Fewer than three bowels movements a week is referred to as constipation. Constipation also implies having to strain too much to create bowel movement or pass stools that are dry, hard and small. But once the s evere constipation causes are known, there are various steps and treatments that can be implemented to cure and prevent it. The main causes of severe constipation are usually associated with diet and lifestyle, although there may occur some medical conditions that can also become a cause. In terms of lifestyle, a poor diet and sedentary, inactive lifestyle are the common s evere constipation causes . The human digestive system suffers greatly when consumption of junk food is not monitored, and unhealthy eating habits can wreak havoc on the human digestive system. Factors directly linked to the diet that can create conditions for constipation are: Foods containing high levels of fat and sugar Low levels of water Low levels of other fluids Dairy products Lack of foods that contain high fiber like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Too much caffeine or alcohol Another very important factor is the importance of defecating as soon as the need arises, instead of putting it off for a more convenient time or place, since delays can make the body move into a phase of constipation. Sometimes, changes in the normal routine also cause digestive and bowel problems, as the human body is designed for routine. Sporadic use of bathroom, inconsistent activity, dietary changes, inadequate water consumption and general lack of exercise are some examples. It is therefore important while traveling or changing the schedule to eat high fiber foods that are healthy and drink enough water, along with a little bit of exercise to help the body maintain its physiological habits. Medications can be another cause of constipation since frequently prescribed medications can serve constipation as a common side effect.

Erectile dysfunction, also called impotence, is the last thing that any man would like to experience in their lifetime. It not just hampers a man’s sexual life, it also has an adverse effect on his social and mental wellbeing. Studies have indicated that erectile dysfunction is one of the common sexual problems experienced by men in the United States and every year around thirty million people seek treatment for the improving the condition. Erectile dysfunction often affects the self-esteem of men in an adverse way and many hesitate to express their problems. If you too experience similar conditions, it will be better for you to get treatment instead of confining yourself. The following are some of the most effective ED treatments. Rhodiola Rosea – Studies have proven the fact that consuming 200gm of Rhodiola Rosea daily for three months can bring back the lost charm of your sexual life. Consuming this herb as per instruction will not just help you get back the erection, it will also help you retain the erection for a significant period of time. This is one of the most effective ED treatments. Panax ginseng – Also known as the red ginseng, this is a popular choice among men not only in the United States but also all across the globe. Popularly known as the natural Viagra, it has time and again proven itself as the best choice for treating erectile problems. The high anti-inflammatory property of the herb helps in getting an erection by improving the flow of blood throughout the body, including the penis. Not just that, it also gives a boost to the lung function. Thus, you can improve your overall health along with your sexual health, thereby making it one of the most effective ED treatments. Surgical treatment for erectile dysfunction – Medications are available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Cholesterol levels vary with age, gender and weight. A human body starts to produce more cholesterol with time. Thus, it is important for an adult to check their cholesterol levels every four to six years ideally, sooner than later. There are three categories in which cholesterol is measured: Total cholesterol HDL or good cholesterol LDL or bad cholesterol Most people struggle to balance these levels. It is important to keep LDL and total cholesterol level in check. However, having increased levels of HDL cholesterol would offer protection against developing heart-related ailments like strokes and heart attacks. How cholesterol levels differ with age? Cholesterol levels increase with age due to various reasons related to health and lifestyle. Thus, doctors recommend taking precaution early on in life to avoid high levels of cholesterol development as a person grows older. Unmanaged cholesterol developed in the past years would be quite difficult to treat. Children are rarely diagnosed with high cholesterol levels and thus they need to have their levels checked only once or twice before they are 18 years old. Children who are at risks of having high cholesterol levels due to other health conditions, they must check their levels frequently. It is seen that males tend to have increased levels of cholesterol than women throughout their life. It increases with age. However, it is not rare to see high cholesterol level in women as well. The levels in women increase when they go through menopause. Healthy levels as per different age group Healthy levels of cholesterol do not differ much in adults. The recommended levels change due to additional health conditions and considerations. Ideal cholesterol levels in adults The total cholesterol levels in an adult should be below 200 mg/dL. If the range is between 200 and 239 mg/dL, it is considered borderline high.

