Inflamed joints are a painful condition. Joint pain due to arthritic conditions like gout is one of the leading cause of pain worldwide. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that is characterized by the accumulation of uric acid crystals around the joints. The course of gout is recurrent with attacks of inflammation, followed by pain that starts a few hours later. The pain is often severe and of rapid onset. Gout is caused by various genetic and environmental factors. Gout occurs when there is a high level of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid forms crystals and these uric acid crystals deposit around bone joints, tendons, and supportive tissues. Gout was once called “the rich man’s disease” or “the king’s disease” since it was associated with excessively rich diets. With modern diets and prolonged life spans, gout has become increasingly common. Being overweight, eating too much meat, and drinking too much beer increases your chances of developing gout. Gout diet plans aim to ease the symptoms and reduce the frequency of attacks. Causes of gout The primary cause of gout is uric acid buildup. In most cases, the underlying reason for overaccumulation of uric acid is underexcretion of urate by the kidneys. Though uncommon, sometimes the reason could be an overproduction of uric acid. Genetic and dietary factors play a huge role in the development of gout. Diets with excessive amounts of meat, seafood, alcohol, and sweetened beverages, increase the risk of developing gout. Gout diet plans include consuming vitamin C, dairy products, and coffee along with moderate levels of physical exercise. Symptoms to watch out for The most defining symptom of gout is recurrent attacks of acute arthritis. The joints become red, inflamed, tender, hot to the touch, and even painful. In half of all cases, the joint of the big toe is affected.

An enlarged prostate is one of the complex problems in men. The prostate serves the fertility function in men and is situated between the bladder and the penis. With the condition of an enlarged prostate, men find it difficult to do almost anything. This problem normally affects men above 40 as a natural process of aging, as the hormone secreted by them is reduced in the prostate. Lack of exercise and family history are the other two causes of an enlarged prostate. Below are symptoms of an enlarged prostate: Urine frequency: A person, on an average, urinates about 6–7 times a day. In the condition of an enlarged prostate, the person may tend to urinate more than 8 times a day. This is because the prostate starts to secrete very little female hormones that the male produces, as there is a blockage in the secretion of the male hormone. Urinary blockage: Another major symptom of enlarged prostate is urinary blockage as the prostate gland becomes enlarged, blocking the functions of the bladder. Nerve problem: Due to an enlarged prostate gland, there could be a disruption of nerves between the brain and the bladder, in such a way that the brain fails to read the messages by the bladder, thereby leading to uncontrollable urination. Infection: A sudden infection in that area is another symptom of an enlarged prostate. The infection causes a burning sensation and you can start itching uncontrollably. This shows up as a swelling of the prostate gland and makes it difficult for the person to perform routine tasks. Medications: Other causes can also be certain medicines that do not suit your body type and result in damaging the prostate. There are certain medications that disturb the functions of the urinary system, causing an enlarged prostate. Remedies for enlarged prostate Saw palmetto Saw palmetto is a natural remedy for enlarged prostate.

Diabetic neuropathy is the damage to your nerves that occurs due to diabetes. When your blood sugar level is high, the high glucose in your system can injure and damage the nerve fibers through your body. Diabetic neuropathy is usually experienced in the legs and feet, but other parts of the body like neck, shoulders, and back can be at the receiving end of this condition as well. Diabetic neuropathy is categorized into different types, based on the place that it is affecting. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy This includes the damage to the peripheral nerves, which is most commonly your legs and feet. Diabetic autonomic neuropathy Here, the autonomic nervous system gets affected. This involves the nerves that are responsible for controlling bodily functions like the urinary, genital, gastrointestinal, and vascular system. Diabetic proximal neuropathy The lower body, like the hips and thighs, is affected. Diabetic focal neuropathy A specific area of the body or nerve are is affected. Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy- Here are a few symptoms that might suggest that you are suffering from diabetic neuropathy: The ability to feel anything like pain or temperature decreases. Numbness in the affected area. Tingling or burning sensations that run across the length of your body. Sudden, sharp pains, and cramps. The sensitivity to touch increases drastically, so much so that for some people even placing a cloth or bedsheet on them can be painful. Muscles become weak, thereby affecting your muscular movement. You will experience a loss of reflex. The coordination and balance of your movement get affected. Ulcers, infections, bone pain and joint pain and other deformities especially in your legs and feet. Bowel movements are affected, you might experience constipation, diarrhea or both. Swallowing becomes difficult. Men can experience erectile dysfunction. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and bloating are common.

