Popular Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Gout

Popular Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Gout

Contrary to the previous belief that it is rare to develop both rheumatoid arthritis and gout, in recent years, it is observed that rheumatoid arthritis patients are at high risk of developing gout in the near future. Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is an autoimmune disease where the joints in your body suffer from chronic joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Gout is another type of arthritis where the uric acid level in a person’s body is alarmingly high, leading to the formation of uric acid crystals that cause joint pain and stiffness. Both the diseases are inflammatory diseases, and many times it is difficult for the doctors to deduce which type of arthritis you are suffering from. Also, men are more likely to suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and gout together than women. Is it Gout or RA? Diagnosing the illness at the initial stage is very important. Though both the conditions have similar signs and symptoms, if you look carefully you can make out the difference. Here are some signs that differentiate the two: In most of the cases, gout occurs in the base of the big toe. Common areas that get affected by RA are the joints of your wrist and hands. You will always experience redness, swelling, and inflammation of joints when you are suffering from gouty arthritis symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis is painful, but it is not always followed by swelling and reddening of the affected area. In this article, you will learn about some common rheumatoid arthritis and gouty foot pain treatments. Treatment for Gout About 4 % of the population suffer from gout at some point in their life. This makes gout one of the most common types of arthritis that people suffer from today. There are two types of medication for gout foot pain, short-term medication, and long-term medication.
Here’s How to Identify a Skin Rash

Here’s How to Identify a Skin Rash

Skin rashes can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and downright embarrassing. A skin rash might affect you for multiple reasons and knowing the cause or trigger for your skin rash will go a long way in treating and preventing their occurrence. A rash can be identified based on the appearance of the skin affected. The skin could be red, have bumps, become scaly and itchy. Moreover, there are a host of other ways to identify a skin rash. Make sure to take note of all the symptoms and the appearance of the rash. You can get a rash due to a multitude of reasons. The main reasons for rashes include: Allergens Medications Cosmetics Certain diseases Allergic contact dermatitis This condition covers any rash that occurs when the skin comes into physical contact with an allergen. Knowing what you are allergic to is imperative as you can then take care to avoid it. Sometimes, you can be allergic to multiple things. Taking an allergy test is the best way to tackle this type of rash. In case you still do not know the cause of your allergy, it is best you do not touch the rash. Use warm water and a mild soap over it. In most cases, the allergen sticking to your skin will wash away with this step. If the rash persists, you can use a hydrocortisone cream over the rash. If your rash is accompanied by blisters, then a cold compress can do wonders to relieve the pain. Use this compress three times a day until the blisters disappear. Drug rashes Drug rashes are any rashes that are caused due to the body’s reaction to certain medication. Drug rashes vary from being mild to life-threatening. Drug rashes can appear instantaneously or can even appear weeks later. There are three types of drug rashes:
A Brief Insight Into the Types of Magnesium Supplements

A Brief Insight Into the Types of Magnesium Supplements

Various studies clearly reveal that around 40 % of the people have a magnesium deficiency. When you are not consuming an adequate amount of magnesium, you become highly prone to health issues and diseases such as depression, musculoskeletal disorders, diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Magnesium plays a big role in your body The best magnesium supplements, such as magnesium malate and magnesium glycinate, are capable of addressing this deficiency. You can purchase some of the best magnesium supplements easily from the market or over the counter. Various circumstances lead to this deficiency, and they include Candida parasites, shifting gut bacteria and poor diet. Magnesium has a vital role to play in controlling several important processes inside your body. You can also make use of diets rich in magnesium foods, such as spinach, to increase the levels of magnesium in your body. Different types of magnesium supplements You can find different types of some of the best magnesium supplements and each one has its own absorption rates and therapeutic properties. Glycinate It can be described as a very well absorbed supplement and is one of the best magnesium supplements available. This one offers a relaxing effect on your body. Magnesium glycinate is an excellent choice for nerve pain or leaky gut. Stress can lead to a magnesium deficiency, but you can easily improve the levels of magnesium with the help of this supplement. Sulfate Sulfate, also known as Epsom salt, is highly beneficial for aching and sore muscle and can also be used for detoxifying the body. Since it is not a well absorbed one, you have to be very careful about the dosage. You can purchase sulfate over the counter and the cost of this supplement is on the lower side. This type of magnesium is extensively utilized as a laxative, and you must avoid the consumption of this supplement if you are suffering from sulfur allergies.
Here’s What You Need to Know About Alcohol Rehabilitation Programs

