A spasm or cramp is an involuntary contraction of a muscle. Muscle spasms can happen at any time and are quite painful. It usually goes away on its own, without much treatment. However, if the spasm is extremely painful, and does not resolve by itself or recurs, it is imperative to seek medical care as it may be an indication of a serious underlying medical problem. Typically, muscle spasms involve a whole muscle, a specific part of it, or various muscles in a group. The most common sites for muscle spasms are hands, foot, arms, thighs, calves, abdomen, and sometimes along the ribcage. These spasms vary in intensity ranging from mild twitches to severe and disabling pain. The spastic muscle may become sensitive to touch and in a few cases, appears visibly distorted. These spasms may last for a couple of seconds or up to 20 minutes or longer. Also, they may recur several times a day. Muscle spasms can happen to anyone. Irrespective of whether you are old, young, athletic or sedentary, it can happen to you. Also, it can occur while you are sitting, walking, exercising, or even sleeping. Many people who undertake regular physical exercise experience spasms. Causes of muscle spasms The exact cause of muscle spasm is not known. However, according to some research studies, here are some factors that can lead to muscle spasms: Dehydration Insufficient stretching before exercise Electrolyte depletion Muscle fatigue Exercising in high temperatures Altered neuromuscular control Performing a new activity Out of all the causes mentioned above, exercising in high temperatures is believed to be the most significant one. When you work out in the heat, you sweat a lot, and sweat contains fluids as well as electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, salt, and potassium). When the level of these vital nutrients falls beyond a certain limit, the chance of muscle spasm increases.

Battling with scalp psoriasis can be a frustrating and even embarrassing affair. Here are some dos and don’ts that may be helpful in dealing with the disorder. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder of the skin, which is marked by red, flaky, and thickened patches of skin on a person’s body. In several cases, these symptoms occur on the scalp, a condition referred to as scalp psoriasis. This usually causes dry, scaly, red patches of skin on your scalp, and causes it to be covered in silvery scales. It may also cause thick, crusted areas on the scalp, with the plaque peeling off in clumps. Removing this crust can cause bleeding on your scalp too. Symptoms of scalp psoriasis such as itching, redness, and flaky areas can range from mild to severe, and either manifest themselves in small areas or spread all over your scalp. If you are suffering from scalp psoriasis, you know how frustrating it can get. Although not a life-threatening disease, this skin disorder can take a toll on your mental health and social life as it not only causes considerable discomfort, but can be an embarrassing condition as well. There are various treatment options for scalp psoriasis, which include prescription treatments and over-the-counter medications. In addition to these treatments, you can make some lifestyle changes that will help you battle this annoying condition. Here are some simple tips that can go a long way in reducing your scalp psoriasis symptoms and flare-ups. Refrain from using anti-dandruff shampoos Most of the time, people who have scalp psoriasis are advised to use shampoos that contain salicylic acid frequently. While this may work for some people, you may not realize that this acid works by chemically burning the flakes off your scalp. The surfactants used in the shampoo are compounds that are targeted towards removing the oils from your hair.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial in maintaining good health. The body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are bacteria that are beneficial as they promote a good and healthy digestive system. They also bring with them several benefits that are linked to an individual’s overall well-being and keep diseases away. There are several kinds of bacteria that are classified as probiotics. However, the two most common groups include the following: Bifidobacterium – This is a bacterium that is found in a few kinds of dairy products. It is beneficial in easing out the symptoms of several kinds of digestive conditions. Lactobacillus – Lactobacillus is one of the most common kinds of probiotics. It is widely found in food products that are fermented; however, a large portion is found in yogurt, a dairy product. It is extremely beneficial and aids in treating irregular bowel movements. Here are some of the health benefits that come with regularly consuming probiotics: Aids in weight loss – Probiotics help in making one feel fuller for longer. They also burn calories and prevent the body from storing fat. This is because it prevents the absorption of dietary fats and flushes out the same through one’s bowel movement. However, it is necessary to understand that not all probiotics aid in weight loss. There are some that can even lead to excess weight gain. Boosts the immune system – A strong immune system keeps infections and other diseases at bay. Probiotics help in boosting the immune system and increases the production of natural antibodies in the system. They also prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut. Helps in digestion – Many people suffer from digestive issues and probiotics have a good effect on the same. It is helpful for people who suffer from irregular bowel movements and conditions related to it such as bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition wherein a person experiences chronic inflammation in the joints. This autoimmune disease is caused when the immune system that protects the body from bacteria and viruses begins attacking the joints. The inflamed tissues cause the inside of the joints to thicken, thereby leading to severe pain. It can also cause bone erosion and joint deformity in the long run. The most commonly affected joints include the hands, elbows, ankles, and wrists. If the inflammation goes unnoticed, the condition can affect other body systems and cause severe physical disabilities. The cardiovascular and respiratory systems are usually affected. Rheumatoid arthritis disorder begins with minor signs that occur every once in a while; however, with each passing week and month, the symptoms progress and become more severe. The symptoms that one individual experiences may not be the same as another. Moreover, the signs tend to differ with each passing day. Here are rheumatoid arthritis symptoms that one may experience: Joint stiffness – Stiffness in the joints is one of the most common rheumatoid arthritis symptoms that people experience. This stiffness is often felt in the smaller joints, especially in the initial weeks. It begins with the hands and moves to the lower parts of the body, increasing rapidly over the course of two to three days. This stiffness can occur at any time, irrespective of whether one is walking down the street or wakes up from a nap. Pain in the joints – When the joints begin to feel stiff, the same is followed by pain in the joints during an activity or even while resting. This is also one of the most common rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Most commonly, pain may occur in the fingers and knees. However, the pain may become severe and continue to grow in the shoulders and feet.

