Choosing the Right Treatment for Spinal Stenosis

Choosing the Right Treatment for Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is an extremely painful condition that causes the narrowing of the spaces within the spine. This puts pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine and may lead to several complications. Spinal stenosis commonly occurs in the neck and the lower back. One of the major drawbacks of this condition is the fact that its onset may come with symptoms to indicate the presence of the condition. If you do experience the symptoms of spinal stenosis though, expect to face severe pain, numbness, muscle weakness, and tingling in the affected areas. The symptoms generally worsen with the progression of the condition, so consult a doctor immediately. The onset of spinal stenosis is generally due to wear and tear in the spine related to osteoarthritis. To make things easier for you, here are a few of the best spinal stenosis treatment methods for you to choose from. Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options Treatment for spinal stenosis is dependent on the severity of the signs and symptoms of the disease as well as its location. You must consult a doctor to determine the treatment method that suits you best. If your condition is mild, home remedies may be enough to keep your condition at bay. If you are suffering from severe spinal stenosis, or if home remedies are doing you no good, your doctor may recommend physical therapy, medications, or even surgery. Here are a few of the best spinal stenosis treatment methods. Medications The doctor may prescribe the use of pain relievers and anti-depressants. Pain medications may be successful in providing temporary relief and may ease the discomfort associated with the disease. Try not to use them for long periods of time as they can cause more harm than good. Anti-depressants can help ease chronic pain. Again, do not use them for long periods of time.
All You Need to Know about Hidradenitis Suppurativa

All You Need to Know about Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa, commonly referred to as acne inversa, is a chronic skin condition which is difficult and complicated to deal with. Triggered during puberty, teens, or 20s by unhealthy lifestyle habits, this condition is caused by a blockage in the apocrine glands. It is characterized by the appearance of painful bumps under the skin, in the hair roots, or near some sweat glands. They typically occur where skin rubs together, such as in the groin, armpits, and buttocks. The lumps may break open and emit a bad smell or cause tunnels under the skin. Hidradenitis suppurativa can persist for several years, and this skin condition usually worsens with time. It can impact one’s daily life as well as mental well-being. Therefore, it is vital to diagnose it in time so that a doctor can recommend appropriate treatment. With the right treatment, one can also prevent the formation of new lumps and other complications such as depression. Common symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa Hidradenitis suppurativa typically occurs in areas surrounding the hair follicles. It may also appear in a single area or multiple parts of the body. Common signs and symptoms of this disease that you should watch out for include: Red and tender bumps: The condition is often marked by small and tender red bumps which occur in areas where the skin rubs together. These bumps may become bigger and fill with pus. When this pus drains out, it may emit a bad odor. Itching and a burning sensation often accompany these bumps. Blackheads: This is another common symptom of the condition. Small, pitted areas of the skin develop a lot of blackheads that appear in a double-barreled pattern. Extremely painful lumps: Small, pea-sized lumps develop under the skin. These lumps may persist for years together, and at some point, may become swollen and inflamed.
What You Should Know about a Sore Throat from Allergies

What You Should Know about a Sore Throat from Allergies

Dealing With A Sore Throat From Allergies A sore throat is one of the most irritating throat problems that cause a lot of discomforts. Most of the time, it is a sign of a cold and fever. A sore throat usually occurs because of viruses. The virus infected sore throat cures on its own, over a few days. What is a sore throat? A sore throat is a condition which causes irritation and itchiness in the throat. It is a painful and a dry feeling that occurs in the throat. Sore throats are generally caused by viruses. It can be treated through home remedies. A sore throat causes scratching and burning sensation in the throat. The symptoms cause a lot of trouble while swallowing. Sometimes, a sore throat can cause fever and swelling of the lymph nodes. In such situations, one must consult the doctors. Causes There are many causes of a sore throat. The most common causes are as follow. Virus There are different viruses which cause a sore throat. These viruses cause colds and other respiratory infections. The viruses responsible for flu and other infections also cause a sore throat. Bacteria A few bacterial infections like strep throat and diphtheria can cause a sore throat. Toxins and Irritants Sometimes, factors like pollution and chemicals are the reasons for a sore throat. Allergies A sore throat can also occur due to allergies. A sore throat from allergies is more irritating than the normal one. It may not be possible to cure the allergy through home remedies. It is necessary to find out the exact cause behind the allergy to treat a sore throat. In case of a sore throat from allergies, post nasal drip plays a major role. The postnasal drip occurs when there is exposure to an allergen.
Preventive and Clinical Treatments of Migraine

