunsaturated fats, and it helps our body fight many health disorders. Such healthy fats are good for patients who have high blood sugar and heart diseases. These kinds of beneficial fats are also available in almonds, pecans, and pistachios. Nuts comprise of a high amount of protein and are low in carbohydrates. These qualities make them ideal for diabetic patients. Oatmeal Oatmeal is another food item that is on the list of healthy foods for diabetic patients, as whole grain can help fight diabetes. Oatmeal comprises of fiber in the form of beta-glucans that helps our body fight spikes in blood sugar levels. This food item also helps our body improve its insulin sensitivity. This type of soluble fiber can regulate blood sugar by controlling the absorption and breakdown of carbohydrates in the foods we consume every day. Several studies have confirmed that oatmeal is good for high blood pressure and cholesterol as well. Beans Beans are a rich source of protein and fiber that can keep you healthy.

All of us know what constipation is, but not many know how to treat it. People often get anxious as they don’t know how to prevent this condition. This article aims to help readers understand what constipation is, what are its causes, and what foods one should consume if they are constipated. What is constipation? Constipation is the partial, or in rare cases, complete inability to pass stools or have bowel moments. It may also cause mild to extreme pain. Constipation can occur to anyone at any time, and generally, it is common in young people below the age of 20. The problem usually goes away in a day, though sometimes, in severe cases, it may take weeks to cure this condition. What are the causes of constipation? While the causes of constipation can vary depending upon one’s diet, age, and location, the common causes of constipation are as follows: Sudden changes to your diet or activities Inadequate consumption of water or fiber Eating a lot of dairy products Not being active Resisting the urge to have bowel moments Stress or tension Overuse of laxatives Medications such as strong painkillers, narcotics, antidepressants, iron pills, and any supplement taken in bulk Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Pregnancy Aging Other changes in the routine like the excessive intake of carbs or fats Other forms of disorders and diseases What should one do if they experience these bowel problems for more than a day? If you don’t wish to visit the doctor and want to treat your problem at home, it’s rather easy. Adopting a diet for constipation can go a long way of not only curing the problem but also preventing it in the future. What should one consume if they have constipation? Water If you have constipation, you should drink a lot of water, irrespective of how severe your condition may be.

Chemical waste known as creatinine is produced in the blood that passes through the kidneys to be separated and excreted in urine. A by-product of normal muscle function and the chemical waste, creatinine produce depends on the muscles in a person’s body. More muscles mean more creatinine produce. The level of creatinine in a person’s body reflects both amount of muscle and their kidney function. A healthy kidney function for most men has approximately 0.6 to 1.2 milligrams/deciliters (mg/dL) of creatinine. Women with normal kidney functions have 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL of creatinine. The reason levels of creatinine are low in women is because an average woman has lesser muscle mass than compared to a man. Other factors that may contribute to the low level of creatinine in the blood include body size, activity level, and medications. A higher level of creatinine can cause impaired kidney function, kidney dysfunction or kidney disease. Hence, it is essential to keep a check on your creatinine levels and take the necessary steps to maintain good health and well-being. Here are a few home remedies on how to reduce creatinine naturally: Reduce vigorous exercise Regular exercise is vital for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, if an individual does an excess amount of physical activities or tasks, it can spike the creatinine levels in the blood. As muscle metabolism initiates creatinine production, overusing muscles through strenuous exercise might raise levels. A recent study indicated that an individual who does intense workout had increased levels of creatinine and this was in response to increased muscle breakdown. Consult your doctor about types of exercise and the number of sets you can or should do. Walking instead of running and yoga instead of lifting weights are better ways of maintaining a healthy life and yet keeping the creatinine levels under control.

A medical condition characterized by a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate is called overactive bladder (OAB). An overactive bladder leads to involuntary passage of urine, also known as urge incontinence. Apart from physical discomfort, an overactive bladder causes embarrassment for the affected person. Healthy functioning of the bladder requires a healthy urinary tract. Also, the communication channels between the nerves and the bladder muscles need to be uninterrupted. An improper communication passage or unhealthy urinary tract causes involuntary contractions of the urinary bladder. These involuntary contractions trigger overactive bladder symptoms. Causes of Overactive bladder Involuntary contractions of the bladder lead to urge incontinence. It may not always be possible to pinpoint the exact cause of these contractions. Based on the accompanying symptoms, the doctor may identify overactive bladder causes as the following: Neurological conditions Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and multiple sclerosis cause interruption between your nerves and bladder, which leads to urine incontinence. Damage to nerves Any damage to the nerves leading to the bladder causes overactive bladder. These nerves may be damaged due to an injury to the spine, abdomen or pelvis. In some cases, surgery to these parts may accidentally damage the nerve leading to the bladder. Urinary tract infection An infection of the urinary tract affects the activity of the bladder wall. As a result of the infection, the bladder becomes overactive causing urine incontinence. Medication Side effects of certain medicines cause OAB. Consumption of water pills or caffeine pills or diuretics causes increased bladder activity. Blockages Obstructions in the urinary tract could trigger symptoms of OAB. Enlargement of the prostate, tumors, and bladder stones are overactive bladder causes. Pregnancy The uterus of pregnant women expands to accommodate the fetus. Expanded uterus pressurizes the bladder, which in turn causes frequent urination. For some women, urge incontinence continues even after childbirth.