Toenail Fungus – Risk Factors and Treatment Options

Toenail Fungus – Risk Factors and Treatment Options

A toenail infection occurs due to the excess growth of fungi in, under, or on the nail. Fungi that already exist in or on your body can prompt nail infections. Fungi flourish in moist and warm conditions, and hence, this type of environment can trigger them to overpopulate. Fungal infections also spread if you come in contact with someone else who has a fungal infection. These infections develop over time, and there won’t be any immediate difference in the way your nail looks or feels. Therefore, it may be too subtle to notice at first. What causes toenail fungus infections? Various fungal organisms lead to toenail fungus infections. Yeast and molds can also cause this problem. The most common condition is triggered by a type of fungus called dermatophyte. Toenail fungal infection starts from athlete’s foot (foot fungus) and spreads from one nail to another. Even though most of the causes of a fungal nail infection are preventable, some risk factors increase the possibility of its recurrence. More men face the problem of toenail fungus than women, and also it is observed in adults more often than in children. You are more likely to get it if any of your family members gets these types of fungal infections. Because of the poor circulation and slow nail growth, older adults are at the highest risk of getting fungal infections. Also, as the nail ages, it becomes brittle, and the resulting cracks let the fungi enter the nail. The main risk factors for toenail infections are as follows: People with diabetes or who have diseases that cause poor circulation are prone to develop toenail fungus. People over the age of 65 are more likely to develop a nail infection. People who wear artificial nails or wear closed-toe shoes, such as tennis shoes or boots more often can get toenail infection.
Red Eyes – Common Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Red Eyes – Common Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Red eyes refer to a condition in which the white portion of the eye, known as sclera, becomes reddened or “bloodshot.” The redness occurs when the vessels in the eye become inflamed or irritated. Redness in the eye can manifest in various ways ranging from the occurrence of squiggly pink dots on some part of the sclera to the development of lines in the entire sclera. Red eye can happen in either one or both the eyes. A few symptoms associated with red eyes are as follows: Irritation Dryness Itching Pain Watery eyes Blurry vision Burning sensation Sensitivity to light Common causes of red bloodshot eyes There are several allergens present in the environment that can trigger red eye. These allergens include the following. Airborne allergens Pollution in the air caused by smoke Dry air in airplane cabins, closed office buildings, or arid climate Dust Airborne fumes generating from gasoline or solvents Chemical exposure caused by chlorine in swimming pools Excessive exposure to sunlight, for example, going out without wearing UV-blocking sunglasses Some serious eye conditions that can cause red eyes are as follows: Eye trauma or injury Eye infection Conjunctivitis Recent eye surgery including cosmetic eye surgery or laser treatment Scleritis, in which the sclera becomes excessively swollen and red Uveitis Acute glaucoma Corneal ulcer Few lifestyle factors can also trigger red eyes, such as the following. Smoking marijuana or tobacco Excessive alcohol consumption Continual use of digital devices Inadequate sleep Red eye treatment Simple measures can help treat red eyes. Some of these measures are as follows: Avoid rubbing eyes as it promotes mast cell degranulation and histamine release. Instead, you can use cool compresses to alleviate itching. In order to ease mild red eye symptoms, you need to close your eyes and splash cold water several times a day onto your eyelids.
High Blood Pressure – Symptoms and Treatment Options

High Blood Pressure – Symptoms and Treatment Options

Hypertension or high blood pressure is the condition where the amount of force exerted against the artery walls when the blood flows through them is higher than usual. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), one in every three persons in the country over the age of 20 has high blood pressure. Without the right treatment, blood pressure may lead to many health problems including heart failure, stroke, vision loss, and kidney disease. Common symptoms of high blood pressure Hypertension is known as the silent killer as it does not exhibit any symptoms. When the blood pressure reaches 180/110 mmHg, it is considered a medical emergency. Some of the common symptoms of high blood pressure are as follows: Headaches It is one of the most common symptoms of high blood pressure. It may get worse because of factors like stress, migraines or sinusitis. High blood pressure can affect the blood-brain barrier, exert excess pressure on the brain, and lead to blood leaks from the blood vessels. The leaked blood causes swelling, which exerts more pressure on the brain and leads to headaches. Dizzy spells It is another symptom of high blood pressure, but its cause may also be anxiety, the side effect of some medicines, low blood pressure, or pregnancy. High blood pressure can cause the blood vessels in the brain to rupture, narrow or leak, sometimes blocking blood flow too. Due to this blockage, a patient may feel dizzy, and in the worst case, it may lead to a stroke as well. Facial flushing People who consume alcohol, eat hot and spicy food or are prone to food allergies show this symptom. Sometimes, hot flushes are associated with menopause as well. But high blood pressure can cause facial flushing due to the excess flow of blood when the patient is angry or anxious.
Fibromyalgia – Symptoms, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Fibromyalgia – Symptoms, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Treatment

