A Month By Month Guide To Seasonal Allergies

A Month By Month Guide To Seasonal Allergies

People sometimes suffer from allergies for some part in the year. The most common among seasonal allergies are: Spring allergies Fall allergies Winter allergies But there are cases where you end up suffering from allergies all through the year. This seasonal allergy chart can help you prepare for any kind of allergic reaction. Let’s take a look at the range of seasonal allergies which affect people, and the part of the year when you’re most vulnerable. January: Pollen allergies may not be an issue during the cold months of winter. But indoor heating makes your house a dust-allergen hot spot. Some basic preventive measures against house dust allergies are: Maintain home humidity below 55% Vacuum your home often Cover pillows and mattresses with dust mite-proof covers February: Dust could act as a year-round allergen for a large number of people. But if dust allergies are not a trouble for you, trees may still cause your allergies to peak. In some parts of the world, tree pollen appears as early as February. Trees that account for the most allergies are: Catalpa Elm Hickory Olive Symptoms of tree allergies are the same as those caused by spring allergies. These include: Watery eyes Congestion Colds and flu March: Tree pollen stays the most common allergens in March as well. The month could cause spring allergies if grass grows early. Further, the pollen count in the air is also high in March. After this, is when the seasonal allergy chart gets into the real problem areas. April: April represents the onset of spring season. The flowers are in full bloom with pollen count at an all-time high. The flowers and the pollen, unfortunately, increase incidents of spring allergy. In some places, grass pollen acts as a powerful allergen in April. As grass pollen combines with flower pollen, spring allergies peak around April.
Here are Some Lower Back Pain Relief And Treatment Options

Here are Some Lower Back Pain Relief And Treatment Options

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.
Foods, herbs, and remedies for managing lung cancer

Foods, herbs, and remedies for managing lung cancer

Lung cancer develops in the cells that line the air passages. The two common types of the condition include small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Another form of lung cancer is carcinoid tumors. Known as neuroendocrine tumors, they are rare and grow slowly. No permanent cure for lung cancer exists yet. But certain foods, herbs, and treatment options can help one cope with the condition. Foods There are several foods that can help improve the symptoms of lung cancer. Blueberries They contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that eliminates cancer cells in the body. Quercetin also helps in slowing down the growth of lung cancer. Salmon Rich in vitamin D, salmon is an excellent food choice for people with lung cancer. Vitamin D prevents the growth of cancer cells in the lungs. Other healthy sources of fatty fish include mackerel and herring. Herbs These herbs can be used to manage the symptoms of lung cancer. Rosemary This herb is known for its benefits in reducing cancerous cells. Rosemary has two polyphenols, carnosic acid, and rosmarinic acid. These polyphenols are known for inhibiting proliferation of cancer cells, and in helping the body fight these abnormal cells. Basil Basil is a traditional herb that has been used in cooking and treatments for centuries. The herb has antioxidant ingredients like beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-cryptoxanthin, which can help fight the harmful effects of cancer cells. Treatment options In addition to these foods and herbs, these treatment options can be prescribed for the management of lung cancer. TECENTRIQ® (atezolizumab) It helps manage the symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). TECENTRIQ® can also help in preventing a relapse after the tumor has been removed via surgery and the person has received platinum-based chemotherapy. It is also given to patients with Stage 2 to Stage 3A NSCLC.
Watch Out for These Osteoporosis Symptoms

