The key to finding the right kind of foods for people suffering from ulcerative colitis is to look for foods that contain all the essential nutrients but would not aggravate the digestive tract. Given below a list of food items that are good to eat when you have ulcerative colitis or colitis flare-up: Soothe symptoms with salmon Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids in high amount. It is excellent for your colon and heart health. According to a study, essential fatty acids ease inflammation. It means that salmon helps to counterbalance the inflammation caused by a colitis flare. Other food items containing a rich source of omega-3 include flaxseed oil, albacore tuna, ground flaxseed, and walnuts, which should be added to diets for colitis. Add yogurt to your meals Yogurt or any other fermented foods like miso, kefir, sauerkraut, etc. contain probiotics. Probiotics are good bacteria present in our guts and fermented foods. These bacteria are important to maintain a healthy immune system and digestion. If you eat foods that are filled with active and live cultures, they would keep optimal levels of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. Always buy yogurt that lists active and live culture on their contents’ list. However, you need to watch their sugar content. Go for only unsweetened and plain yogurt. You can add fruits or honey by yourself for some sweetness. Add squash to your diet for colitis Any variety of squash, be it spaghetti, zucchini, butternut or acorn, is a healthy choice. Squash contains antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene. They are high in fiber as well. While antioxidants aid in repairing damage caused by inflammation, fiber keeps the gut flora healthy. However, if you feel that fiber worsens your symptoms during a flare-up then you may want to avoid eating raw squash.

Experiencing recurrent migraine episodes can be frustrating as they end up affecting your daily activities. While medication is an integral part of the migraine treatment process, some home remedies can help relieve your headaches and other symptoms. These could also help prevent any future attacks. Let’s take a look at them: Take rest The most underrated yet effective migraine treatment is rest. Just being away from the bright lights and loud noises and lying down in a dark, quiet room can calm your senses. Lying down in a room or taking a nap can help during a migraine attack, but you should also seriously consider working on developing a decent sleep pattern. Making a deliberate attempt to sleep and wake up on time can be instrumental in dodging severe episodes in the future. A study concluded that people with poor sleep schedules are likely to have more headaches than people with healthy sleeping routines. So you should aim to get at least 7 to 8 hours of undisturbed sleep. Use lavender oil Commonly used for relief from stress and relaxation, some evidence suggests that lavender oil can a great form of migraine treatment. Inhaling it could be an effective and safe way of alleviating the pain. The use of lavender oil in one study showed that participants noted a difference in the frequency and intensity of the attacks in a 3-month period. If you wish, you can also apply diluted lavender oil directly to your temples. Practice yoga Simple yoga exercises involving breathing and meditation techniques can enhance blood flow and ease any tension in the muscles. Research has found that people with migraine who participated in a yoga program along with traditional treatment gained better respite from their headaches. In the long run, regular yoga exercises may help alleviate the frequency, severity, and duration of migraine attacks.

Treatment plans and medications for depression According to the World Health Organization, the estimated number of people around the world affected by depression are around 350 million. It is the most common illness worldwide and is a leading cause of disability. WHO states that it is a common mental disorder that is characterized by persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities that a person usually enjoys, accompanied by an inability to carry out daily activities for at least two full weeks. What causes depression? While the cause of depression is not fully understood, it is likely to be a complex combination of genetic, environmental, and biological and psychosocial factors. Also, while depression can affect people of all ages from all walks of life, poverty, unemployment, life events like the death of a loved one or a relationship break-up, physical illness, and problems caused by alcohol and drug use are likely to increase the risk. The symptoms involve losing interest in doing things that one would usually enjoy, change in appetite and sleep patterns, and feeling sad for at least 2 weeks. Approaches to treat depression If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks, patients are advised to get professional help from a therapist who can evaluate the symptoms and recommend the right approach for treatment. It is a condition that can be treated by therapy, medication, or both, and the treatment approaches vary depending on the type of depression. Here are some psychotherapy approaches to know about: Interpersonal therapy (IPT) This approach focuses on the past and present social roles and interpersonal interactions of the patient and attempts to help them find better ways to deal with their current problems. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) It focuses on helping patients understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behavior.