Preventive and Clinical Treatments of Migraine

Primarily a headache disorder, migraine is usually characterized by recurrent headaches and can be diagnosed on the basis of medical history, symptoms, and physical & neurological examination. Migraine is a common problem in the country and is accompanied by physical warning signs like blind spots, nausea, flashes of light, tingling sensation in arms and legs, vomiting, etc. The excruciating pain during migraine last for several hours or even days. To combat this pain, there are several treatments for migraine that help in easing severe pain. Treatments for Migraine There are different treatments for migraine that are known to stop symptoms and avoid future attacks. There are different medications that are designed specifically to treat migraines. Medications used to combat migraines can be classified into the following two categories: Pain-relieving medications – abortive or acute treatment, these medications are usually taken at the time of migraine attack and are specifically designed to stop or avert the symptoms. Preventive medications – These medications are often taken regularly to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. There are some medicines that are not recommended or advised if the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, there are some medicines that are not suitable for children. It is best to consult a doctor before starting any medicine. Pain-relieving Medications Pain-relieving medication should be taken as soon as symptoms of migraine are experienced. The medication works when taking at an initial stage and helps in easing the pain. Also, during migraine attack, it is advised to sleep in a dark room with no light. Migraine treatment medications include: Pain relievers for mild migraines belong to classes and OTC drugs For moderate migraine pain medications belong to Acetaminophen, Aspirin and Caffeine, Triptans are classes of medications that are used for treating moderate to severe types of migraine.
All You Need to Know About Tardive Dyskinesia

All You Need to Know About Tardive Dyskinesia

Tardive dyskinesia is a syndrome that is related to the neurological health of an individual. The medical condition affects a huge number of people not just in the country, but all over the world. Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by the random or involuntary movements of the body parts including the tongue, the lips, the trunk, and the face. The disorder is found to occur in individuals who are treated with dopaminergic antagonist medications for long periods. Thus, people who have been diagnosed with conditions such as a neuropsychiatric disorder or schizophrenia are more vulnerable to the development of tardive dyskinesia. In most cases, tardive dyskinesia is triggered in people who use antipsychotic drugs for long periods of time. However, the condition can even develop among people who have just begun to take the medications. Unfortunately, there is not much that one can do about these drugs, as they are essential to maintaining the overall health of the patient and can even be life-saving. Cause of tardive dyskinesia As mentioned above, the primary cause associated with tardive dyskinesia is the long-term use of neuroleptic and psychotic medications. Also known as neuroleptic drugs, they block a chemical known as dopamine in the brain. It aids in the smoother movement of the muscles while controlling the pleasure and reward centers in the brain. When there is too little production of this chemical, the body movements are affected and there may also be an effect on the motor system. In rare cases, tardive dyskinesia may also be caused because of menopause, aging, and excessive consumption of alcohol or drugs. Diagnosis of tardive dyskinesia The diagnosis of tardive dyskinesia can be a tough process. The symptoms of the condition may not appear for the longest time and may go unnoticed sometimes. Moreover, the timing of the symptoms can make it extremely difficult to understand whether they were actually triggered by the medication or due to some other reason.
Here’s What You Need to Know About Burning Foot Pain

