Shortness of breath occurs when the lungs are not able to absorb oxygen to support vital organs and functions that rely on fresh air. It is one of the most commonly observed discomforts of known health complications that affect respiration. The intensity of breathlessness varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of the triggers. Here are the most common causes of shortness of breath that can affect young children, men, and women. Existing diseases and disorders Shortness of breath is one of the primary noticeable discomforts triggered by health complications that affect respiration. These could range from a panic attack to pneumonia, and even serious asthma flareups. In addition, seasonal allergies causing inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and even chronic respiratory failure can worsen breathlessness. The severity of the symptom will vary depending on the underlying disease. Pollution Exposure to polluted air can also trigger shortness of breath due to the particulate matter irritating the respiratory tract. Carbon monoxide is one of the more dangerous gases that affects breathing and impairs respiratory function. It’s a common pollutant in the atmosphere released during forest fires, volcanic eruptions, and even lightning strikes. Carbon monoxide is also an industrial pollutant that is released due to burning of fossil fuels for powering vehicles and machinery.

The liver is an organ in the body that sits under the rib cage on the right side of the abdomen. It helps filter food and remove toxic substances from the body. The liver might suffer from damage for several reasons, including genetics. There are also other unhealthy lifestyle habits that may trigger complications of the organ. So to maintain a healthy liver and avoid serious health issues, here are seven unhealthy habits one should break. Excess sugar intake It’s a fact that sugar is unhealthy for one’s overall health. And its negative effects could impair liver function. The organ utilizes fructose, derived from sugar, to make fat. But high intake of excessive refined sugars and high fructose corn syrup may cause fatty buildups that can damage the liver. Taking herbal supplements Most herbal products may contain the word “natural.” However, certain herbal products, such as those to curb menopause symptoms or help individuals relax, might be cause for concern. They might lead to health conditions like hepatitis and liver failure. Therefore, one should speak to their healthcare before taking any herbal supplements. Intake of soft drinks While soft drinks are delicious to have occasionally, regular intake may be harmful to the liver.

Blood clotting or coagulation is an important bodily process that helps prevent excessive bleeding after an injury. It is a natural and crucial function of the body. But sometimes, the blood clotting can be abnormal, leading to various health issues. These complications point to blood clotting disorders caused by many factors, such as an underlying health condition, genetics, or certain treatments. Some early warning signs of such disorders are listed below. Inflammation and pain A common sign of blood clotting disorder is pain and swelling in the affected area. It could be anywhere in the body – the legs, arms, or other parts like the chest and abdomen. The skin may be discolored or appear red in the affected area and feel warm to the touch. Shortness of breath Since blood clotting may easily affect blood flow, one might experience shortness of breath. Besides, if the clotting forms in the lungs, it can lead to a severe condition called pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated immediately. Therefore, one should always be careful of sudden breathing issues or even those that develop gradually. Pain in chest If shortness of breath is also accompanied by pain in the chest, it could be a sign of a blood clotting disorder.

The human body produces new bone cells faster when a person is young. But as one ages, especially after 30, the bone density begins to decline. For women, maintaining bone mass is crucial to avoid developing conditions like osteoporosis. While bone deterioration with age cannot be avoided, adopting good lifestyle choices allows one to maintain optimal health at each stage of life. Here are some everyday habits that impair bone health. Bad posture Poor posture for an extended period of time puts unnecessary pressure on one’s muscles and spine. In the long run, it can worsen one’s risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition that makes the bones fragile due to tissue loss. So, one is advised to work on keeping the spine erect and aligned. Not eating calcium-rich foods Calcium is an important component that keeps the bones healthy and strong. The human body cannot make calcium; it is often taken from the foods that one eats. Not eating calcium-rich foods can adversely impact one’s bone health and increase the risk of fractures. Milk, cheese, yogurt, and dairy products are rich sources of calcium. Those who are lactose intolerant can opt for non-dairy calcium-rich alternatives like tofu, almonds, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds, spinach, kale, sardines, salmon, white beans, and collard greens.

The liver is an organ in the body that sits under the rib cage on the right side of the abdomen. It helps filter food and remove toxic substances from the body. The liver might suffer from damage for several reasons, including genetics. There are also other unhealthy lifestyle habits that may trigger complications of the organ. So to maintain a healthy liver and avoid serious health issues, here are seven unhealthy habits one should break. Excess sugar intake It’s a fact that sugar is unhealthy for one’s overall health. And its negative effects could impair liver function. The organ utilizes fructose, derived from sugar, to make fat. But high intake of excessive refined sugars and high fructose corn syrup may cause fatty buildups that can damage the liver. Taking herbal supplements Most herbal products may contain the word “natural.” However, certain herbal products, such as those to curb menopause symptoms or help individuals relax, might be cause for concern. They might lead to health conditions like hepatitis and liver failure. Therefore, one should speak to their healthcare before taking any herbal supplements. Intake of soft drinks While soft drinks are delicious to have occasionally, regular intake may be harmful to the liver.