6 prescription medicines used for treating migraines A migraine is a form of severely painful, recurring headaches that are typically accompanied by a range of sensory symptoms such as temporary vision loss, pins and needles in the arms or legs, difficulty speaking, hearing noises, seeing bright lights, and uncontrollable jerking or other movements. Depending on the severity, this condition can last for hours or even days. According to the American Migraine Foundation, over 36 million people are suffering from this condition. In addition, women are 3 times more likely to get migraines than men. While its exact cause still remains unknown, episodes can be triggered by hormonal fluctuations, emotional distress, fatigue, alcohol, caffeine, dehydration, certain types of medications, and environmental factors. Treatment The following medications are commonly used to treat migraine symptoms. Some of these help mitigate the existing headache, while some prevent the onset of a migraine, reducing the frequency of attacks. Ergomar® Ergomar® belongs to a group of compounds known as ergot alkaloids. These are specially designed for migraine-type headaches, so they shouldn’t be taken to treat common tension headaches or other headaches different from migraine. This medication alleviates migraine headaches by narrowing the widened blood vessels in the head. Ergomar® works best on headaches that have already begun. It won’t be able to prevent migraine headaches or lower the frequency of attacks. ONZETRA® Xsail® ONZETRA® is a sumatriptan nasal powder that is dispensed via the Breath Powered® Xsail device. Sumatriptan comes from a class of medicines known as triptans. It affects serotonin levels that narrow blood vessels in the brain and also relieves pain by targeting certain types of nerves. This prescription medication is used for treating episodes of acute migraine with or without the symptoms of aura in adults. It doesn’t intend to prevent migraine attacks or to treat other forms of headaches including cluster headaches.

Almost a third of the population over the age of 60 in the country have experienced symptoms of constipation, which increases with age. An outcome of a poor lifestyle and diet, constipation is difficulty in passing stools or reduction in one’s bowel movement. This article lists foods that not only relieve constipation but are also better for bowel movements. Water: Water is probably the solution to half the health problems in the world. Since dehydration is one of the commonest causes of constipation, and drinking plenty of water can often help in easing or resolving the symptoms. Due to dehydration, the intestines are unable to add enough water to stools — this results in lumpy, dry, and hard stools, leading to constipation. Pulses: Most pulses such as peas, chickpeas, lentils, beans, and more are extremely rich in fiber, which is a nutrient that promotes good digestion and reduces constipation. According to a study conducted in 2017, 100 grams of cooked pulses pack in close to 26% of the daily recommended fiber intake. It also contains substantial quantities of other nutrients that help in easing constipation, such as vitamin B6, zinc, folate, and potassium. Broccoli: Broccoli is an extremely healthy vegetable and contains sulforaphane, which is a substance that could end up protecting the gut and easing digestion too. Sulforaphane could also help in preventing the overgrowth of some intestinal microorganisms, which could interfere with healthy digestion. Broccoli is also said to improve bowel movements. Yogurt and kefir: Probiotics are extremely effective in improving gut health. Many dairy products, including kefir and yogurt, contain microorganisms called probiotics, helping improve gut health and in softening stools. According to a 2014 study, 180 ml of unflavored probiotic yogurt every morning for two weeks improved bowel movements in those with chronic constipation. Fruits: Specific fruits such as pears, apples, grapes, kiwis, raspberries, and blackberries are helpful in solving the problem of constipation.

Joint pain can throw your life out of gear. People affected by joint pain find it difficult to carry out their daily chores. Their mobility is restricted, and each movement seems painful. Arthritis refers to a group of conditions that affect the joints due to inflammation. Its most common symptom is joint pain. Several varieties of arthritis exist such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, and bursitis. The causes of these conditions vary with the type. Wear and tear of joints, immune system disorders, and other medical conditions are common causes of pain in the joints due to arthritis. Treatment for joint pain varies depending upon the symptoms and their severity. One can opt for medication or home remedies to treat joint pain. Some people also take supplements and vitamins to ease joint pain. If one wants to get the best supplements for joint pain, they need to consider a variety of factors. Before taking supplements, consultation with a physician is essential. These supplements are capable of providing a moderate improvement in the symptoms of arthritis and inhibit its progression. Some supplements also have an anti-inflammatory effect on the joints, which will reduce any pain. How to choose the best supplements for joint pain? When it comes to joint pain supplements, one size doesn’t fit everyone. The best supplements for joint pain work for you only if they are chosen based on your health needs. Here are some tips to help you choose the best joint pain supplements as per your requirements: Scientific evidence: Look for clinical evidence that supports the supplement’s effectiveness in reducing joint pain. Do not go by the product’s reviews on the company’s website. Expected results: Each supplement produces different effects on different people. You need to be clear about what you expect from the supplement, and then consider factors like side effects, long-term usage effects, and value for money before making a choice.

