Things to Know about Swollen Finger Pain

Things to Know about Swollen Finger Pain

Everyone experiences pain and swelling in their fingers at some point in time. There are several reasons for this pain and swelling, such as injuries and medical conditions that are known to cause pain in the fingers. Swollen finger pain is generally accompanied by redness, a burning sensation, tenderness, stiffness, numbness, a tingling feeling, swelling, color change, and such other conditions. Arthritis is one of the major causes of swollen finger pain. It can also be caused due to an infection or inflammation. Causes of swollen finger pain: Swollen finger pain may be caused as a result of injuries due to strenuous physical activity, actively participating in contact sports such as soccer, football, or baseball. Performing recreational activities that require a lot of efforts, such as skiing or playing tennis. Operating heavy machinery at home or work. Carrying heavy loads for a long period of time. Active participation in fist fights or punching. Performance of repetitive movements such as typing, writing, and stitching for a long period of time. As a result of the compartment syndrome, which leads to severe swelling of the fingers; it covers the muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. Patients who are suffering from the compartment syndrome should be attended to immediately and under the supervision of a doctor. Arthritis also causes inflammation accompanied by swelling, pain, redness, and stiffness. Trigger finger happens when you are unable to straighten out your finger as the tendon in your finger has become swollen or inflamed. Dupuytren’s Contracture is a condition where your hand becomes tighter and does not enable free movement as the tissue becomes inflamed. Carpal tunnel syndrome causes swollen finger pain as pressure is exerted on the nerves of the fingers, causing severe pain, swelling, and numbness. The Raynaud phenomenon causes swollen finger pain as the blood flow to the fingers is blocked, and the patient suffers from swelling, numbness, stiffness, and cold fingers.
Understanding the Early Signs of Diabetes

Understanding the Early Signs of Diabetes

If one is looking to identify the early signs of diabetes, it is important to note that diabetes is a metabolic disorder. When the food digested by the body is not properly converted to be used for growth as well as energy, this phenomenon is what triggers diabetes. What are the early signs of diabetes? The early signs of diabetes are generally mild and mostly ignored by most people. A higher than average level of glucose is found in the blood. With type 2 diabetes, there are no significant manifestations until the effects of long-term damage are felt. As far as type 1 diabetes is concerned, there are early manifestations that occur within a couple of days or weeks. The severity is more complicated as well. Early signs that are common to both types of diabetes Hungry or fatigued The glucose needed by the cells come from the food that we eat. The body converts food that we eat into glucose. However, to ensure that the glucose reaches the cells, insulin is required by the body. When the body cannot manufacture enough or any insulin at all, or if the insulin present is resisted by the cells, they don’t get the glucose they need. Thus, leaving one with no energy. This could lead to one to feel more hungry and fatigued. Thirst and frequent urination The frequency of urination for normal people is between 4 and 7 times a day. This frequency goes up much higher in patients who have diabetes. The reason this happens is that there is complete glucose reabsorption by the body when passing through the kidneys in normal cases. The blood sugar levels rise due to diabetes. There is greater urine production by the body, and hence, more fluids are needed by the system. It is a vicious cycle, as one can feel more thirsty and so they drink more water resulting in frequent urination.
A Guide to the Best Plantar Fasciitis Insoles

A Guide to the Best Plantar Fasciitis Insoles

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects several thousand people in the country. This painful condition that affects the heel of the foot can cause great discomfort and impairs the daily functioning of a person. Wearing the right plantar fasciitis insoles can go a long way in alleviating symptoms and living a normal life. What Is Plantar Fasciitis? First, let’s take a look at this common condition and understand its causes, signs, and symptoms. Plantar fasciitis is characterized by pain and inflammation in the band of tissue that connects a person’s heel to the toes. It is caused due to extreme stretching or tearing of this band of tissue that provides support to the arch on a person’s heel. This is where plantar fasciitis insoles can provide relief and help a person walk normally. The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis are intense pain near the heel that usually worsens after waking up in the morning, after long periods of standing on your feet, and when you rise up after sitting for a long time. A person generally does not experience pain during exercise but there may be a pain right after. This condition is generally seen in runners, ballet dancers or individuals who participate in activities that put pressure on the heels. People who are obese, individuals who do not wear shoes with adequate support, those who regularly wear high heels, and people with flat feet are at a higher risk of developing this condition. People whose jobs tend to keep them on their feet are also vulnerable. Plantar fasciitis is more common in women, but men can also develop it. How Is Plantar Fasciitis Treated? This condition is self-diagnosable, but it is best to consult a doctor about the severity of the condition. A physical examination of the affected area and some imaging tests may be required to point out the exact location of the pain and inflammation.
5 Alternative Treatments for Colitis You Can Try

