A hiatal hernia is a condition where the upper stomach region pushes into the chest region. Hiatus is an opening between the stomach and diaphragm area. The diaphragm is a muscle which helps in the breathing process, the stomach area pushes itself into the diaphragm through the opening called hiatus. Normally People above the age 50 suffer from this condition. The causes for a hiatal hernia are not exactly known. In many people, an injury to the muscle tissue or damage caused to the muscle tissue can cause this condition. Another cause is the repeated pressure faced by the muscles around the stomach due to coughing, strain during bowel movements, the strain caused due to lifting heavy objects etc. Some people are born with this condition. Some factors such as obesity, old age, lifestyle habits can cause a hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia can be classified into two types known as sliding Hiatal hernias and fixed Hiatal hernias. A sliding hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach and esophagus are a common type of hernias where the stomach and esophagus push into the chest area through hiatus. These hernias are small and usually don’t require any treatment. Another type of a hiatal hernia is the fixed hiatal hernia. In fixed hiatal hernia also known as a para esophageal hernia, the upper part of the stomach can push through the diaphragm and stays there. Many such cases of fixed hiatal hernia are not serious but the flow of the blood to the stomach can be stopped in some cases which can cause a serious issue. A hiatal hernia is diagnosed using a specialized x-ray where the doctor can see the esophagus or a hernia can be diagnosed through endoscopy. The symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain can be related to fixed hiatal hernia and should be diagnosed properly for this condition.

Cholesterol plays a vital role in the normal functioning of the body. It is made in the liver and mainly helps in keeping the cell walls of the body flexible and also plays an important role in making several hormones. Then again just like too much of anything is bad, so is too much cholesterol in the body. Just like fat, cholesterol doesn’t dissolve in water, and instead, it floats in the blood with the help of lipoproteins. Now, different types of lipoproteins have different effects on a person’s health. It has been observed that high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cause cholesterol to deposit in the walls of the blood vessels. This can lead to strokes, clogged arteries, kidney failure, and heart attacks. On the other hand, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) helps carry cholesterol away from the walls of the blood vessels and it prevents various diseases. So, let’s take a look at a few of the natural methods to reduce cholesterol levels. Focus more on monounsaturated fats Unsaturated fats tend to have a double chemical bond, which changes the way they are processed by the body. Monounsaturated fats have only one double bond. Many experts recommend having a low-fat diet for weight loss, but the problem with this diet is that it also reduces the beneficial HDL cholesterol from the body. In contrast, a diet rich in monounsaturated fats has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels or the harmful LDL, but it maintained the healthy HDL level in the body. Monounsaturated fats are good for health as they tend to reduce the level of harmful LDL cholesterol, increase the levels of good HDL cholesterol and inhibit harmful oxidation. Following are some good sources of monounsaturated fats. Avocados Olives and olive oil Tree nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, almonds, hazelnuts, and cashews Canola oil Use polyunsaturated fats, such as Omega-3s Polyunsaturated fats tend to have several double bonds, which changes the way they are used by the body.

Peyronie’s disease is caused by repeated injury to the penile region either during sex or other activities. In this condition, a fibrous scar tissue is present inside the penis that causes it to bend in a particular way such that it makes the erection very painful. However, it should not be confused with other types of erections, such as a curved erection. Not all types of curved erection lead to the development of Peyronie’s disease. Men who face this disease may face trouble having intercourse. However, there are different types of treatment options and remedies available for treating Peyronie’s disease. Some of the popular remedies have been listed as follows. Remedies for Peyronie’s disease With certain treatment options and proper and timely consultation, one can manage Peyronie’s disease effectively. The following pointers are some of the most commonly recommended remedies for this condition. Use of medicines A doctor may recommend certain kinds of medicines for managing the symptoms of Peyronie’s disease. The medication will aid in breaking down of any build-up of collagen in the penis. This will help in straightening the penis to an extent. Iontophoresis Iontophoresis is yet another of the recommended Peyronie’s disease remedy option. This is a process by which an electric current, which is weak in nature, helps in delivering the medicines through the skin. This also helps in controlling the curving of the penile muscles, thus helping in straightening it even though for a short duration. Changes in lifestyle Doctors often recommend certain changes in one’s lifestyle of the patient as a remedy for Peyronie’s disease. The disease in various cases has been observed to be the result of an erratic lifestyle. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with occasional cheat-days is often advised by medical professionals. This is a small step which can go a long way if followed sincerely.