Here’s What You Need to Know About Alcohol Rehabilitation Programs

Alcoholism is the severe dependency and inability to control on consumption of alcohol by an individual. This type of addiction is irrespective of legal and health issues. Alcohol rehabilitation program provides services and recovery treatments to people who are addicted to alcohol. The addiction could be to the point that they might start experiencing health deterioration due to overconsumption of alcohol and withdrawal symptoms on quitting alcohol even for a brief period of time. Goals of an alcohol rehabilitation program The first and foremost important goal of an alcohol rehabilitation program is to end alcohol abuse. It can be achieved by making gradual psychological, personal and interpersonal changes that can help you remain abstinent from alcohol. The rehabilitation program also aims to improve overall health and explain the benefits of sobriety, aiming to reduce future health risks. Being addicted to alcohol comes with its set of psychiatric disorders and psychological problems. This is because the person has been addicted to alcohol for a significant amount of time. This could be because of an underlying psychological trauma and psychiatric disorder that might have stemmed from the previous physical or mental abuse. The program also aims to make the person completely addiction-free and integrate back into the society. These programs help the rehabilitees and former alcoholics to meet educational and employment needs. They also help them resolve legal issues that they might have had before rehabilitation. How does an alcoholic rehabilitation program work? Alcohol rehabilitation program works on the idea of keeping the person under observation until they are free from addiction. As it has been mentioned in the previous section that, a person addicted to alcohol might be due to an underlying condition, there is a high possibility that the person might quit the program and resume to their old routine.
6 Effective Herbal Remedies for Anxiety and Insomnia

6 Effective Herbal Remedies for Anxiety and Insomnia

People are so engrossed in surviving in this stressful world that they forget how to live; everything is centered around survival these days. In a bid to acquire all the luxuries-turned-necessities, they have accepted physical and mental exhaustion as a part of their lives. The main repercussions of leading such a stressful life manifest itself in the form of anxiety or insomnia, which is familiar to modern-day individuals. The major parts of life that trigger anxiety and insomnia are money, work, family, health, and love. Thinking about these things can get someone’s heart racing, their breathing becomes shallow and rapid, and they start experiencing a sense of impending doom that may or may not be accurate. This is what a full-blown anxiety attack feels like. Similarly, all these factors can also keep one up at night, and this is not the regular “I slept in the afternoon, so I can’t sleep at night” thing. People often get addicted to sleeping pills because they are desperate for a good night’s sleep. However, sleeping pills are not the answer to insomnia, especially not in the long run. The modern-day individual faces a “devil and the deep blue sea” situation with anxiety and insomnia perched at different ends. If someone isn’t keen on popping different pills, they can try various herbal remedies for anxiety and insomnia that are known to yield desirable results. Chamomile Chamomile is one of the most effective herbal remedies for anxiety and insomnia. Even if a person is feeling jittery, a cup of chamomile tea can set things right again. Chamomile is known to contain some compounds that bind to the brain receptors like the medication Valium does, and has a similar calming effect. Chamomile supplements also work wonders for patients diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD); such patients have displayed a notable decrease in anxiety symptoms as compared to those taking a placebo.
Vitiligo – Signs, causes, and treatments

Vitiligo – Signs, causes, and treatments

Vitiligo is a common skin condition affecting about one percent of the population worldwide. It is characterized by the loss of skin color or discoloration. It commonly begins to appear on the face, arms, hands, and feet, but it can affect any part of the skin. While the condition can affect one at any age, over half of the people with vitiligo notice skin lightening before the age of 20. Signs of vitiligo The most noticeable sign of vitiligo is the patchy loss of skin color. Other symptoms include patches of hair on the body that turn silver, gray, or white, loss of color in the mucus membranes (nose and mouth), and/or changes to one’s eye color. Causes of vitiligo Vitiligo occurs when the melanocytes, or the pigment-producing cells in the body, stop producing melanin or die. While the exact cause of this condition is not known, many healthcare experts believe that it may be a result of an autoimmune condition, a genetic mutation, trigger events such as stress, sunburn, or trauma, or environmental factors like exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation or toxic chemicals. Treatment options for vitiligo Topical treatment for repigmentation Certain ointments may be prescribed to help with skin repigmentation when dealing with non-segmental vitiligo. These options can be used on the affected areas of the skin. One should consult a doctor regarding the frequency of use. Light therapy Phototherapy or light therapy using medical-grade UVB lasers might also be used to restore skin color and reduce the appearance of vitiligo patches. Depigmentation therapy In this line of treatment, the leftover pigment in the skin is removed to match the color of the affected skin and help achieve an even skin tone. Surgery Doctors may suggest surgeries such as skin grafts or blister grafts to cover or treat the vitiligo-affected areas of the skin.
Causes and Triggers of Sinus Problems