There are a variety of factors leading to the development of the symptoms of fibromyalgia, and it is important to determine the underlying symptoms. If anyone experiences symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as the ones listed below, a timely diagnosis has to be made before treatment can be initiated. Fibromyalgia symptoms checklist The following are some of the common symptoms of fibromyalgia: Widespread pain A dull ache that has persisted over 3 months is not supposed to be concluded as a symptom of fibromyalgia. The pain must be present on both the sides of the body as well as below and above the waist. Fatigue Even after getting sufficient sleep, patients who are suffering from fibromyalgia have complaints of fatigue when they wake up. In most cases, patients with fibromyalgia symptoms could be suffering from other disorders such as sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome. Difficulties with cognition Patients with fibromyalgia suffer from “fibro log” which leads to an impairment of the ability to focus, problems in paying attention, as well as concentrating on tasks involving the mind. There are certain coexisting health issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, various types of headaches including a migraine, interstitial cystitis which is also known as a painful bladder, as well as disorders of the temporomandibular joint, so these can be considered symptoms of fibromyalgia as well. Risk factors that can cause fibromyalgia There could be a plethora of factors that could lead to the development of fibromyalgia: Genetics : One could be prone to acquiring fibromyalgia through various gene mutations which tend to run in the family. Infections : Fibromyalgia can often be triggered by certain illnesses. Trauma : Traumatic incidents like car accidents could contribute to the development of fibromyalgia as well. It could also occur as a result of psychological stress.
5 Foods to Aid Lung Cancer Treatment at Home

5 Foods to Aid Lung Cancer Treatment at Home

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths that occur due to cancer. It is estimated that lung cancer causes more deaths than breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers combined. Based on the statistical data by the American Cancer Society, there are about 220,000 new cases of lung cancer every year. Several types of treatments are being developed and researched on to stop or at least slow down the disease progression in lung cancer patients. Apart from this, several oncologists and nutritionists also suggest that maintaining a proper diet can help in fighting the symptoms of lung cancer. There are some foods that can keep lung cancer symptoms at bay and can also be used as home remedies along with mainstream treatments. Some of the foods that can aid a lung cancer patient are mentioned below: Green tea According to several oncologists, green tea not only helps in preventing lung cancer but can also benefit to those who are living with the disease. Green tea contains theaflavin and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) which can potentiate the effect of chemotherapy medications. It is important to know that bottled green tea may have very little or no EGCG as the compound doesn’t last long when bottled. Nutritionists suggest drinking green tea with a dash of lemon juice as it can enhance the absorption of the compound. Ginger Known for its hot and zesty yet sweet flavor, ginger contains a compound called 6-shogaol that can prevent the development of malignant (cancerous) cells in the lungs through apoptosis (cell suicide) of cancer cells. It can also lower the risk of metastases of the disease thereby stopping or slowing its progression. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can also help in relieving the pain caused due to the side effects of medicines that are used to treat lung cancer.
Remedies to Manage the Side Effects of Lung Cancer Treatments

Remedies to Manage the Side Effects of Lung Cancer Treatments

Cancer is a life-threatening disease, and its prevalence is increasing with an increase in the risk factors like obesity. Other factors like smoking, pollution in the environment, or the inhalation of harmful chemicals or particles can cause several illnesses, one of which is lung cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, lung cancer cases in the year so far account for nearly 13% of the total cancer cases in the country. There are multiple treatment methods that a person undergoes for lung cancer. Though treatments can treat cancer, they might cause side effects like dry mouth, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. These can be managed through medication as well as diet. Different home remedies can help manage the symptoms and side effects of the treatments. Remedies for dry mouth Radiation therapy can often lead to dry mouth as the salivary glands are exposed to radiation. Salivary glands help lubricate the mouth with saliva, and the glands resume their functions after therapy, but they are not as effective as earlier. This causes dry mouth in lung cancer patients who have undergone radiation therapy. There are several home remedies one can take up to treat dry mouth: Rinsing the mouth with water frequently will help retain moisture in the mouth. One can rinse their mouth every 2-3 hours. Adding salt or baking soda to the water can increase the efficiency of this remedy. Regularly applying lip moisturizer will benefit one to keep their lips and mouth moist. Sucking hard candies that have low or no negligible sugar content helps redevelop saliva in the mouth, preventing dry mouth. One may also use cool mist room humidifiers at night to prevent dry mouth while sleeping. Remedies for nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea Chemotherapy used for treating lung cancer can cause vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea in patients.
4 Natural Methods to Support Breast Cancer Treatment