Diabetes, a lifelong disease is increasingly affecting a large population of the world. It is a condition in which hormone insulin levels are disrupted. Insulin is released by the pancreas, in order to help the body store the sugar and use fat from the food we consume. However, in case of a diabetic patient, the pancreas produces little or no insulin. In a few cases, diabetes may be triggered when the body does not respond well to the insulin produced. Diabetes can be classified into three types – type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the insulin is not produced, and insulin has to be injected into the body. This is a type of diabetes may occur at any age but is common among people below the age of 20 years. On the other hand, people with type 2 diabetes do not produce enough insulin or the insulin is not used up properly. Symptoms of diabetes The symptoms of diabetes may occur before or after the onset of the condition. They may occur suddenly and may be severe in few patients. Here are some symptoms of diabetes. Increased thirst – People who have diabetes tend to feel thirsty every short while. The mouth feels dry at all times. This symptom may prevail even when a person is well-hydrated. Frequent urination – Increased thirst is accompanied by the need to visit the toilet every short while. Blurred vision – Eyesight begins to feel hazy, and the vision blurs. This symptom is a major indicator of type 1 diabetes. Numbness – There may be numbness or tingling in the feet or hands. This is usually mild in the beginning but feels more bothersome after a while. Slow-healing – A significant symptom of diabetes includes the slow-healing of cuts and wounds.

Everybody has seen the occurrence of dark circles at one point or the other in their life. Now, what exactly are these dark circles? It is a condition where the skin under the eyes of an individual gets pigmented. Dark circles do not pose any serious threat to one’s health. However, they are believed to be aesthetically displeasing and may lead to low self-confidence. While the cause of these dark circles is often not dangerous, however, if these are persistent, there might be a serious ailment behind. The skin under the eyes is very fragile, because of which dark circles are prominent specifically in that area. The reason behind their appearance range from nonserious issues such as inadequate sleep, excessive consumption of alcohol, stress, allergies, old age to severe ones such as periorbital cellulitis, hyperthyroidism, and liver ailment. Dark circles may also be inherited from one’s parents. It is an arduous task to heal these dark circles. Hence, it becomes essential to have an improved lifestyle to prevent their development. The different ways in which dark circles can be treated are as follows: Potato juice – Yes, potatoes are not only meant for eating but also for healing purposes. Placing a cloth dipped in the juice of raw potatoes on the eyes for a few minutes daily makes this an effective dark circle treatment option. Slices of cucumber – Cucumbers are refreshing and known for their water content. Chilled cucumber slices, when placed on the eyes, provide a cooling effect, and these are also a great dark circle treatment option. Tea bags – This is an age old tried and tested remedy. The tea bags used to make your favorite green tea can be refrigerated and used as one of the dark circle treatments. Meditation – Insomnia is one of the major reasons behind the occurrence of dark circles.