Watch Out for These Osteoporosis Symptoms

Osteoporosis makes your bones fragile and brittle by reducing the quality of your bones. Read on to know more about the different osteoporosis symptoms. Osteoporosis is a disorder that causes your bones to become so weak and brittle that sometimes, even activities like bending over or coughing can cause a fracture. Some of the most common fractures associated with osteoporosis happen in your hip, wrist, and spine. About 200 million women all over the world suffer from this debilitating disorder, and it is more common in white and Asian women. As the bones are living tissue, the old bones in your body are constantly being broken down to create new bones and this rebuilding process is termed as ‘remodeling’. However, when the remodeling pace does not keep up with the pace of the breaking down of the bones, the bones become weak, brittle, and fragile, leading to osteoporosis. It is clear how this disorder develops over a period of time, however, what is not clear is what exactly causes osteoporosis. There are, however, certain risk factors that are associated with the development of this disorder. These are your race, body frame size, age, family history, sex, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and eating disorders. Osteoporosis is typically diagnosed by a bone density test, which involves the use of X-rays to scan the body. The treatment methods that are generally used for osteoporosis mainly depend upon your risk of a fracture. If your risk is low, the treatment plan will mainly involve lifestyle changes and modifications that can reduce the risk factors related to osteoporosis. If you are at a higher risk of breaking a bone, the doctor will prescribe you medications like Actonel, Binosto, Boniva, and Fosamax. Osteoporosis is mainly regarded as a silent disease because there are no telltale signs and symptoms in its early stages.
Colon cancer and its treatment methods

Colon cancer and its treatment methods

The colon is the longest part of the large intestine. It is responsible for absorbing nutrients and storing solid waste before transporting it to the rectum. The formation of tumors in the colon is known as cancer. The tumors lead to symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, and irritable bowel syndrome. There are multiple methods to manage colon cancer. However, these treatments depend on the stage and location of the growth. Diagnoses at home Identifying colon cancer in the early stages can help ensure a more effective treatment plan. Colorguard is one such tool used to diagnose colorectal cancer at home. The kit is available with a doctor’s prescription. It can be used to screen for cancer in adults 45 years of age and older by detecting specific DNA markers and blood in the stool. FDA-approved treatments There are several FDA- approved treatments prescribed by doctors to manage colon cancer. A few of them are include: Avastin (Bevacizumab) The injection is approved to treat metastatic colorectal cancer in case the colon cancer has not spread to other parts of the body. The treatment is combined with intravenous fluorouracil-based chemotherapy. Xeloda (Capecitabine) The FDA-approved treatment is prescribed when colon cancer may have spread to the lymph nodes close to the colon after surgery. It is also prescribed if cancer has spread from the colon to other body parts. Foods to manage colon cancer Foods may not eliminate cancer. But having proper nutrition may prevent additional tumor growth. A few healthy foods are: Fruits Apples, bananas, blueberries, and oranges are beneficial for colon cancer. These fruits contain antioxidants, fibers, and phytochemicals known to protect the patient from digestive complications. Nuts Nuts like cashews, almonds, pistachios, and hazelnuts are rich in fiber, flavonoids, and healthy fatty acids. These properties may reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.
These Common Medical Conditions are Causing Your Osteoporosis Bone Loss

These Common Medical Conditions are Causing Your Osteoporosis Bone Loss

There are certain common medical conditions that are specifically linked with osteoporosis bone loss. Here’s what you need to watch out for. The bone is a living tissue, and as such it is constantly being broken down to create new bone. However, when the rebuilding process is slower than the breaking down process, the bones become fragile and brittle. This is what happens when you develop osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is more common in women than men, and affects about 200 million women all over the world. Even though this disorder affects women of all age and races, it is more common in older white and Asian women. When you are suffering from osteoporosis and it reaches an advanced stage, fractures become a part of daily life. The fractures that are associated with osteoporosis usually occur in your spine, hip, and wrist. The bones become so brittle that even everyday activities like bending over or stepping on to the pavement can result in fractures. Early stages of osteoporosis do not show any symptoms, but when it reaches an advanced stage, symptoms like loss of height, back pain, neck pain, fractures, and stooping posture can be seen. A simple bone density test that shows the extent of osteoporosis bone loss is used when you want to diagnose this disorder. Some of the risk factors of osteoporosis include body frame size, age, family history, race, sedentary lifestyle, sex, and eating disorders. Your treatment plan will include a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes, and mainly depends upon your risk of breaking any bone. But what exactly causes osteoporosis bone loss? There is no definite answer to this question. However, there are some common medical conditions that are linked with osteoporosis bone loss either because of the medications used to treat them or because of the disease itself.
5 Techniques For Effective Shingles Pain Management