4 Natural Methods to Support Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is a condition that develops in the breast cells. Changes that are known as mutations cause a division of the cancer cells that begin to multiply in an uncontrolled manner. Typically, the cells begin to grow in the ducts and lobules of the breast while spreading to the fatty tissues and connective tissues. Treatment of breast cancer solely depends upon the stage of cancer or the growth of the tumor. The most common forms of treatment employed include surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Apart from medical treatment methods, one can explore some natural methods and therapies that have great supporting effects. Holistic therapies Holistic therapies are widely revered for their great effects in promoting a sense of peace and bringing about a desirable balance in an individual’s state of mind. Not only does it reduce the level of stress but it also aids the patient in feeling more relaxed. While this therapy does not have a direct effect on the control or treatment of breast cancer, holistic therapies are widely reported to bring a positive change in the mental health and the reduction of anxiety among patients. Some of the most popular forms of therapy include aromatherapy, journaling, art therapy, music therapy, dance therapy, and meditation among several others. These holistic therapies can be used in combination or singularly depending on likes and comfort. Special diet A healthy diet can have several desirable effects on the body. While a specially formulated diet does not aid in the cure of cancer or other diseases, it can have several positive effects in the promotion of better overall health. Eating the right food will help in supporting the medical treatments employed for breast cancer and reduce the ill effect of certain treatments. One should consider adding more vitamins and foods rich in minerals as part of the diet plan.
Managing psoriasis flare-ups – Treatment and medications

Managing psoriasis flare-ups – Treatment and medications

How to manage skin flare-ups for psoriasis: treatment and medications Psoriasis is a skin condition that is known to be a recurring autoimmune disorder. This condition is characterized by red, flaky patches on the skin, and there is a rapid buildup of skin cells, which causes scaling on the skin’s surface. Though some treatments help ease the symptoms of psoriasis, there is no cure for this condition. These treatments are a combination of home remedies and prescribed medications to control specific triggers. Different treatment approaches There are two types of approaches to treating this condition. The first is topical and involves direct application of creams and ointments on the skin to relieve mild to moderate psoriasis. The other is the systemic approach, which involves taking medication orally or injecting it directly to treat moderate to severe psoriasis. Since these medications can have severe side-effects, they are just short-term prescriptions. Light therapy is another approach to treatment that uses ultraviolet or natural light to kill the overactive white blood cells that attack healthy skin cells and cause rapid cell growth, leading to the buildup. Patients are advised to use both UVA and UVB light to help reduce the symptoms of this condition. Some trade names to be aware of when getting treated for this condition Skyrizi This is the trade name for risankizumab-rzaa. This medication is an injection prescribed to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. It is not known yet whether Skyrizi is safe or effective for children aged below 18 years. Stelara Its generic name is ustekinumab, and this medication is an immunosuppressant that reduces the effects of a chemical substance in the body that causes inflammation. Unlike skyrizi, this is used to treat plaque psoriasis in adults as well as children aged 12 years and above.
Are You Thinking of Opting for Botox Bladder Control Treatment?

Are You Thinking of Opting for Botox Bladder Control Treatment?