People across all age groups experience the problem in sleeping at some or the other time. These sleep disorders occur due to varying reasons including personal or professional stress, illness with self or family and many other reasons which change with time. This disorder cannot be taken lightly as it might result in weight gain and problem in dealing with challenging situations in life. Symptoms of sleep disorder A person might experience sleeping problems which continue for a while. These can be some minor sleep problems and can take a toll on your health in the longer run. Before we dwell into detailed reasons of sleep deprivation, it is essential to consider if a person who is suffering from this health complication feels sleepy during day hours or finds it difficult to concentrate. Sometimes people also find it difficult to control their emotions or require beverages having caffeine to keep them going. If any of the following symptoms of sleep disorders appear in a person, it is almost certain that they are suffering from the sleep disorder. Insomnia If a person is unable to sleep at night, it can be understood that the individual is suffering from insomnia. This particular sleep disorder occurs due to the stress condition, jet lag or the habit of taking excess tea or coffee. To get over this sleep disorder, the person should revise their sleeping trends and learn some relaxation techniques. Sleep apnea Sometimes a person wakes multiple times during the night. This happens as they feel suffocation and experience lack of breath. These are the symptoms of sleep disorder which are known as sleep apnea. Such people despite sleeping on time during night hours experience restlessness during the day. If you have experienced such a medical condition, consider these as symptoms of sleep apnea and seek immediate suitable medical assistance.

Diarrhea is a medical condition that lasts a few days. In some cases, it gets treated by itself needs no treatment. However, sometimes, diarrhea gets so serious that it can last longer. If not treated on time, this can become fatal. Therefore, it is recommended to see a doctor if symptoms of diarrhea will become severe. When it comes to medication for diarrhea, not all people know that a medication for an adult is not for a child suffering from diarrhea. It is advised to seek the advice of a pediatrician when buying a treatment for children suffering from this condition. Here are some ways listed for the treatment of diarrhea. Hydrate well A person suffering from diarrhea is most likely to dehydrate frequently. Diarrhea exhausts away most essential body liquids from the body. Thus, it is important to keep fully hydrated when suffering from diarrhea. If your child is suffering from this condition, try to provide him with liquid drinks such as water, juice, and other liquid forms to keep him hydrated. The major concern is water-like stools that cause weakness and loss of liquid content to a patient’s body. Let’s see how to keep a person well hydrated in a serious condition as diarrhea. Keeping hydrated is one effective way for the treatment of diarrhea. Drink sports drinks Sports drinks are high in essential nutrients and fluids sources that a body tends to lose when suffering from diarrhea. Moreover, they come is a variety of flavors. Presence of sugar and salt content in sports drink let body absorb such drinks well. One way to make sports drink at home is by adding a teaspoon of salt to a quart of apple juice. This salt content in the drink help the body absorb fluids. In addition, it is advised to keep the drink on room temperature.

Rotator cuff repair is the term given to the surgical process where a torn tendon in the shoulder is repaired through the operation. There are three different kinds of surgeries to treat rotator cuff tears. These are open repair, arthroscopic repair and mini-open repair. The last one combines both arthroscopic and open techniques. Open Rotator Cuff Surgery This surgical procedure involves a several centimeters long incision over the shoulder. The surgeon to get near to the torn tendon to repair it has to separate the shoulder muscle. Open Rotator Cuff Repair is suggested for: Patients with complicated and large tears Patients who need tendon transfers and other reconstruction procedures Severe rotator cuff injuries are treated with the tendon transfer option. It happens since the damaged tendons could not be reattached to the top of the humerus. In such situations, a tendon from a different part of the body, preferably the latissimus dorsi, present in the back, is put to use to repair the rotator cuff. The surgeon may even remove bone spurs during the operation. Osteophytes are a sign of osteoarthritis which causes shoulder pain. It also affects shoulder joint function. Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Patients those who have small to medium sized tears, which is about three centimeters or smaller are suggested arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. It is an outpatient surgery and is the least invasive of the different rotator cuff repair procedures. Arthroscopic surgery is done by making small incisions, each not more than a centimeter long. This means less pain, shorter recovery period and a reduced risk of complications for the patient. This procedure requires the doctor to insert surgical instruments and a small camera through small incisions. Mini-Open Rotator Cuff Repair This procedure uses both open surgery and arthroscopic techniques. Arthroscopy is used to assess the injury, for bone spurs trimming and lose cartilage removal.