Causes and Triggers of Sinus Problems

Sinuses are the area in the forehead just in the center of the eyes and behind the cheekbones. They are hollow air spaces whose primary function is to make mucus. This mucus keeps the inner side of your nose moist, thus protecting you from pollutants, allergies dust, and more. Hence, sinuses are not the cause of any problem. The problem occurs when you have a cold or any other allergy, and your nose gets swollen. This swelling blocks the sinus passage of your nose, making you feel uncomfortable. You may also find yourself unable to drain the nose. If you have a blockage in the sinus area of your nose, your speech is also affected. Let’s have a look at some of the common causes and triggers that can lead to sinus problems. Viruses Usually, sinus infections start with a cold. When you have a cold, your nasal tissues gets swollen, blocking the holes that drain the sinuses which leads to breathing difficulties. In case a virus is the cause of your sinus infection, then antibiotics are not capable of curing it as these medicines only kill bacteria, and not viruses. One should wash their hands regularly and keep themselves away from any sinus-infected person. Most of the times, a decongestant will cure you in four to five days. Allergies Allergies are one of the most common causes of sinus problems. People with a sinus infection can develop allergies, thus leading to aggravated sinusitis. If you are prone to allergies, avoid things that lead to an allergic reaction like dust, cockroaches, and so on. Prescribed nasal sprays can reduce chronic inflammation in the nasal lining that accompanies an allergy. Bacteria In case your sinus infection or cold does not get better in ten to twelve days, you may have a bacterial infection.
Best Treatments for Allergy Cough

Best Treatments for Allergy Cough

Coughing can be caused by cold or flu, but it can also be a symptom of an allergic reaction. To treat a cough that’s caused by allergies, you can try traditional remedies. In fact, these remedies can sometimes be effective in treating cough caused by flu and cold. Allergy Cough Treatment Whether caused by cold or allergies, a bad cough can be irritating and chronic coughing can cause pain and tiredness. Medications You can try decongestants, cough suppressants, and expectorants. Decongestants help by drying up mucus, reducing inflammation, and opening up air passages. Cough suppressants soothe the throat and block the cough reflex. Expectorants thin the mucus, making it easy for you to spit it out. Decongestants can increase blood pressure, so those with cardiac issues should consult a doctor before using decongestants. Hot Shower The heat can help decongest your nose and reduce post nasal drip that tickles your throat and causes coughing. Lots of Water Always stay hydrated as it helps prevent many ailments and helps clear toxins from the body. It also helps to thin out the mucus and prevent throat dryness that can also cause coughing. Mentholated Syrup A mentholated cough drop or syrup can help to soothe and numb the throat. It can also ease the pain and irritation. Best Home Remedies for Allergy Cough Treatments Many traditional remedies have been used for several years, to treat a cold and allergic cough. Here are a few of the best allergy treatments that you that can try: Honey Honey is a traditional remedy for a cough. It lubricates the throat and acts as a natural cough suppressant. Take a spoonful of honey and swallow it slowly, one sip at a time and let it go down your throat slowly. Mix a tablespoon of honey in warm water and drink it slowly.
Tips to Design the Best Diet for Fibromyalgia

Tips to Design the Best Diet for Fibromyalgia

The best diet for fibromyalgia usually contains foods that exclude dietary excitotoxins. They may be present in food additives or preservatives which are used in artificial sweeteners, processed foods as well as canned food. Avoiding these foods in your diet reduces the occurrence of fibromyalgia. How to choose the best diet for fibromyalgia To craft the best diet for fibromyalgia, one needs to determine the impact of dietary excitotoxins. Neurons in the brain get excited when one consumes chemicals like dietary excitotoxins, and excessive consumption could prove fatal. Food additives for making food sweeter or more flavorful are the most common types of dietary excitotoxins. Eradicating excitotoxins from the diet would be one of the most radical ways of reducing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Here are some tips that will help you design the best diet for fibromyalgia: Avoid foods with added glutamate: A neurotransmitter, glutamate, is a chemical used by nerve cells to transmit signals to other cells. It is included in some foods as well. Sometimes, it is used to enhance the flavor of food. A common type of glutamate, monosodium glutamate (MSG) is found in some diets, and one should avoid the foods which use this additive at all costs. Monosodium glutamate is found in ingredients with hydrolyzed protein concentrate, autolyzed, or protein isolate. Monosodium glutamate is often used in Chinese foods, certain types of chips or snacks which are crunchy, canned vegetables and soups as well as processed meats. So, avoid buying foods if you see MSG on the ingredients lists or if they have a high glutamate content. Whole foods, not processed foods: When it comes to natural nutrients, whole foods are far better than processed foods like white pasta, white flour, or white rice. Processed foods contain more additives and fewer nutrients. If you need carbohydrates, then you should have whole grains such as quinoa, whole wheat berries, brown rice, whole wheat berries, sweet or plain potatoes.
12 Tips to Relieve Stomach Pain Due to Gas and Bloating