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), also sometimes called chronic myelogenous leukemia, is a type of leukemia that develops in the white blood cells (WBCs). The WBCs provide immunity to the body, helping fight illnesses and diseases. CML disrupts the formation and functioning of these cells, leading to the formation of immature WBCs, which grow uncontrollably and affect the number of other blood cells. According to estimates by the American Cancer Society, 9,110 people will be diagnosed with CML in 2021, with about 1,220 people losing their lives to it. So it is a serious condition that requires attention as soon as symptoms, such as bone pain, weakness, and night sweats, set in. Diagnosis of CML Early diagnosis of CML is crucial for reducing the risk of death. Here’s how the doctor diagnoses the condition. Physical evaluation The doctor will first examine what kind of symptoms one has and whether they are consistent with those of CML. He/she may check their vitals and also test whether the spleen and abdomen have enlarged. Blood tests Since CML causes a spike in the number of WBCs, a simple blood test can reveal whether or not one has CML. Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy Different parts of the bone marrow are evaluated in these tests. They’re fairly simple and can be done in the doctor’s office as well. Treatment of CML Once CML has been positively diagnosed, the doctor may choose any of the following treatment methods. Chemotherapy This is the most common way to treat cancerous cells. Specific medications used in this method travel through the bloodstream and kill the cells that cause CML. Bone marrow transplant In this procedure, cancerous cells causing CML are first killed using chemotherapy. Then, healthy cells from a donor are infused into the body, which grows with time and replaces the old cells.

Eyesight often worsens with age, leading to various vision problems. Presbyopia, also known as age-related farsightedness, is an eye condition where patients find it extremely difficult to focus on nearby objects. With age, the lenses become less flexible and fail to contract and relax efficiently. However, the good news is that one can manage presbyopia effectively. Here are the symptoms, home remedies, and nutritious foods that help cope with the condition. Symptoms of presbyopia Individuals with presbyopia find it challenging to read fine prints and are often found squinting. They tend to hold reading material at arm’s length to focus. They also find it hard to see in the dark. These things put a lot of strain on the eyes, leading to headaches. Home remedies for presbyopia Besides opting for corrective eyeglasses and other treatment options, one can try the following home remedies: Eye exercises Simple eye exercises like focusing on an object for a long time, switching from big to small fonts, and switching from blurred to sharper text help improve the lens’ focus. Patients must consult an eye specialist for advice regarding the right exercises based on their condition. Warm compress When the eyes feel overworked or strained, it could be challenging to move them. Even resting the eyes could be hard. Dipping a washcloth in warm water and dabbing it on the eyes can help retain moisture and relax the tissues and muscles around the eyes. Foods to manage presbyopia Patients must eat foods high in vitamins A, C, E, omega-3, and zinc. These are essential nutrients to keep eye tissues healthy and working at their optimal best. Carrots, avocados, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, flax seeds, and leafy greens are suitable options. Besides using home remedies and eating the right foods, patients can keep presbyopia eye drops handy.

The disease meningitis is an ailment where the membrane around the brain and the spinal cord swell due to parasites, fungi or some kind of injury. Meningitis due to viral infections happens to be the most common of all. Bacterial meningitis is an ailment that happens to be more common in young children. Some of the common symptoms of meningitis are fever and headache along with skin rashes. There are different types of meningitis out of which some can be life-threatening as well. The answer to the question “is Meningitis Contagious?” is just that as different agents cause different types of meningitis, all of them are not contagious. Different types of meningitis- We now will look at the different types of meningitis cases and will also evaluate on their ratio of being contagious, and then answer the question- is meningitis contagious? Fungal Meningitis As the name suggests, this is a form of meningitis that occurs due to the presence of a fungus called Cryptococcus. This is one of the most uncommon types of meningitis that can strike people with very weak immune systems. This type is not contagious. Parasitic Meningitis This is a type of meningitis that can be highly dangerous and even fatal. It is caused due to microscopic amoeba–the Naegleria Fowleri. This is a parasite that enters the body through the nose. It is found in contaminated lakes and rivers. This type of meningitis is not contagious in its nature. Non-Infectious Meningitis This is a form of meningitis that could happen due to injuries and brain surgeries. This type of meningitis can yet again happen due to certain types of medication or due to cancer and lupus. As the name suggests, this is a type of meningitis that is not contagious. Viral Meningitis It is the most common form of meningitis that is caused by enteroviruses and is contagious in nature.