For anyone who is over the age of 20, cholesterol levels should be checked intermittently every 5 years to keep a track record of health. The test used to screen cholesterol levels is known as lipid profile, and it is recommended by experts that women above the age of 45 years and men above the age of 35 years should get frequent screenings done to check for lipid disorders. The aspects covered by the lipoprotein profile include the following: Total cholesterol LDL (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, more famously known as “bad” cholesterol) HDL (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, more commonly known as “good” cholesterol) Triglycerides (fats that are carried into the blood from the food that is consumed. Too much of alcohol, sugar or calories in the body get converted to triglycerides that are stored in fat cells throughout the body.) The results of the blood test for the lipid profile come in the forms of numbers. The numbers indicated in the test should not be the only proof to predict the risk of any potential heart problems. They also cannot help formulate ways in which the predicted risk can be lowered. These numbers are simply part of a much larger equation under which other factors like age, blood pressure, sugar levels, hormone profile, smoking habits, use of medications and other factors are also accounted for. This complete information profile is used by the doctor to calculate the 10-year risk a person may be at for serious heart problems. Once the key areas have been identified, a health strategy may be developed to reduce the risk. The test report shows all cholesterol levels in a measure of milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL). Total cholesterol and HDL (good) cholesterol are one of the many factors that are considered by a doctor to predict a 10-year risk assessment or a lifetime risk assessment regarding heart disease, like heart attacks or strokes.

Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood flowing in the blood vessels. Blood vessels carry blood pumped by the heart to all parts of the body. Proper supply of blood requires an optimum level of blood pressure and anything above or below this level is a cause of concern. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg, where 120 is systolic pressure and 80 is diastolic. Blood pressure measuring 130-139/80-89 mmHg is considered as the first stage of hypertension, and pressures above 140/90 mmHg are considered as the second stage of hypertension. Pressure above 180/120 warrants immediate medical treatment. Prolonged hypertension results in thickening of the blood vessel walls (atherosclerosis). Other health complications caused by hypertension are a stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure. How to lower your blood pressure? This is an important question faced by those affected by hypertension. Read on to understand the causes of high blood pressure and ways to control high blood pressure. Causes of High Blood Pressure Hypertension is classified as primary and secondary hypertension. Primary or essential hypertension develops over time with no particular cause, whereas secondary hypertension occurs rapidly and becomes more severe than primary hypertension. Although the exact pressure cause of high blood pressure is not known, several risk factors are attributed to hypertension. When looking for information on how to lower your blood pressure, the common causes of hypertension should be understood first: Being Overweight Being overweight is a predisposition to developing high blood pressure. Excess body fat overloads the heart, which results in increased blood pressure. Smoking High blood pressure is among other health disorders caused by smoking. Lethargic Lifestyle Those leading a lethargic lifestyle without any physical workout are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. Unhealthy eating habits combined with a lethargic lifestyle result in fat deposits in blood vessels, which in turn narrow blood vessels.

The primary sex hormone for men is testosterone. However, a small amount of testosterone is present in the female body as well. The production of this hormone takes place in the testicles of men and ovaries of women. At the time of puberty, testosterone plays a crucial role in hair growth, changes in voice, and other physical changes. It is essential to have the right amount of testosterone throughout one’s lifetime. Here are some of the top natural testosterone boosters. Healthy eating One of the most important natural testosterone boosters is a healthy diet. So, one has to take good care of their dietary habits. If you eat too much, then it will disrupt the level of testosterone in your body. However, increasing the protein, carb, and fat intake can boost your testosterone levels. Consuming whole foods that have a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates can help in optimizing the hormone levels and improving one’s overall health condition. The bottom line is that you cannot overeat or restrict your overall calorie intake. Rather, you must focus on having a balanced diet that gives you protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Lower cortisol and stress levels An increase in the level of cortisol in your body can reduce your testosterone levels. Cortisol and testosterone affect each other inversely. If one increases, the other will inevitably go down. Too much cortisol and stress will increase your food intake, and lead to the storage of harmful fats in various organs of your body. Thus, these factors also play a vital role in weight gain. All these factors will result in a lower level of testosterone. Try to change your lifestyle and avoid stressful situations in your daily life. All of this will help you lower your cortisol and stress level, and boost your testosterone.