The total cholesterol or the total blood cholesterol is a measure of HDL cholesterol level, LDL cholesterol level, and other lipid components. Total cholesterol is not actually a type of cholesterol but a composite of the different types of cholesterol. Twenty percent of the triglyceride level plus the LDL and HDL cholesterol level score gives the total cholesterol score of a person. For anyone who is over the age of 20, cholesterol levels should be checked every five years to keep a track record of health. The test that used to screen the cholesterol levels is known as the 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 risk for heart disease is determined on the basis of the total cholesterol number by a doctor who can devise a medical health plan to lower the risk. Overall, regular routine checkups, an active lifestyle, and a clean diet with the minimum intake of triglycerides are said to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The aspects covered under 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 the fat cells throughout the body.) 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 in terms of heart disease like heart attacks or strokes.

Diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels due to the inability of the pancreas to secrete sufficient insulin or the body’s inability to effectively use the secreted insulin. In fact, diabetes mellitus is a silent killer, and if a person suffers from high blood pressure along with diabetes, it can prove to be fatal. Studies have reported that approximately 37% of the global population is diabetic and these figures are rising due to increased incidence of obesity and other lifestyle habits. An Insight Into Diabetes Diabetes can manifest in two types. People usually develop type 1 diabetes or diabetes mellitus in adulthood. Sufferers of type 1 diabetes are completely insulin dependent. Type 2 diabetes is more common and in this condition, the body does not produce enough insulin or body cells are insulin resistant. There is an increased incidence of juvenile diabetes and gestational diabetes. Medications and lifestyle changes can help manage the conditions effectively. Diabetes is a cause of adult blindness. Also, diabetics are at an increased risk of suffering from a fatal stroke. Moreover, they are prone to infections that do not heal quickly, resulting in amputation of the limbs. Hence, it is essential that blood sugar levels are constantly monitored with the help of a blood sugar chart. These charts serve as tools to determine the quantum of sugar that has accumulated in the blood. What Is A Blood Sugar Chart? A blood sugar chart helps track your blood glucose levels. The chart contains columns that keep a track of the date, and fasting and post-meal blood glucose levels. It also shows target readings which will help you conclude your current levels vis-a-vis the normal blood glucose levels. The normal blood sugar levels before meals range between 70-130 mg/dl. Post meals, that is about 2 hours after meals, the blood sugar levels should be below 180 mg/dl.

The inability to achieve an erection or maintain one for a period that is long enough for sexual intercourse is called impotence. Impotence can be caused due to some reasons that range from stress to genetics. Some of these causes can be combated through a combination of exercise, therapy, and medication. Recent studies suggest the link between impotence and lifestyle is more relevant than previously thought. A well-balanced diet, a consistent exercise routine, and a good night’s sleep are all key elements of any lifestyle. This is no different when we’re talking about sexual performance. It will help combat impotence to a certain degree. There may be deeper causes for the inability to perform sexually too. Impotence can be caused due to genetics, a bad injury or bad blood circulation. Fear not, to combat the type of impotence that isn’t lifestyle based; we bring you these amazing impotence home remedies. Cocoa Cocoa is considered medicinal in many parts of Africa, South America, and East Asia. Studies have proven that one of the key nutrients in cocoa, an antioxidant called flavonoids, can help combat impotence. Flavonoids help improve cardiovascular health by improving blood circulation and detoxifying the blood. Dark chocolate has high levels of cocoa; ensure any chocolate consumed is at least 70% dark. Milk chocolate has lower levels of flavonoids and higher levels of sugar and fat. Try avoiding milk chocolates. The improvement of blood circulation and the quality of blood will guarantee an overall improvement in every aspect of anyone’s health. This includes sexual health. Cocoa may be the tastiest of the available impotence home remedy. Apple Cider Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is one of the healthiest dietary components around. It is the most readily available impotence home remedy; it also is renowned for its ability to combat other ailments like diabetes, high cholesterol, and prostatitis.