Are you experiencing neck or back pain? If you experience tingling, burning, numbness, or weakness along this pain, you may have a pinched nerve. A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, apply pressure on a nerve. The most commonly affected areas are the back and neck, but it can affect any nerve. The medical term for a pinched nerve is radiculopathy. A radiculopathy is caused when one or more nerves are compressed, and this causes loss or disruption of nerve function. In radiculopathy, the compression occurs at the nerve root, just as it exits the spinal cord. The compression of the nerve interferes with its ability to transmit signals. A pinched nerve commonly occurs in the back, neck, elbows, and wrists. The symptoms of a pinched nerve depend on the nerve that is compressed. The symptoms can be seen along the distribution of the nerve and can affect the muscles that are supplied by that nerve. With proper pinched nerve treatment, most people can recover within a few weeks. In some people, despite adequate pinched nerve treatment, the condition can develop a chronic condition. Symptoms of pinched nerve- The symptoms of a pinched nerve can be varied since it depends on the distribution and functions of the affected nerve. However, there are a few common symptoms that hint at a pinched nerve. The symptoms are- Numbness Radiating pain that can be shooting, stabbing, prickling, burning, etc. Paresthesias (abnormal sensations such as tingling) Localized muscle weakness Pinched nerve treatment aims to reduce the compression of the nerve. Thereby alleviate the associated symptoms. Commonly affected nerves are- Median nerve at the wrist, which is called carpal tunnel syndrome. Ulnar nerve at the elbow Common peroneal nerve compression at the knee Sciatica (pinched nerve in the lower back) Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve in the neck) Causes of pinched nerves- Pressure on a nerve causes damage to the protective covering of the nerve, called the myelin sheath.

Chronic myeloid leukemia is a rare type of blood-cell cancer that starts in the bone marrow. Generally common among older adults, this type of leukemia is caused due to spontaneous chromosome mutation. Treatments usually include chemotherapy, biological therapy, stem cell transplant, and targeted therapy. Along with these treatments, it is essential to pay close attention to diet as well. Here are a few important dietary recommendations for those with chronic myeloid leukemia. Eat lots of vegetables It is recommended that one should have steamed vegetables to get all the essential nutrients. Stir-fries are also a healthy option; a stir-fried meal of carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, and an assortment of peppers not only tastes good but also has several important vitamins and minerals. Another option is making soups, especially from green leafy vegetables including chard, collard greens, mustard greens, kale, and spinach. Vegetable juice with low-sodium content is also recommended. Increase servings of fresh fruits Those suffering from chronic myeloid leukemia should have five to ten servings of fruits every day. Fresh fruits are one of the richest sources of nutrients that fight cancer cells. Fruits contain all the essential vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. Make sure to add fruits to salads, breakfast cereals, yogurt, smoothies, pancakes, and wherever possible so that the daily dietary requirement is fulfilled. Eat tummy-soothing foods One of the most common treatment options for leukemia is chemotherapy. While this treatment kills cancerous cells, it wreaks havoc on the digestive system with side effects such as nausea and vomiting. At such times, it is advisable to eat foods that cool down the stomach. Avoid spicy foods and caffeine. Instead opt for crackers, camomile tea, popsicles, ginger ale, and other clear liquid-based food. Avoid uncooked food Chronic myeloid leukemia treatments often lead to low levels of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell.

Nasal polyps are benign growths that cover the lining of the nose tissues and sinuses. A polyp is a bulging teardrop-shaped formation that blocks the nasal path, and it usually hangs from the nasal lining. Prolonged irritation of the sinus and inflammation of the lining can trigger the growth of these polyps, but the condition can be easily managed with medications. That said, a mild surgical procedure may be required in some cases to provide long-term relief. Read on for a brief overview of the condition. What causes nasal polyps to form? Inflammation, also referred to as chronic rhinosinusitis, is one of the primary triggers associated with this condition. Inflammation may be deemed chronic if it persists for over 12 weeks. Also, an abnormal response of the immune system and resulting problems in the mucus membrane can trigger the growth of nasal polyps. That said, the direct cause is unknown. What are the noticeable symptoms of nasal polyps? A person may initially experience difficulty breathing and struggle with a reduced sense of smell. Due to the blockage, a sensation of nasal congestion always exists, along with pressure in the forehead or face. Stuffiness can also result in excess mucus running back down the throat, a symptom that is medically referred to as postnasal drip. Congestion forces a person to breathe heavily through the mouth, and the stuffiness can result in the development of sleep apnea. Cough, itching around the eyes, facial pain, and headaches are also common indicators of nasal polyps, especially if a sinus infection accompanies these symptoms. What are the various treatment options for nasal polyps? The condition can be treated with Over-The-Counter (OTC) or prescription medications and surgery in severe cases. Medications Most OTC and prescription medications provide relief from the inflammation and relieve congestion to enable patients to breathe more freely.