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can cause several other complications if not treated on time. It can lead to kidney failure, blindness, and other such serious conditions. If diagnosed in the initial stages, diabetes can be fought with. You certainly cannot change certain factors like age and genes but you can definitely reduce the risk of diabetes. Here are 10 diabetes control measures that you can use to keep the condition under control. Cut sugar as well as refined carbs from your diet You are more likely to develop diabetes if you eat high-sugar foods and refined carbs. The body tends to burn down this sugar rapidly which are then absorbed by the bloodstream. The rise in blood sugar prompts the pancreas to produce insulin. However, in those who have prediabetes, the body cells become resistant to the action of insulin. Therefore, the sugar remains in the blood. In response to this, the pancreas produces insulin. This goes on until both the blood sugar and insulin level increase in the body. Eventually, it leads to diabetes. This is why you should keep the consumption of carbs and sugar at the minimum. Exercise One of the most effective diabetes control measures is exercise. Regular physical activity can help in preventing diabetes. Exercise increases insulin sensitivity by over 85% when it is high-intensity. Aerobic exercises, strength training, and other such types of physical activities help a lot. It is advised to go for exercises that you actually enjoy and can stick to in the long run. Drink a lot of water Whenever you feel thirsty drink water instead of any other beverage. This will naturally help you stay away from any other beverage that might contain sugar. Drinking sugary beverages is linked to an increased risk of diabetes. It is a great idea to simply cut down from any type of sugary beverage so that you can only have healthy fluids.

The prostate gland has a direct relationship with pelvic organs such as the rectum, bladder, and pelvic muscles along with the central nervous system. If you are facing the symptoms of enlarged prostate including frequent urination, urinary leakage, and urinary tract infections, among others, then it is vital to seek different remedies. Men with enlarged prostate also suffer from symptoms of anxiety, depression, and even insomnia. Initially, it is best to seek the opinion of a medical professional to establish the extent of the condition. In some cases, the enlargement of the prostate is indicative of an underlying health issue. Thus, it is essential to fully evaluate the treatment options for enlarged prostate before opting for natural treatments. Natural treatments for an enlarged prostate If your problem is at the initial stage and is not yet severe, treatment options may include acupuncture, prostate massage, herbal and nutritional supplements, medical hypnosis, and relaxation. However, if your condition is advanced, then you should depend upon the advice of an experienced health professional. Sometimes, surgeries may be required to remove excess prostate tissue. This procedure is vital to restore full urinary functioning. The traditional treatment, however, includes pharmaceutical medicines that help to alleviate the symptoms and address the root cause of the enlarged prostate. Keep in mind that these medicines may have potential side effects. So, it is best to opt for natural treatments for an enlarged prostate. These include: Adjustments in lifestyle It is only through improvement in your lifestyle that can you address the problem. Here are some natural lifestyle changes that can help with the treatment of an enlarged prostate: Shedding extra weight Eating a healthy diet which is rich in antioxidants Consuming lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains Increasing the intake of leafy, dark vegetables, and tomatoes Consuming products that contain phytoestrogens, such as soy foods, chickpeas, alfalfa, and fava beans Avoiding red meat, starchy refined foods, carbonated drinks, and nicotine Minimizing alcohol consumption to approximately two drinks per day Reducing caffeine consumption Consuming minimum water right before bedtime Staying hydrated by drinking at least two liters of water daily Walking regularly Incorporating a healthy exercise schedule Learning yoga techniques for reducing the size of the prostate Exploring herbal options Saw palmetto is one of the most common herbal treatments for an enlarged prostate.

A toenail infection occurs due to the excess growth of fungi in, under, or on the nail. Fungi that already exist in or on your body can prompt nail infections. Fungi flourish in moist and warm conditions, and hence, this type of environment can trigger them to overpopulate. Fungal infections also spread if you come in contact with someone else who has a fungal infection. These infections develop over time, and there won’t be any immediate difference in the way your nail looks or feels. Therefore, it may be too subtle to notice at first. What causes toenail fungus infections? Various fungal organisms lead to toenail fungus infections. Yeast and molds can also cause this problem. The most common condition is triggered by a type of fungus called dermatophyte. Toenail fungal infection starts from athlete’s foot (foot fungus) and spreads from one nail to another. Even though most of the causes of a fungal nail infection are preventable, some risk factors increase the possibility of its recurrence. More men face the problem of toenail fungus than women, and also it is observed in adults more often than in children. You are more likely to get it if any of your family members gets these types of fungal infections. Because of the poor circulation and slow nail growth, older adults are at the highest risk of getting fungal infections. Also, as the nail ages, it becomes brittle, and the resulting cracks let the fungi enter the nail. The main risk factors for toenail infections are as follows: People with diabetes or who have diseases that cause poor circulation are prone to develop toenail fungus. People over the age of 65 are more likely to develop a nail infection. People who wear artificial nails or wear closed-toe shoes, such as tennis shoes or boots more often can get toenail infection.