Have you been battling with high cholesterol problems and are wondering how to lower LDL cholesterol levels? High cholesterol increases the risks of heart attacks and diseases. Although treatment may help improve your cholesterol levels, you still need to make essential lifestyle changes to boost the cholesterol-lowering power of the treatment. To help you make healthy lifestyle changes, some effective tips have been listed below on how to lower LDL cholesterol levels. Making some changes in the diet can help reduce the level of fat in the body and help enhance your heart’s health. The following changes can help you be on your way to having a healthy heart: Eliminate trans fats – Often labeled as partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, trans fats are used in store-bought crackers, cookies, cakes, as well as in margarine. They raise the levels of cholesterol in your body and that’s why most hydrogenated vegetable oils are not recommended for use when the LDL levels in the body are high. Reduce saturated fats – Primarily found in full-fat dairy products and red meat, saturated fats can raise your cholesterol levels. By decreasing consumption of saturated fats, you will be able to reduce LDL cholesterol levels in your body. Increase the intake of soluble fiber – Foods that are rich in soluble fiber are great at lowering cholesterol levels naturally. The soluble fiber reduces the absorption of cholesterol into the bloodstream. Therefore, consider eating more fiber-rich foods such as barley, yams, oats, sweet potatoes, oat bran, and other types of potatoes. Beans or legumes like black beans, peas, pinto beans, garbanzo beans, and kidney beans are also excellent sources of soluble fiber. Vegetables are also rich in soluble fiber so consider including beets, eggplant, carrots, okra, and Brussels sprouts in your diet. Some good fiber-rich fruits are oranges, passion fruit, berries, apricots, apples, pears, and nectarines.

The human joints can be considered as engineering marvels that bear an enormous amount of stress. They are body parts that not only connect your bones but also support and carry the weight of your body and facilitate easy movement. Prolonged daily functions can impose a huge strain on them. As a result, they suffer wear and tear, injuries, and damage, causing symptoms like pain, and reduced mobility and flexibility. Statistics show that there are at least 30 million adults in the country who currently live with joint pain. It can be a debilitating condition that prevents you from carrying on daily activities, engaging in sports, entertainment, and recreation. If it is severe, it could affect your career and almost all parts of your life. Based on the underlying cause, severity, and available resources, there are a variety of treatment options that can help provide quick joint pain relief. They include medications, injections, dietary supplements or changes, alternative therapy, massage, yoga, chiropractic options, surgery, lifestyle changes, and exercise. Causes of joint pain Some of the common causes of joint pain include the following: Inflammation Diseases or infections like arthritis and chikungunya Aging and natural wear and tear Accidents and injuries Impact and trauma Nerve damage Poor posture Over-use of certain parts of the body Lack of exercise; sedentary job and lifestyle Being overweight Certain autoimmune disorders Breakdown of cartilage in the knee joints Hypothyroidism Rheumatic fever Dislocation, sprains, and strains Bursitis There are some medicinal and natural remedies one can resort to when looking to get quick relief from joint pain. While acute symptoms caused by accidents, injuries, and certain diseases can be treated with over-the-counter medications or a course of antibiotics, certain other s ymptoms that are caused by lifestyle factors can be treated with exercise regimes, yoga, and even weight-loss.

A type of fat, cholesterol is lipid is essential for the body to function properly. However, too much cholesterol is bad for the health and can have an impact on the most vital organ of human body, the heart. Bad cholesterol often causes heart stroke and other heart-related diseases. Medical terms used by doctors to signify bad cholesterol include lipid disorder, hypercholesterolemia or hyperlipidemia. Cholesterol level diagnosis is made with a simple blood test called lipoprotein profile or fasting lipid. Following are the four numbers that are taken into consideration while performing cholesterol level diagnosis. These are: Total Blood or Serum Cholesterol This takes into account the total sum of High-Density Lipoprotein and High-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol scores.It is also a good indicator of whether the patient has a risk for heart disease. Optimal – Less than 200 mg/dL Borderline high – 200-239 mg/dL High – 240 mg/dL or higher High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Known as good cholesterol, High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) helps in keeping the arteries clear of blockage caused by low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. It is also known to protect people against heart disease. For this reason, higher HDL score is always good. But, if HDL falls below the marked range, it is considered that the patient is prone to suffer heart diseases. Low – Should be less than 40 mg/dL(men) and 50 mg/dL (women) Normal – 45 mg/dL + for men and 55 mg/dL + for women Optimal – 60 mg/dL and above lower danger of heart disease Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) High level of bad low-density lipoprotein cholesterol leads to blockage in arteries and increases chances of heart diseases. Thus, low level of bad LDL is always good to protect health. Optimal – Less than 100 mg/dL Normal/Near Optimal – 100-129 mg/dL Borderline High – 130-159 mg/dL High – 160-189 mg/dL Very High – 190 mg/dL and above People suffering from metabolic syndrome or heart diseases should ensure that their LDL is lower than the optimal number recommended.