In Spring, the rate of pollens is high in the environment that can cause different types of pollen allergies. Pollen allergy is one of the most popular allergies that many people suffer from. If you are the sensitive one, who always faces problem in spring season due to pollen allergy, then, of course, preventing this is not an easy task for you. People who are prone to the outer environment and involve traveling in their daily activity might experience pollen allergy. Yes, you will find many medications that give you pollen allergy relief. These medications can’t prevent the allergy for a long time. But, you can avoid this problem by keeping a few tips to your daily lifestyle routine. You might not need to go for a consultation with your doctor and pay high fees to them for providing pollen allergy relief. We have arranged some useful tips to keep you safe from this seasonal allergy. Add Vitamin D to your diet Studies have proved that a person who takes vitamin D in the daily diet, have fewer chances to get affected by allergies. If you want to stay away from pollen allergies, then it is a useful tip that you add vitamin D to your diet schedule. Some dairy products, orange juice, soy milk, cereals, cheese and egg yolks are the most abundant source of vitamin D. So, just add these supplements to your diet and feel the change. Clean carpet Carpets are the home of dust, mites, and molds. And, in the spring season, pollen partials also gets attached to the carpet and increases the chances of pollen allergy. It can come along with your shoes. So, make sure that you clean your carpet regularly. Do not avoid cleaning the carpet of your bedroom especially because it is the only place where you spend at least 8 hours of sleep.

Caused by the varicella-zoster virus, shingles can be described as a painful skin rash. Also known as herpes zoster, it usually appears as a strip, band, or infects a small area on one side of the face or body. It is therefore imperative to know about the symptoms and shingles pain treatment options to be able to fight it effectively. Shingles is a painful nerve root infection that occurs when the chickenpox causing virus gets activated in the body. After chickenpox is treated, the virus becomes dormant in the nerves. Although this virus mostly remains dormant, in others, the virus becomes active, usually in old age when the body’s immunity is comparatively weaker. Also, certain medications can trigger this virus, however, once active, it is unable to cause chickenpox. Seniors or people with a weak immune system are prone to shingles. Stress, medications and injuries can make the immune system vulnerable causing the varicella-zoster virus to activate. Usually, people suffering from shingles get better and do not suffer from it again. However, there are cases where people can get shingles more than once. Although non-communicable, it can still be transmitted from someone who has shingles. However, this possibility is pretty rare, so the chances of shingles spreading from a person who has had chickenpox to the one who has not are negligible. Shingles pain treatment vaccines are available for adults. These medications help in lowering the chances of getting affected with shingles, it clears the rashes quickly and also helps to prevent long-term pain that usually occurs after shingles. Symptoms The symptoms of shingles show up in different stages. It begins with a headache or extreme sensitivity to light. Some people also experience flu but do not have a fever or high temperature.The second stage marks itching, pain, or tingling sensation in a particular area.

To start with, Sinusitis is an inflammation or a swelling of the tissues that line the sinuses. Generally, the healthy Sinuses are filled in with air, but when these get filled with fluids, germs tend to accumulate and cause infections. The infections can be caused due to a common cold, swelling of the lining of the nose, nasal polyps which are basically the small growths in the lining of the nose, or a shift in the nasal cavity can also cause Sinus problems. A lot of people suffer from sinus pressure because of temperature changes, and a lot of them develop it because of pollen allergies as well. Sinus could be acute, subacute, chronic or recurrent. Sinuses are located all throughout the face in the form of small pockets, they are located below the cheeks, behind the eyebrows and the forehead, either side of the nose and also behind the nose. Sinus is a very common problem these days, and a lot of population suffers from the same. A large number of children are also now prone to sinus due to different allergies, or a common cold. The smoke in the air is also responsible for children to get sinus issues. There are obviously medical ways to treat sinus, but below are some easy and self ‘To-do’ methods to relieve sinus pressure and breathe a sigh of relief finally. The best way is to do is to realize what triggers the sinus issue and try to stay away from it or avoid that situation as much possible. Humidifier : The first thing would be is to use a humidifier or vaporizer, basically, inhale steam to open up the blocked nose and the nasal area. Steam inhalation has been proved to be one of the best remedies to cure a common cold which later on can lead to Sinus.