5 Alternative Treatments for Colitis You Can Try

Colitis is the term used to refer to the inflammation of the inner lining of the large intestine. Colitis is caused by many different reasons. Some of the common causes are diarrhea, infection, or Crohn’s disease. If you are suffering from colitis, you might show symptoms like belly cramps, constipation, a serious case of diarrhea, rectal bleeding, loss of appetite, etc. Colitis is one of those diseases where you cannot prolong the treatment. The longer you wait, the more severe the situation might become. So, if you show symptoms of colitis, then it is advisable that you do not take it lightly and see a doctor. A popular trend observed nowadays is the trend of seeking alternative treatments for colitis along with regular treatment. Many people are opting for this complementary approach, as they believe that it helps in further reducing their colitis pain. While these alternative treatments for colitis are said to bring additional benefits to some patients, there are some who feel that these did not help much in their case. So, how to know whether these alternative treatments are for you or not? The smart thing to is to consult your doctor about it. Ask for his or her opinion on zeroing in the best alternative treatments into your routine, while you are undergoing regular treatments for colitis. If you get their green signal, then you can try out the below listed alternative treatments for colitis: Guided therapeutic imagery Stress may not be a direct cause of colitis, but if you suffer from colitis, it is one of your biggest enemies. When in stress, you release a chemical called cortisol. Cortisol heightens your sense of pain and makes colitis pain worse. Guided imagery is a relaxation technique which is believed to be effective in reducing colitis pain.
All You Need to Know about a Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash

All You Need to Know about a Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash

Gum diseases, bad breath, and tooth decay are some of the primary oral healthcare conditions. In most cases, a good dental hygiene can help you fight the situation. But, even if you have a high dental hygiene it does not ensure that you will not have any oral health issues. Hydrogen peroxide mouthwashes are an ideal remedy if you are suffering from oral health diseases or gum issues. It also helps in cleansing your mouth and keeps them away from germ building, strengthens your enamel and keeps plaque away. Here’s how hydrogen peroxide mouthwash works: Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash is a mild antiseptic that helps you get rid of minor irritations in your mouth caused by conditions like gingivitis, dentures and other oral health conditions. It works by releasing oxygen when it is rinsed in the mouth. The oxygen causes foaming that removes the mucus formed and cleanses the area. Let us look at some of the tips to use hydrogen peroxide mouthwash: If you buy hydrogen peroxide mouthwash from the market, make sure you read all the instructions on the product carefully and follow them diligently. Some brands give you a concentrated version of the product, you might have to dilute this product with water before you use it. For the ones that are ready to use, you can rinse your mouth directly. Keep an eye on the amount of dosage mentioned on the packaging. Swish it around your mouth for a minute or 30 seconds and spit it out. Repeat the action twice or thrice in one session to get the best results from the product. In any case, if you are unsure about the usage directions, it is safe to consult a doctor or pharmacist. Swallowing this product can be hazardous, so you must make sure you do not swallow it.
5 Useful Things to Know about Hidradenitis Suppurativa

5 Useful Things to Know about Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a disease where the affected person gets painful bumps under their skin, mostly near the sweat glands. For now, there is no permanent cure for this affliction, but medical treatments and changes in lifestyle have proven to provide relief as well as reduce future flare-ups. Hidradenitis suppurativa occurs in places where the swear glands are located. The sweat glands are known as apocrine glands, which are located in places where an individual usually has hair, like under the arms, around the groin region and between the buttock cheeks. Bumps develop in these areas . This can also occur in areas where the skin frequently gets rubbed, like between the thighs and under the breasts. When these bumps break, they often leave behind tissue scars. Immediate treatment is required to prevent the infection from developing again in the same area. Hidradenitis suppurativa is a condition that lasts for a long time and can get very frustrating to deal with. It also takes an emotional toll. People suffering from this affliction should seek support from family and friends and maybe even join a support group. Skin conditions can have a physical and emotional toll on the patient and should be handled with care. Causes: The causes of hidradenitis suppurativa are not yet known, but it is proven that the skin problems begin when sweat glands become blocked. Most people see the first symptoms in their teens or during the twenties. It also happens to be more common in women as compared to men as well as in people who smoke or are overweight. It can also be hereditary as about one-third of the people who suffer from HS usually have another relative with the same problem. Medical researchers and scientists have not been able to pinpoint the causes for hidradenitis suppurativa, but it has been noted that it is not caused by the use of powders, deodorants or by shaving one’s underarms.
Medical Treatment Options for Shingles

Medical Treatment Options for Shingles

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.
Different Ways to Relieve Sinus Pressure

Different Ways to Relieve Sinus Pressure

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.
The Underlying Causes of Joint Pain