Here’s what you can expect from Botox bladder control treatment. Know this before you sign up for this new treatment option. If you thought Botox treatments are just used to ease the wrinkles on your face, think again. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Botox bladder control treatment is real, and is a viable way to treat an overactive bladder (OAB) condition. Traditionally used for cosmetic purposes to give both men and women alike a smoother and more youthful face, Botox bladder control is the new medical treatment that was approved in 2013. Over these last few years, research suggests that Botox can be used to successfully treat other medical conditions too, one of them being urinary incontinence and overactive bladder issues. If you are thinking of opting for Botox bladder control treatment to treat your OAB or urinary incontinence issues, here are a few things you need to know. What is OAB? The first step is to ascertain whether or not you suffer from OAB. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), you may have OAB or overactive bladder if you generally feel the need to urinate immediately without wasting a moment irrespective of your fluid intake, if you need to urinate at least 8 times during the course of a day and at least twice or more during the night, and/or if you frequently face the problem of involuntary urine leakage. Your OAB symptoms can be treated through a number of medical treatments. Most of these treatment options are directed at calming the muscles and nerves in and around the bladder area. Your doctor may recommend treatment options such as tablets, liquid medications, and/or patches, along with pelvic floor muscle exercises such as Kegels. Is Botox Bladder Control Treatment a Proven Option? Recently approved for treating OAB, Botox bladder control injections work by blocking the nerves and muscles of the bladder that are responsible for causing that urgent need to urinate sensation.
Standard Methods Used for the Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Standard Methods Used for the Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis or DVT occurs when there is a blood clot in one of the deep veins in your body. Here is everything you need to know about the different methods used for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis. When you have a blood clot in one of the deep veins, you are suffering from deep vein thrombosis or DVT. Typically, DVT affects the deep vein in your leg, and may cause swelling and pain in the leg without any other symptoms. You are at a higher risk of developing DVT, if you smoke, are overweight, lead a sedentary lifestyle, and are over the age of 60. It is extremely important that you keep an eye out for the possible signs of DVT, if you have a high risk of developing it. Deep vein thrombosis is considered to be a serious medical condition because if the blood clots break loose from your vein, they can travel to your lungs and block the blood flow there, leading to a life-threatening complication called pulmonary embolism. Therefore, it is crucial to be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms of DVT. DVT can show no symptoms in some of the cases, at least initially. However, when you do experience symptoms they will mostly be a pain in the leg that starts in your calf, and swelling in the leg that is affected. Some of the risk factors that are associated with deep vein thrombosis include prolonged bed rest, surgery, inheriting a blood-clotting disorder, pregnancy, smoking, heart failure, age, and cancer. In order to confirm the diagnosis of DVT, you may have to have tests such as duplex ultrasound, MRI and venography. Duplex ultrasound is a painless diagnostic test that uses sound waves to produce pictures of your blood vessels to check for clots.
Most Promising New Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Options

Most Promising New Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Options

With so many new multiple sclerosis treatment options being made available, it is important to know which ones are proven effective. Multiple Sclerosis or MS is a chronic disease of the nervous system. This debilitating disease affects the myelin sheaths that cover all the nerves in the human body. If you are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, it means that the myelin in your body is progressively thinning and deteriorating. When the myelin sheath on your nerves begins weakening, it causes a whole world of unpredictable problems. Not only do the nerves stop functioning normally, but the speed of nerve signal transmissions also get reduced. Multiple sclerosis causes different symptoms and effects in different people. This means that the MS treatment plan needs to be tailored to suit the specific needs of the person suffering from the disease. While there is no one-cure-fits-all for this disease, there are a number of new multiple sclerosis treatment options that are made available for people who receive their diagnosis. MS Symptoms New multiple sclerosis treatment options are focused on minimizing the severity of the condition, reducing the chance of flare-ups, as well as slowing down the overall progression of the disease. Symptoms such as mobility problems, balance issues, slurred speech patterns, muscle spasms and stiffness, loss of vision, tingling in the body, loss of cognitive functioning, and loss of memory, can severely reduce the quality of the patient’s life. New multiple sclerosis treatment medications are used in tandem with behavioral therapy to alleviate the stress caused by the condition in every way possible. Other than this, there are also a number of support groups that bring together people suffering with MS so you can get the much-needed emotional and practical guidance on how to combat this disease. New Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Options There are a number of new multiple sclerosis treatment medications/drugs and therapies that are now being used to effectively treat this condition.
Everything You Need to Know About Treatment of Impotence

Everything You Need to Know About Treatment of Impotence

Impotence is a common problem that men around the world face. While it is not a life-threatening condition, it hampers the patient’s quality of life. Here are some of the best options for treatment of impotence. Erectile dysfunction is characterized by the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection during intercourse. In general, men over the age of 40 years are susceptible to this condition. Impotency is often caused as a result of various diseases such as multiple sclerosis, vascular diseases, kidney diseases, neurological diseases, endocrine disorders, diabetes, and blood pressure. More than 70 percent of men who suffer from the medical conditions, also report impotency. Men who are diabetic are more susceptible to impotency. Other causes of impotency include any penile injury, hormonal disorder, narrowing of blood vessels caused as a result of standing for a long time, and high blood cholesterol. Treatment of impotence is recommended after proper diagnosis of the physical, hormonal, and psychological problems that go hand-in-hand with this condition. The following are different ways that help in the treatment of impotence. Weight Loss Obesity increases the risk of developing erectile dysfunction, and hence the first step towards treatment of impotence is losing weight. Men who are over-weight are more likely to develop medical conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes, heart diseases, atherosclerosis, etc. which are factors that encourage the development of impotency. Psychological Counseling Erectile dysfunction can also be caused due to high levels of stress, anxiety or depression. In such situations it is recommended to seek help from a professional counselor or therapist who can guide the patient correctly for the treatment of impotence. Medication Treatment of impotence is done with the use of various prescribed pills. Certain medicines are either injected into the penis or need to be inserted inside the tip of the penis.