5 Techniques For Effective Shingles Pain Management

Affecting nearly one in three Americans, shingles, also known as herpes zoster, are painful rashes that appear in the form of a band on the skin or in a small area on the skin. The rashes appear on one side of the face or the body of the affected person. What are the causes of shingles pain? Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). This virus also causes chickenpox. In some cases, this virus lies dormant in after a person recovers from chicken pox during childhood. The virus becomes active again in adulthood due to a weak immune system, reactions to certain medications, and factors related to age. The virus may again become active decades after the person was afflicted by chicken pox. Rashes are accompanied by a discomfort known as shingles pain. The pain may go away as the person recovers from the rashes. However, in certain cases, there might be some damage caused to the nerves. This is because the virus travels through the nerve roots of the body. If the pain lasts for three months after the rashes disappear, the person might be suffering from post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). The pain occurs in the chest and forehead areas. Generally, PHN affects people who contract shingles after the age of 50 years. In the case of persistent PHN, it is necessary to consult a doctor immediately and get some immediate medical attention. What are the symptoms of shingles? Symptoms of shingles appear in stages. In the early stage, the person experiences flu-like symptoms that include diarrhea, chills, or stomach ache. These symptoms are not accompanied by any kind of fever. There might be swelling or tenderness around the lymph nodes. There will be a sensation of numbness, tickling, tingling, burning, or pain in the areas where the virus affects the nerves.
Common Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis You Cannot Miss

Common Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis You Cannot Miss

Multiple sclerosis is when the brain, primarily the spinal cord, is affected; however, it can affect any part of the body. This condition can cause a varied range of symptoms. The symptoms of multiple sclerosis may differ from person to person. The symptoms may come and go for some people while for some people the symptoms remain steady. When the symptoms get worse, the disease is said to relapse. Some of the multiple sclerosis symptoms include weakness, tingling, numbness, and blurred vision. Some other signs such as muscle stiffness, thinking problems, and urinary problems may also occur. The treatment given can provide relief to the patient from the suffering due to the various symptoms. Multiple sclerosis symptoms of keep reoccurring for many people which make it difficult to diagnose this disease. The early multiple sclerosis symptoms may occur from the age of 20 and above. For some people, these multiple sclerosis symptoms may or may not reoccur; however, there will be an improvement in the condition of the patient with passing time. One way to have a control of this disease is to keep track of the symptoms and having a diagnosis done when the symptoms continue for a period of time. It is always possible to overcome multiple sclerosis symptoms experienced and lead a normal life if the treatment is taken for this disease. Here are some of the common multiple sclerosis symptoms: – Problems in the vision such as blurred or double vision. – Problems in thinking and taking decisions. – Problems in organizing or coordinating things. – Tingling sensation in various parts of the body. – Balance-related issues. – Numbness and weakness in arms or legs. – Itching in various parts of the body. – Stabbing pain or tearing pain in various parts of the body. – Bladder problems are one of the multiple sclerosis symptoms.
Top Prenatal Vitamins and Their Benefits