Diabetes is recorded to affect millions of people around the world. Unfortunately, the widespread of this condition doesn’t seem to show any signs of slowing, and the only way to deal with it is through effective control. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot effectively transport sugar from the blood to the cells. If left unchecked, it can turn deleterious over the years, leading to the development of several other conditions. It is essential to seek medical help and undergo the right treatment when affected by diabetes. This includes the use of medications like metformin and insulin injections. While medical intervention is usually necessary for diabetes, there are several natural home remedies and measures that can be used to show promise in treating the same. Stay well-hydrated Water plays a key role when keeping blood sugar levels under control. It prevents dehydration and aids in flushing out excess blood sugar from the urine. There are some studies that point at how people who drank more amount of water daily had a reduced risk of developing unhealthy blood sugar levels. Regular consumption of water effectively hydrates the blood and keeps blood sugar levels in check. Keep stress levels in check Stress has a highly negative impact on the levels of blood sugar. In times of excessive stress, hormones such as glucagon and cortisol can cause an immediate spike in the blood sugar levels. Stress can be reduced using several measures such as mindful meditation and daily relaxation. Quality sleep Today, most people lead a lifestyle that has a direct effect on sleep quality. Poor sleeping habits, late sleeping hours, and not getting enough rest can affect blood sugar levels and trigger diabetes. Additionally, improper sleeping habits can increase appetite and bring about unhealthy weight gain. One must get enough quality sleep every night to ensure optimum health.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to have or maintain an erection that is adequate to engage in intercourse. It may give rise to feelings of inadequacy and shame but one need not worry too much as the condition can be treated. Occasional ED is not a cause for concern; if the condition is long-term and persists and one frequently has a problem keeping an erection, then he will need to treat the underlying disease responsible for the condition. Herein, we look at some natural treatment options that can help treat ED. Check testosterone levels Testosterone levels decline sharply after a man hits 50 according to experts. Every year following 40, testosterone levels are said to drop around 1.3% and this could be a cause for concern. One is advised to consult a doctor if he experiences moodiness, low sex drive, trouble making decisions, or inadequate erections as these are all signs of low testosterone levels. The doctor could talk about the situation and prescribe something to help. Kegel exercises Kegel exercises are repeatedly advised for preventing incontinence and solving other sexual problems like premature ejaculation. However, there is limited evidence to show its efficacy in dealing with ED. Kegel exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles in the pelvis repeatedly and it is said to have multiple benefits like allowing men to last longer and preventing incontinence as well. One can definitely try out Kegel exercises but remember that for full efficacy he needs to pursue these exercises daily for a long period of time. Stay away from anabolic steroids Anabolic steroids are used by many sportsmen, athletes, and weightlifters. They are abused to give an added boost to their performance and this has a negative impact on sexual health. These steroids shrink the testicles and sap their ability to produce testosterone.

Is your pet pooch scratching and itching itself? Does it have a poor coat quality and does it suffer from frequent ear infections? What you’re feeding your beloved dog could be adding to its distress if you don’t know what he or she is allergic to. Today, food allergies are a rising common concern among dog owners, with more and more dogs seeming to suffer from them. Here’s all you need to know about dog food allergies: Common triggers Sometimes, allergies are a genetic problem, and when they are triggered, it is because the dog is exposed to the allergen in some or the other way. Some of the common allergens include fish, rabbit, pork, soy, lamb, chicken, egg, wheat, dairy, and beef. Usually, dogs are allergic to more than one of the above. Allergies are caused due to multiple factors, including genetic predisposition, environment, whatever the immune system is exposed to when the dog is a puppy. Dog breeds and allergies There are certain breeds that are more prone to food allergies. However, it also differs from country to country, or even different regions in the same country. According to research, breeds that are more commonly affected are Cocker Spaniel, Dachshund, German Shepherds, and Retrievers. Diagnosing food allergies The only method to diagnose food allergies in dogs accurately is via an elimination challenge and diet. The dog needs to be taken off of all the food it was eating and needs to be put on a diet it has never had before. Once the dog’s health improves, begin reintroducing the old foods which could have caused the allergies earlier. If the dog suffers from a reaction, then you will know that it has a food allergy. Other specific testing methods include testing a discharge sample from the ears or skin testing.