12 Tips to Relieve Stomach Pain Due to Gas and Bloating

Stomach gas and bloating are disorders that could seem as simple as typical discomfort. However, it could even be a symptom of a more serious, underlying condition. Gas accumulates in the body as a natural byproduct of the digestive process. However, when this gas is not passed out through flatulence or burping, it builds up in the gut and causes bloating. Read on to find some tips to get relief from stomach gas and bloating. Remedies to get relief from stomach pain due to gas Quick relief Avoid resisting the sensation of passing gas: Many people try to avoid passing gas so that they are not embarrassed in public. However, doing this will lead to the accumulation of gas and more bloating. It is advisable to try and find a somewhat private place and pass gas to stop any stomach pain. If you find it difficult to release gas, try taking a short yet brisk walk or lying down and relaxing your muscles. Consume chamomile or mint tea: Both mint and chamomile can soothe the stomach and aid with digestion. One can consume these teas available in the form of tea-bags after steeping it in hot water. Take activated charcoal supplements: These can relieve cramps due to gas and bloating. It is relatively more effective as compared to other remedies for stomach pain due to gas. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking these, especially if you are on any other medications. Apply a hot water compress: For immediate relief, lie down and place a hot water bottle or compress across your stomach. It will help relieve abdominal pressure due to gas and bloating. This remedy truly helps people get relief from pain due to excessive stomach gas and bloating. Lifestyle changes Avoid foods that tend to cause bloating:
Causes of Bad Breath and Ways to Cure It

Causes of Bad Breath and Ways to Cure It

Halitosis or as it is commonly known, bad breath, is an embarrassing condition. Gum, mints, mouthwashes, and other products designed to fight bad breath are only temporary measures as they don’t address the cause of the problem. Some food items, health conditions, and habits are the main causes of bad breath. You can cure bad breath with proper and consistent dental hygiene. The malodor may vary depending on the underlying cause. If self-care techniques don’t work, it is best to see your dentist or physician to make sure that it isn’t a symptom of other serious condition. Symptoms Some people may have bad breath and don’t know about it. Other people worry too much about their breath even though they have little or no mouth odor. It is hard to self-assess your breath. Therefore, ask a close friend or relative to check if you have bad breath. Causes There are many probable causes for bad breath. They are: Food The breakdown of food particles in your mouth increases bacteria and causes a foul odor. When you eat certain foods like onions, garlic, and spices, they enter your bloodstream, are carried to your lungs, and affect your breath. Tobacco products Smokers and oral tobacco users are prone to having gum diseases, which could lead to bad breath. Tobacco has an unpleasant odor as well. Poor dental hygiene Food particles remain in your mouth and cause bad breath if you don’t brush and floss daily. Plaque, a colorless and sticky film of bacteria, forms on your teeth. This plaque can irritate your gums and eventually form plaque-filled pockets between your teeth and gums if you don’t brush regularly. Not only your teeth, but the tongue can also trap bacteria that produce odors. Dry mouth or xerostomia Saliva helps cleanse your mouth. If you have a problem with your salivary glands, it may result in chronic dry mouth.
Popular Elements in and Types of Diets for Multiple Sclerosis

Popular Elements in and Types of Diets for Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a deadly disease in which immune system attacks the covering of the nerves. It is a disorder which involves central nervous system mainly brain and spinal cord. MS is a life-threatening condition and is incurable once developed. Mostly optic eye nerves located in the brain are most affected than others. MRI scans reveal swelling or inflammation as white dots called plaques in such disease. Multiple Sclerosis is usually diagnosed in adults and uncommon in childhood. Immediate blood relatives like children, brothers, sisters, and non-identical twins are at the higher risk of acquiring MS than the unrelated ones. The body’s repair system depends on its extent of recovery. Women are at a higher risk to be exposed to MS than men. There is no specific cause of MS, and it mostly develops because of genetic and environmental factors. MS is considered to be an autoimmune disease in which immune system starts to attack healthy tissues. The prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis varies extensively between geographical locations. MS has been known for years, but its pathogenesis is still unknown. MS does not affect the peripheral nervous system, but it affects myelin sheath of the central nervous system in particular. Patients having MS experience enormous physical and physiological disturbances. MS is a neurological condition which occurs when our immune system is not working properly. Common symptoms include vision problems, cognitive problems, bladder and bowel problems, paralysis, erectile dysfunction, tremors, muscle spasticity, painful involuntary muscle contractions, fatigue, urinary retention, etc. Diet for Multiple Sclerosis Diet for Multiple Sclerosis can help to cure the condition to a greater extent rather than using stronger medicines or drugs. Even the most advanced modern drugs cannot provide complete relief from the progression of the disease. Eating exact amount of food, right nutrients in right amounts can help to lower down the symptoms of the disease.