Top Prenatal Vitamins and Their Benefits

Pregnancy is one of the most memorable phases in the life of any woman. The care and pampering that a woman receives during this phase are quite memorable. You might also be experiencing the same if you are going through this wonderful phase of your life. Though there are others to take care of you in the house, you should also be cautious during this stage. Whether you are expecting the first baby or you are nurturing the second child in your womb, it is essential for you to take proper care of yourself. Nourishment of the unborn and mother is important during this phase. When it comes to proper nourishment of the child, you cannot ignore the importance of the top prenatal vitamins. To ensure complete nutrition of the mother and baby, you can always search for the top prenatal vitamins recommended by doctors or health experts. Though doctors and midwives often guide about the benefits of these vitamins, you can also check them by yourself as well. Calcium When speaking about the importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancy, you cannot ignore the importance of calcium. Calcium is not only essential for proper maintenance of mother’s muscles or bones but also required for healthy development of the child. Taking adequate amount of calcium every day ensures that you do not get weak at any stage of your pregnancy. It also helps in the complete development of the baby’s teeth and bones as well as muscle functions. Calcium is also important for balanced regulation of mother’s as well as child’s nerves and heart. It is always better to get calcium from your daily diet. However, if you cannot get the required amount of calcium from your regular meals, you can get food supplements or calcium tablets prescribed by doctors. Folic acid While calcium is the first thing that comes to your mind when talking about top prenatal vitamins, you cannot undermine the importance of folic acid.
Male Breast Cancer – Symptoms, Causes And Treatments

Male Breast Cancer – Symptoms, Causes And Treatments

Over the past three decades, the chances of occurrence of male breast cancer have increased significantly. There are studies which show that the male breast cancer can occur in men between the ages of 5 to 93. If it diagnosed in the early stages, the chances of survival are 100%. The survival rate is 72-9% for the mid-stage male breast cancer. However, if male breast cancer isn’t diagnosed the chances of survival at the advanced cancer stages are reduced to 20%. It is advised to understand the causes, symptoms and diagnosis and proper treatment for the male breast cancer. Symptoms of Male breast cancer: If you find some changes in the breast you must not ignore them and consult your doctor. Some of the symptoms of breast cancer are nipple pain, inversion of nipples known as nipple retraction, feeling of a lump in the breast, blood or fluid discharge from the nipples, skin dimpling, sores in the nipples, redness of breast skin, enlarged lymph nodes, and formation of a coloured ring at the centre of the nipple. The lump could be painless initially, however, the consequences can worsen. The lymph nodes spread to the underarm, collarbone and can result in the formation of breast tissue. If you notice the above symptoms you must contact the doctors quickly. The above symptoms of male breast cancer can worsen over time. Cancer may spread to different parts of the body such as liver and lungs. You may feel shortness of breath, pain in bones and joints. Jaundice along with itching skin is also common among with men affected by male breast cancer. People with cancer exhaust quickly and feel tired all throughout the day. Causes of Male breast cancer: The cancerous cells arise due to a number of risk factors. Some of them are:
Know about the Factors That Determine the Dental Implants Cost

Know about the Factors That Determine the Dental Implants Cost

Dental implants are the best option available to restore the look, feel, fit and function of your natural tooth. Although there are other options like dentures and bridges, they often interfere with speaking, eating and smiling. All these complexities can be avoided with implants. They would also last longer. Dentures may last for 8 to 10 years, and you need to replace them after this time frame. The cost adds up to such a situation. On the other hand; implants last a lifetime, and you just need some periodic adjustments to enhance the longevity of this dental procedure. In other words, an average cost of dental implants is much less compared to other types of procedures when you consider the long-term benefits. Cost for the X-Ray may add to the cost temporarily but saves money in the future. When it comes to implants, the initial consultation is vital. Most of the planning for the entire treatment is done during this stage. Your teeth and jawbone health is analyzed during the consultation stage and if forms an essential aspect of the treatment. You might have heard a few people saying that their implants have failed to live up to the expectations. If you everything is not done properly during the planning phase, you may not get the expected results. Experienced dental surgeons give utmost importance to the initial consultation to eliminate any future complication. Some people may want to combine the initial phase with the first stage of the treatment to save money. In such a situation, you need to remember that diagnostic imaging such as panoramic X-ray is essential, and it should never be avoided in the name of added cost. X-rays are critical for this procedure, and you should not choose a dentist who is willing to do an implant without an X-ray.
All You Need to Know about Atrial Fibrillation

All You Need to Know about Atrial Fibrillation

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.