Here’s What You Need to Know About Burning Foot Pain

A burning sensation in your feet is often related to nerve damage caused by certain underlying health conditions, out of which diabetes is one of the major causes. The feeling of pain can range from mild to harsh, and intermittent to constant. Sometimes you may get the feeling of hot, tingling or prickling pain or numbness in your feet which usually gets worse during the night. Causes of burning foot pain Sometimes, cases of burning foot pain have unknown causes. However, most of the times, doctors diagnose a wide range of conditions that lead to the sensation of burning foot pain. Here are some of the top causes: Diabetic neuropathy Uncontrollably high levels of blood sugar can gradually damage your blood vessels and nerves, leading to a reduction in the transmission of signals from the nerves. It can also weaken the blood vessel walls that are responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients to nerves all over the body. Altogether, this can affect the ability to feel sensation in various parts of the body, including the feet. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, around 60-70 percent of people with uncontrolled diabetes have some nerve damage or neuropathy. Certain factors can increase the risk of neuropathy: Obesity High blood pressure Smoking Alcohol consumption When the nerve damage takes place in your legs and feet, it’s known as peripheral neuropathy. It is the most common form of diabetic neuropathy. Apart from the burning sensation in the feet produced by peripheral neuropathy, there are some other symptoms which are as follows: Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet Sharp and stabbing pains Weakness in your legs or arms Excessive sweating Small fiber sensory neuropathy (SFSN) SFSN is painful neuropathy which often leads to a painful burning sensation in the feet.
Know about the Effective Ways to Treat Neuropathy

Know about the Effective Ways to Treat Neuropathy

The primary goal of neuropathy treatment is to address the condition that causes neuropathy. With neuropathy medications, you can effectively get relief from the discomforting symptoms associated with neuropathy. Lab tests are conducted to identify the underlying condition. When your lab tests do not suggest an underlying condition, the doctor might advise you to watch the symptoms closely to find out whether your neuropathy improves or not. Your doctor may also suggest some neuropathy medications depending on your condition. Learn about the most popular neuropathy medications When it comes to the neuropathy medications, there are certain ones which are used for treating conditions connected with neuropathy and utilized to bring relief to the signs and symptoms as well. Pain relievers are the most common medications, and you can also find over-the-counter neuropathy medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They are capable of relieving mild symptoms and painkillers are necessary when it comes to treating more severe symptoms. Opioids neuropathy medications Doctors sometimes prescribe Tramadol Opioids such as Conzip and Ultram, or you can also find oxycodone medications such as Oxycontin and Roxicodone for treating the symptoms of neuropathy. One of the disadvantages of these medications is their dependency and addictive nature. Doctors prescribe these options only when other treatment options fail to deliver results. Anti-seizure neuropathy medications Pregabalin and Gabapentin are some of the popular anti-seizure medications developed to address epilepsy, and they can be used to reduce nerve pain associated with neuropathy. The most common side effects are dizziness and drowsiness. Topical treatments for neuropathy If you are suffering from peripheral neuropathy, you can use capsaicin cream that contains an ingredient usually found in hot peppers, and this cream offers good results. When you are dealing with irritation and skin burn, you can apply this product to reduce these symptoms.
7 Effective Tips to Prevent Asthma Attacks