Blood pressure refers to the force of the blood flowing through your body which is pumped through by the heart. When this force exceeds the standard limit which is considered safe, the resulting condition is known as high blood pressure. There are varying levels of high blood pressure on a high blood pressure chart, and it is estimated that around 80 to 90 million people in the country suffer a variety of health problems due to this condition. These estimates are alarming because, among three adults over the age of 20, one of them is suffering from high blood pressure in the total count. Before we can try and understand how to read a high blood pressure chart, it is important to understand the five main types of blood pressure: It is important to understand the two categories of levels which indicate blood pressure, namely systolic and diastolic levels. Systolic levels are the numbers in the upper section which indicates how much pressure is being put on the walls of any artery when the heart pumps blood. Diastolic levels, however, are the numbers in the lower section which indicate the pressure on the walls in between heartbeats. So, both during heartbeats and in between, the upper and lower numbers together will indicate the overall blood pressure levels. Normal blood pressure: The standard range for blood pressure as calculated by medical associations is 120/80 mmHg. People who follow a lifestyle including a well-balanced diet and exercise will never have any problems relating to high blood pressure. This is the standard limit set for understanding the proper range of the analysis of a high blood pressure chart. Early stage high blood pressure: Also known as prehypertension, this field is constantly shifting from 120–139/80–89 mmHg. The first stage high blood pressure is a cause for concern since these are the initial indicators of a developing high blood pressure.

Cholesterol is not bad for your heart and health as long as it is good cholesterol, i.e., high-density lipoprotein cholesterol or simply HDL cholesterol. The opposite of HDL cholesterol is the low-density cholesterol, simply, LDL cholesterol. It is when your body has a high amount of LDL cholesterol, you face many health related problems and creates an urgent need for high LDL cholesterol treatments. It is important to get all the possible high LDL cholesterol treatments done because here is what the bad cholesterol does to your body: It can affect your nervous system Brain contains essential cholesterol for development and protection of nerve cells Too much of cholesterol is harmful to your brain as it can lead to strokes When blood flow to the brain is disrupted, it can lead to loss of memory, movement and other functions Bad affects on cardiovascular and circulatory system Too much cholesterol builds up in the arteries, and that disrupts the blood flow in your body and created serious and life threatening problems The built up cholesterol in the arteries creates atherosclerosis, and that leads to heart diseases, including heart attack Apart from heart diseases, it can also cause diseases in the arteries called peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In this disease, the blood supply to the legs, arms, stomach, and feet can get blocked because of the plaque that’s been created by LDL cholesterol. Endocrine system When the endocrine system produces low thyroid hormone, the condition is called hypothyroidism, and that leads to higher LDL cholesterol When other therapies relating to the hormones are done to prevent other effects, there can be a rise in LDL cholesterol Digestive system Cholesterol helps in the formation of bile, which is essential for digestion. But bad cholesterol and its excess can lead to formation of small crystals The crystals cause hard stones in the gall bladder.

Willis-Ekbom disease, which is commonly termed as restless leg syndrome or RLS, is a common condition experienced by many people in the United States. As the name indicates, the problem occurs in the legs and makes it difficult to get him in a stationary position. People suffering from restless leg syndrome always get the urge for moving their legs. Though the condition can occur at any time of the day, it mostly develops from late afternoon or from the onset of evening. Reports indicate that patients suffering from restless leg syndrome experience the worst condition when they rest or sleep at night. Restless leg syndrome, even though is restricted to the lower part of the body, is actually a neurological problem. The condition is caused and controlled by the brain. Therefore, getting a temporary remedy for the condition is not enough. To get complete relief, one needs to treat the condition from within. Some of the restless leg syndrome remedies have been mentioned below: Iron intake – In many cases, it has been found that people with a low iron content in their blood are susceptible to this condition. If you are also among them, you need to increase the intake foods, which are rich in iron; this can prove to be a great restless leg syndrome remedy. Apart from that, you can also get some iron supplements, which are available at different pharmacies. Restless leg syndrome improves as the iron level of your body is balanced. Yet, digesting the iron supplements can be a bit difficult initially and you may develop irregular bowel syndromes. However, do not stop the intake as the side-effects will fade in due course of time. Bring some changes in your lifestyle – Restless leg syndrome can be a lifestyle disease as well. If it is the case with you, then it is recommended to bring some positive changes to your lifestyle.