The Underlying Causes of Joint Pain

Joints are essential parts of the skeletal system that knit all the bones inside the body into one single structure. They are of paramount importance as they are responsible for the smooth movement of limbs. Most joints are freely movable, like the knee. Some allow minimal or no movement, such as those in the brain. Also, there is a particular type of fluid present between the bones that are united in the joint region, to prevent friction. An individual suffers from joint pain when these joints get damaged due to various reasons. The severity of the pain depends on the type and level of inflammation. Injury to the joints is a common phenomenon experienced by those who regularly participate in sports and other physical activities. Temporary conditions such as sprains and strains can be easily cured, whereas, conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and bursitis can turn into lifelong ailments. Joint pain can cause a dip in the level of body movement followed by complexities in executing daily chores. Moreover, exertion can exacerbate the illness. Usually, muscular activity is restricted until the joint pain subdues to prevent the condition from getting aggravated. The problem of joint pain stems from a number of reasons such as: Obesity People who are obese face a higher probability of contracting arthritis. Obesity or increased body weight can exert pressure on the joints making them weak over time. Osteoarthritis is a common type of joint inflammation encountered by obese individuals. It becomes essential to fight obesity as it saves the individual from other lethal diseases as well. Old age As an individual grows old, his/her joints and ligaments tend to get fragile. Senior citizens wearing cervical collars is a common sight. Also, with old age, the synovial fluid diminishes. This contracts the cushion between cartilages resulting in increased abrasion between the bones.
Gout – Diagnosis and Foods to Avoid

Gout – Diagnosis and Foods to Avoid

Gout is an acute form of arthritis and is often known as a disease of rich men as it occurs due to overindulgence in alcohol and other such products. Gout results in swelling and pain in the joints. Though gout is known to affect the biggest of the toe in most cases, at times, it does affect the ankle, wrist, elbow, and toe. Gout can be most effectively managed if the uric acid is in control. A typical gout attack can last up to four days and a person suffering from gout should follow the proper dietary advice besides taking the recommended medications so that any instance of gout comes under control. An increasingly common disease According to a health study which was carried among 52,000 people, it was found that around 4.1 percent people of the studied group were suffering from gout-related problems. The average age of gout infestation was found to be 44 years, but it was also seen that people as young as 16 years of age were also suffering from gout-related complications. It was assumed on the basis of this study that gout was a common phenomenon and it has started impacting young people with increasing intensity. This study also found out that men faced an increased risk of being affected by gout in comparison to women. The risk incidence among women increased only when they reached the menopause age. Gout is also known to occur in a combination of a host of diseases affecting the person alongside. These were found out to be high blood pressure, higher range of cholesterol, kidney and heart disease and diabetes. The most prevalent risk of gout occurring is when a high level of uric acid is reported in the blood. This leads to crystals of uric acid settling in the joints.
Benefits of Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

Benefits of Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

A good sleep is the sign of a healthy lifestyle. The more you sleep the higher will be your productivity. An average person takes a sleep of 8 hours, which is enough to make mind fresh and active. It is important that you take at least minimum 6 hours nap to keep your mind healthy. However, some disorders play a role of a barrier in the sleep of people, and sleep apnea is one of the topmost disorders that often occur. In this disorder, the person has many pauses in breathing during the sleep. The number of these pauses can be 30 times in an hour. These breathing interruptions create choking sound and loud snort, which disturb sleep and make its quality poor. The sleep apnea can affect every age group of people even children as well. But, some risk factors for sleep apnea have also seen in most of the cases. Like overweight, over 40 years of age, large neck size, hereditary, and nasal obstruction. These factors increase the risk of this disorder. Moreover, men are most arrested for this disorder as compared to women. The sleep apnea not only disturbs your nap but also irritates other, who sleeps with you. So, yes it is important that you treat your sleep apnea as soon as you can because it’s all about your comfort and health. Don’t take this problem lightly because it is a dangerous disorder that can create some big health issues. Do you know how you can treat your sleep apnea? Well, you can find a number of remedies to treat this disorder. But if you want to get quick relief from this, then the oral appliances is the best option for preventing this disorder. If it is the first time when you have heard about an oral device to cure sleep apnea, then, of course, you have any doubts about its working and outcomes.
Everything You Need to Know About the Best Gout Treatments

Everything You Need to Know About the Best Gout Treatments

A gout is a form of arthritis that that causes inflammation in the joints because of high levels of uric acid in the blood. It usually affects the big toes, fingers, knees, and elbows and is characterized by symptoms of pain, stiffness, redness, and inflammation in the affected joints. If appropriate treatment for gout is not taken, then the attacks can occur consistently. When this condition remains unattended for a long time, it increases the risk of permanent joint and tissue damage. How is gout diagnosed? Your doctor will start by assessing your symptoms by conducting a physical examination. Sometimes, a sample of fluid from the joint is extracted to evaluate the uric acid crystals closely. It is the best method for diagnosing gout. Additionally, the doctor may also ask for a blood test for estimating the uric acid levels in your blood. What kind of medications are used for treating gout? The best treatment for gout is starting a course of medications to lower the uric acid quantity in the blood quickly. When it comes to the gout medications, they can be classified into two categories, i.e., short-term and long-term medications. Short-term medications for treating gout Short-term drugs provide relief from pain and they also lower the inflammation while having an acute attack. These types of medications also play a vital role in preventing the recurrence of a severe attack. One of the best treatment for gout includes the use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Most common choices are naproxen, indomethacin, and ibuprofen. Your doctors might also recommend corticosteroids which are available in the form of pills or shots. During an attack, most doctors recommend a maximum daily dose of one or two medicines as a part of short-term treatment. This is a feasible type of treatment when the gout symptoms are not that severe.