7 Effective Tips to Prevent Asthma Attacks

Asthma is a lung disorder which results in breathing difficulties, coughing, wheezing, and other symptoms. It is mainly caused by high air pollution, allergy, smoke, dust, cold conditions, and sinus. People who have asthma must focus on how to prevent asthma attacks and reduce it effectively for living a better life. They should follow certain tips for preventing asthma attacks successfully which help enhance the quality of life. Another thing is that they show ways for minimizing the risks in homes, working place, outdoors, and school to reduce potential threats. There are no proper medications available for treating asthma and one should know reducing and relieving the symptoms to improve the living standards. Asthma patients must keep some medicines with them in order to manage sudden attacks. Anyone who wants to know more about how to prevent asthma attacks can follow the below tips for accomplishing goals in life. Taking control over humidity Air quality contributes more in controlling the asthma problems. Poor air quality and extreme hot or cold might trigger asthma disorders in many people. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid them to minimize the symptoms. Moreover, it is always advisable to avoid the exposure of pollution in indoor and outdoor areas that ultimately give ways for keeping lungs in a healthy condition. The following pointers can help in controlling humidity. – Using an air conditioner in indoor areas will help to decrease high humidity levels. – It is advisable to live in an environment that is free from air-borne pollutants, dust, and high pollution. – Limiting the exposure to varying temperatures and damp climate might help prevent asthma attacks. Controlling the dust exposure Dust plays an important role in inducing asthma and people make sure that their home is in a tidy condition. It is an important one to reduce the dust levels and dust mites efficiently for living a trouble-free life.
Don’t ignore these 15 warning signs of esophageal cancer

Don’t ignore these 15 warning signs of esophageal cancer

Esophagus is the muscular tube that connects the throat and the stomach. Esophageal cancer is a form of cancer that affects this muscular tube. It is rare cancer that can also lead to life-threatening complications. Most patients are diagnosed with this condition in its advanced stages as this type of cancer does not show symptoms in the initial stage. Keep reading to learn more about some common alarming signs of esophageal cancer. Warning signs of esophageal cancer Difficulty swallowing Also known as dysphagia, facing trouble swallowing is one of the most common signs of esophageal cancer. Dysphagia can occur because of a tumor that makes it difficult for food to pass through by obstructing the esophagus. The pain and difficulty in swallowing may be because of damage to the nerves that control the movement of esophageal muscles. Alternatively, it can also happen because of physical obstruction. As the tumor grows, the patient might experience increasing pain and difficulty swallowing solid food and eventually face problems with liquids. However, this symptom can also be attributed to several other health conditions. Acid reflux Acid reflux is considered one of the common indicators of esophageal cancer. It occurs when the contents of the stomach or the hydrochloric acid in the stomach go back up into the esophagus. It can cause irritation and inflammation of the food pipe. Chronic acid reflux can result in Barrett’s esophagus. It is a condition in which the esophageal lining changes, making it more susceptible to developing cancer. Chest pain Another symptom of esophageal cancer is chest pain. This results from cancer cells have invaded the chest or the back wall. This chest discomfort can be constant, or it may come and go. Some might even experience worsening pain over time. However, various other conditions share this symptom, so it is important to have yourself examined by a health expert immediately.
5 Common Seasonal Allergy Medications You Should Know Of

5 Common Seasonal Allergy Medications You Should Know Of

Seasonal allergies may cause symptoms like runny nose, excessive cough, cold, fever, and itching of the eye and nose areas. With the help of seasonal allergy medication, you can get relief from these symptoms. It has been reported that one out of every 5 people in the United States suffers from a condition called seasonal allergic rhinitis, also termed as hay fever. Hay fever occurs when the patient is exposed to outdoor allergens like pollen. These allergens cause the immune system to overreact and result in various seasonal allergy symptoms. Diagnosis of hay fever is easy as compared to other allergies since it is only present during a certain time of the year. Some of the symptoms of hay fever include skin rash, watering of the eyes, chest tightness, digestion problems, runny nose, and cough, itching of the eyes, throat and the nose. However, there are many more seasonal allergies that are not quite as common as hay fever. In order to treat the patient with seasonal allergy medication, it is important to know what exactly is causing the allergy by examining the triggers. Changes in the climate can also influence the severity of the seasonal allergy symptoms. The following are a few seasonal allergy medications that are recommended in order to treat these symptoms before they worsen. Nasal Steroids This is a seasonal allergy medication that helps in reducing the inflammation of the nose that is caused by certain types of allergens. Nasal steroids are used in the initial stages of allergic rhinitis or hay fever allergies. This kind of seasonal allergy medication has significant effects on the patient as they not only work on the nasal passage but also on the macro-passages, leukotrienes, mast cells, and the like in order to ensure that the inflammation of the nose is under control.
Things to Know about the Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Things to Know about the Narcissistic Personality Disorder