Lower back pain can be caused due to an injury to the spine, muscles, or ligaments in the lower back area of the body. In some cases, it can also be caused by the compression of nerves coming out from the spinal cord, due to some medical condition or accident. Tearing or damage to the lumbar discs can also cause severe back pain and inflammation, that needs immediate attention. Sometimes, pain in the lower back region can also result due to some degenerative condition like arthritis or osteoarthritis . It can also be caused due to tumors, infections or any other bone deformity. The severity of the back pain depends on the degree of injury sustained by the spine. If the spine is badly bruised or injured in an accident, you must visit a doctor and get a check up done for any serious complications. However, if the pain is mild and is caused by sudden twisting or bending, it can be treated at home. The treatment you opt for the Lower back pain relief depends on the nature and severity of the cause. Following are some of the treatment options available for Lower back pain relief. Home remedies Home remedies like hot or cold treatment are effective in alleviating back pain, by numbing the area or blocking the nerves from delivering the pain signals to the brain. You can also increase the blood flow in the area to reduce any swelling. An ice pack or a hot compress can be used to treat lower back pain. Antibiotic Medication If the home remedies do not work for you, you can consult a doctor and can follow a treatment course. Muscle Relaxants to relax the muscles that surrounds the lower back and to ease the pain. Anti-Inflammatory Drugs to reduce inflammation caused by injuries.

Atrial fibrillation, which is more commonly known as AFib, is a typical heart condition where the heart beats at a much faster rate than usual. More precisely, the heartbeat is often irregular and more than 100 beats or less than 60 beats per minute as compared to the normal heartbeat rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute, when you are in a resting and a relaxed position. Such fast heartbeats can cause serious complications like a stroke or a blood clot in the heart. Thus, it needs to be treated immediately before the situation goes out of the control. Thus, AFib treatment at the right moment is very important. In this article, we’ll discuss some important facts about AFib that can help you to take the right decision before it’s too late. Here are some foods to eat and avoid to reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib): Whole grains Whole grains contain fibers, which are known to improve cholesterol levels in the body. They also help reduce the risk of conditions linked to AFib, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Legumes Legumes such as lentils, beans, chickpeas, and peas contain healthy antioxidants, fiber, and other nutrients. Together, these properties can help lower “bad” cholesterol and reduce the risk of AFib. Olive oil Unlike other unhealthy oils, olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and more that may help alleviate any symptoms related to AFib. Foods to avoid Avoid these foods in order to effectively manage AFib. Alcohol Studies have shown that consuming alcohol can contribute to AFib risk factors like hypertension and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). Therefore, alcohol consumption must be avoided. Salt Salt is known to increase the chances of high blood pressure. In turn, it also puts you at risk of developing symptoms linked to atrial fibrillation.

When it comes to chronic pain conditions, nothing is as debilitating and widespread as fibromyalgia. It is a condition that causes pain throughout the body and increases your sensitivity to pain as well. Besides that, general fatigue, sleep problems, and appetite fluctuations are some of the side-effects of the condition. Despite the fact that around 10 million people in the country suffer from the condition, and though a huge amount of research is available on the subject, the causes of fibromyalgia are still not well understood. As of now, there is ongoing research about the possible factors involved in the onset of fibromyalgia and the risk factors that may increase one’s likelihood of suffering from this condition. Understanding fibromyalgia The condition is pretty simple since it operates on the basic principle of pain detection. Nothing is as sensitive to pain as your brain is, and this is what leads to fibromyalgia. People who have fibromyalgia have more pain receptors that carry pain signals to the brain. On the flip side, cells that reduce the pain receptors from reaching the brain continuously or those that slow down this signaling, are fewer in number. Thus, a single bump feels like stabbing, and things that shouldn’t cause any pain at all lead to a numbing, painful sensation. Either way, the patient’s pain signals are all awry and off the charts most of the time. It is quite difficult to understand the factors that lead to this condition. However, here are some causes that may lead to fibromyalgia: Genetics Seeing as how fibromyalgia runs in families, it isn’t strange to suspect that a patient’s genes play a vital role. Women with a relative suffering from fibromyalgia are more likely to suffer from this condition themselves. Perhaps, there is a gene that causes hypersensitivity to pain.