One of the most popular diet plans currently is the keto diet. Although it originated a few years ago, the diet has remained popular, especially among those with a specific health goal, such as gaining muscle or losing weight. It is a low-carb, and high-fat and high-protein diet; and one of the best ways to stick to it is to opt for a keto meal delivery service. Here are some options: Fresh n Lean Fresh n Lean has several diet plans, including a keto diet plan. You have the option of getting all three meals, i.e., breakfast, lunch, dinner, delivered to you for the entire week. When you are ordering your meal for the week, you can also opt for additional snacks. Their keto meal delivery plan is not only recommended by nutritionists, but is also certified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Each meal is priced at $10.38, and if you are a new customer, then you can get $20 off your first order. Home Chef Home Chef caters to not just you but your family’s needs. They deliver boxes with ingredients and recipes that you can easily make at home for a family of two, four or even six. They feature weekly menus and offer a range of meal kits under the carb-conscious section. Once you sign up on their website, you will be asked to choose from the various meal plans they offer, including any ingredient that you want excluded. The costs vary depending on the meal option you choose; however, the average starting price per serving is $6.99. Ketoned Bodies One of the unique selling propositions (USP) of this meal delivery service is that they support regenerative farming, which makes their produce sustainable. They also procure organic vegetables and only use grass-fed beef and pasture-raised pork and chicken for their meal kits.

While our pets are a part of our family, their digestive systems differ from humans. Therefore, feeding them the foods you eat might not always be safe. We understand it can be hard to dodge those puppy eyes and say “No.” So, we browsed the internet to find out which human foods are safe for dogs and listed them here. In the end, you’ll also find some brands for healthy packaged dog food. White rice Steamed rice without any seasonings or spices is safe for your furry friend. In fact, it’s an excellent option when they have an upset stomach as rice is easy to digest. Carrots Carrots are good for your dog’s skin, coat, and immune system. The crunchy vegetable is also great for their dental health because it helps remove plaque and makes the jaw work harder. Milk Milk and dairy products like yogurt and cheese are safe dog foods if had in moderation. However, look for signs as some dogs may be lactose intolerant. Peanut butter Yes, dogs love peanut butter, and it’s also nutritious with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. However, choose unsalted varieties and those that don’t have xylitol (an artificial sweetener). Bananas This easy-to-peel-and-eat fruit is another safe human food for dogs. While bananas are high in fiber and potassium, they must be served only occasionally as they’re also high in sugar. Apart from feeding the above foods that are readily available in the kitchen, you can buy dog food from the following highly trusted brands: Natural Balance This brand is known for its sweet potato formula that’s not only nutritious but also a favorite among dogs for its taste. Natural Balance predominantly uses plant-based ingredients, making it a healthful dog food option. Purina Purina specializes in making treats for large breeds, like the Great Dane.

Dogs love smelling things. They want to put their snout on anything that comes across their path, be it garbage on the sidewalk or blossoming flowers in a park or garden. While some things are downright disgusting, other items can be toxic to your dog’s health. Certain plants can cause diarrhea and other serious issues like liver damage. Hence, it’s important to keep your dog away from the plants mentioned below. Sago palms These popular indoor ornamental palms are found in warmer climates. Every part of this plant is toxic to your dog. If consumed, it can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, tremors, and seizures. Aloe vera Aloe vera is another common household plant grown mainly because of its many beneficial properties. However, its gooey gel contains some components that are toxic for dogs. It can cause lethargy, stomach problems, vomiting, and diarrhea. Elephant’s ear Elephant’s ear is a beautiful plant commonly found in warm climates. This plant can be harmful to dogs as it contains glass-like insoluble oxalate crystals, which can result in severe irritation, swelling in the mouth, vomiting, and diarrhea. Azaleas All parts of the azalea plant, including the flower, leaves, seeds, and honey made from its nectar, are toxic to dogs. Signs of ingestion include hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, eye problems, slow heart rate (bradycardia), heart arrhythmia, low blood pressure, cardiovascular collapse. In some cases, it can even cause death. Ivy Some of the most common types of ivy are the English ivy and Devil’s ivy, also known as Golden Pothos. All of them are toxic to your furry pet. If consumed, it can lead to mouth and stomach irritation, foaming, excessive drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. Snake plant Snake plants are one of the most common household plants in the world since they require little maintenance.