The narcissistic personality disorder is a mental condition where people gain an escalated perception of their importance, like an intense need for drawing attention, lack of sympathy for others, troubled relationships, and so on. In such a condition, people try to wear a mask of self-confidence, leaving their fragile personality behind. Such a disorder can badly affect one’s personal and professional relationships, and even education or financial affairs. People with this personality disorder can easily become disappointed when they do not get the respect or importance they expect from others. People, in general, prefer to stay away from such personalities as they always find them unfit for social customs and relationships. Here are the causes, symptoms, and the possible treatments of this mental disorder. The causes of narcissistic personality disorder It is very hard to say what actually causes this mental disorder. However, researchers believe that genetics and upbringing factors play key roles in developing the narcissistic disorder. Our personalities are inherited from our ancestors, and if someone thinks that they are different from the crowd and should be treated with special attention and admiration, the person may develop this mental disorder. Researchers have also found that parental neglect often leads to narcissistic disorder among children. Common symptoms of the narcissistic personality disorder The key signs and symptoms of this mental disorder can vary from person to person. However, there are some common symptoms every affected person may demonstrate in different circumstances. People with the narcissistic disorder can exhibit the following symptoms: • They show an extreme desire for self-importance • Always demand respect and admiration • Nurture an understanding of entitlement • Believe that they are superior to others • Believe in daydreams on success, brilliance, power, or beauty • Always expect better treatment and favor • Have an instinct of ignoring others’ feelings and needs • Measure others with envy • Show false arrogance • Love to call themselves the best in everything Ways to deal with the narcissistic personality disorder The primary challenge of dealing with this mental disorder is that people suffering from it never try to understand their fault and never consider it as a mental problem.
What to Include and Avoid in a Hiatal Hernia Diet

What to Include and Avoid in a Hiatal Hernia Diet

It is commonly observed that people whose diet is irregular, suffer through acid reflux problem. It is a prevalent issue in the digestive system where acids accumulate because of unhealthy eating habits and food contents. Mainly oily food, spicy agents, and acidic caffeine based drinks create excessive acids in the digestive tract which at a certain point cannot digest easily. Hence, a severe stomach problem people suffer is of a hiatal hernia. In this type of condition, the stomach’s upper portion presses upward through the diaphragm under the chest area. The main symptom one could face during the existence of a hiatal hernia is the acid reflux. Discomfort and pain caused after eating a specific type of spicy food items is another primary symptom of the respective condition. What are the food items to avoid? Therefore, a hiatal hernia diet should include non-acidic food preparations and liquid products. Some of the food items and ingredients are listed below: Garlic and onion: Raw or cooked both are acidic. They should curtail in food preparations from the hiatal hernia diet plan. Citrus fruits: It is better to avoid citrus foods entirely such as oranges and limes entirely until acid reflux and discomfort last. Tomato-based food items: Pasta in red sauce, salsa, spaghetti sauce all have high tomato content and should not include in the diet plan. Fried and spicy foods: Burgers, fried chicken, nuggets and food that is high in sodium and eliminated. Which beverages are not allowed in hiatal hernia diet? Anything which has acid and bubbles must be avoided. But to clearly understand what is not healthy for you at all, they are stated below: Wine, beer, spirit based drinks, and alcohol are not allowed Coffee filtered or non-filtered both avoided. Avoid caffeinated teas or ginger based tea preparation Seltzer water and soda drinks wholly banned for the hiatal hernia patients Whole milk which has a high-fat percentage and not pasteurized Symptoms of a hiatal hernia Hiatal hernia diet includes various food preparations that have low fat, few carbohydrates, and zero acidic contents.