It is crucial to keep the lungs healthy in order to prevent the onset and escalation of serious conditions. There is a possibility that harmful toxins in the environment and consumption of inflammatory foods can lead to ailments such as chronic MAC infection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis. Altering lifestyles and eating a nutrient-rich food regime can boost lung health. Here are five foods that can improve the function of the lungs. Beetroots and beet greens Beetroots are beneficial for the lungs, as they contain nitrates that relax blood vessels, decrease blood pressure, and improve oxygen levels in the body. On the other hand, beet greens are rich in magnesium and potassium, both minerals that boost lung health and help manage chronic MAC disease. Apples Apples, filled with beneficial flavonoids and a phytonutrient called quercetin, have always been known to keep doctors at bay. This fruit also contains phytochemicals that help keep your lungs healthy and your throat passageways clear. Apples contain all the good antioxidants that prevent chronic ailments. Ginger This immunity booster is an age-old remedy that helps keep the respiratory system healthy. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory spice and relaxes muscles of the lung tissue. A cup of ginger tea after your last meal aids digestion too. Bananas Bananas strengthen the heart and prevent oxidative damage of cells caused by free radicals. It is loaded with potassium and fibers that help promote lung function. Bananas are one of the fruits that people of all ages can consume. Tomatoes Lycopene is a carotenoid antioxidant that improves lung health, and tomatoes are full of them. They help in reducing inflammation of the airways in patients with asthma. Tomatoes boost immunity, too, as they are rich in potassium and vitamin C. In patients with severe lung conditions, doctors may recommend a change in lifestyle and antibiotics like Esbriet.

Sweating is a way of keeping the body cool. The amount of sweat produced varies in every person. Some people suffer from the problem of excessive sweating that is medically associated with hyperhidrosis, normally observed around the areas of hands, armpits, feet, and groin. The problem can be inborn or an individual may develop it during the later stages of his life. If the sweating is without any known cause, then it is defined as primary hyperhidrosis, but if the body sweats more due to an underlying medical condition, it is called secondary hyperhidrosis. The causes of primary hyperhidrosis can be partial hereditary. Today, there are thousands of curative methods available that can be helpful to cure the problem. Mentioned below are the causes of excessive sweating, have a look at these: Diabetic hypoglycemia Endocarditis Fever for an unknown cause Generalized anxiety disorder Heart attack Heat exhaustion Hyperthyroidism Leukemia Malaria Menopause Obesity Stress Tuberculosis Gout Respiratory failure Hodgkin’s disease HIV Pregnancy Some medications Above affirmations are the causes of excessive sweating that can be prevented by various way outs. If hyperhidrosis doesn’t get treated in time it may lead to the following complications: Nail infections: The excessive sweating can result in toenail infections that can further cause several disorders. Warts: This is a severe skin infection whose cause is virus HPV that generally attacks the body in sweaty conditions. Bacterial infections: Excessive sweat results in a number of bacterial infections. The main targeted areas are hair follicles and the space present between adjoining fingers of feet and hands. Heat rashes : This complication results in itching to the body. A large red rash on the skin is observed that causes the stinging sensation. This happens due to blockage of sweat ducts and the deposition of sweat trapped beneath the skin.

Bronchial tubes carry air from and to the lungs, and when there is an inflammation in these tubes, it is known as bronchitis. People who have this problem will usually have a severe cough. This cough will lead to discolored and thick mucus. Most people who have this kind of problem may also have chest pain, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Bronchitis is two types – acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis: This kind of bronchitis will develop as a result of some respiratory infections or due to cold. You will start feeling better in just a few days, and it will not last for a very long time. Chronic bronchitis: This kind of bronchitis will not strike suddenly like acute bronchitis. It will develop slowly, and may last for months or even for several years. The lining of your bronchial tube will have constant inflammation because of which thick mucus will get stuck in the airways of the lungs. Due to this, the air that flows in and out of the lungs will get restricted. People may face breathing difficulties due to blocked airways. Over time, the mucus formation will worsen. People with chronic bronchitis are likely to face other kinds of lung diseases as well. So, it is always good to start treatment for chronic bronchitis as soon as possible. Treatment for chronic bronchitis There is no cure or treatment for chronic bronchitis, but if you are taking medicine on time and make some lifestyle changes, you will be able to manage the symptoms of this health issue. But for this to work, you need to get an early diagnosis. When the condition gets worse, such changes are less likely to work on you. Medication As a part of the treatment for chronic bronchitis, your doctor may prescribe medication that will ease the breathing process.