Blood clotting or coagulation is an important bodily process that helps prevent excessive bleeding after an injury. It is a natural and crucial function of the body. But sometimes, the blood clotting can be abnormal, leading to various health issues. These complications point to blood clotting disorders caused by many factors, such as an underlying health condition, genetics, or certain treatments. Some early warning signs of such disorders are listed below. Inflammation and pain A common sign of blood clotting disorder is pain and swelling in the affected area. It could be anywhere in the body – the legs, arms, or other parts like the chest and abdomen. The skin may be discolored or appear red in the affected area and feel warm to the touch. Shortness of breath Since blood clotting may easily affect blood flow, one might experience shortness of breath. Besides, if the clotting forms in the lungs, it can lead to a severe condition called pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated immediately. Therefore, one should always be careful of sudden breathing issues or even those that develop gradually. Pain in chest If shortness of breath is also accompanied by pain in the chest, it could be a sign of a blood clotting disorder.

The human body produces new bone cells faster when a person is young. But as one ages, especially after 30, the bone density begins to decline. For women, maintaining bone mass is crucial to avoid developing conditions like osteoporosis. While bone deterioration with age cannot be avoided, adopting good lifestyle choices allows one to maintain optimal health at each stage of life. Here are some everyday habits that impair bone health. Bad posture Poor posture for an extended period of time puts unnecessary pressure on one’s muscles and spine. In the long run, it can worsen one’s risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition that makes the bones fragile due to tissue loss. So, one is advised to work on keeping the spine erect and aligned. Not eating calcium-rich foods Calcium is an important component that keeps the bones healthy and strong. The human body cannot make calcium; it is often taken from the foods that one eats. Not eating calcium-rich foods can adversely impact one’s bone health and increase the risk of fractures. Milk, cheese, yogurt, and dairy products are rich sources of calcium. Those who are lactose intolerant can opt for non-dairy calcium-rich alternatives like tofu, almonds, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds, spinach, kale, sardines, salmon, white beans, and collard greens.

Eye care is an integral aspect of one’s general health. However, unbeknownst to many, certain unhealthy nutritional and lifestyle habits can trigger damage to this vital organ. It can include staring at the screen for longer periods, constantly rubbing one’s eyes, and more. Such habits can lead to complications such as eye fatigue and damage to the cornea. Awareness of such unhealthy habits might help one manage them and keep such complications at bay. Excessive screen time Most health experts advise patients with vision problems to follow the 20-20-20 rule while using screens. This rule emphasizes that every 20 minutes of looking at a screen should be followed up by focusing on a spot 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds. Excessive screen time can trigger retinal damage and eye fatigue, and this activity helps reduce the strain on your eyes. Blinking is another way of ensuring your eyes are clean and lubricated. Make it a habit to blink when using screens. Rubbing your eyes Rubbing your eyes can lead to severe complications in the long run. For one, it is impossible to stop rubbing once you have started. Excessively rubbing your eyes can cause microvascular damage to the smaller blood vessels.

Blood clots are gel-like masses that can clog one’s blood vessels. They are made of platelets, proteins, and cells. They can restrict blood flow while moving through the bloodstream or stick to the walls of tiny blood vessels. Clots can affect any part of the body and be life-threatening if they block vitals like the lungs, heart, or brain. Here are some common habits and risk factors that can affect one’s blood circulation over time. Habits to avoid Here are some habits that cause blood clots: Sitting for a prolonged time The modern lifestyle may require one to sit at a desk in front of computers for a long time. Doctors warn that sitting for an extended period can pose a health risk and lead to many health concerns. When one does not move for hours, the blood gets pooled in one place. The flow is also restricted, especially in one’s legs, increasing the risk of blood clotting. Wearing tight clothing and shoes Tight clothes, including jeans or high heels, can make it difficult for blood to flow freely through the body, especially to the legs. Apart from this, tight clothing can also compress the intestines and affect abdominal health, leading to pain or heartburn.

Visiting the gynecologist once a year is important. However, you may feel nervous about scheduling an appointment, with concerns like the need for grooming before a checkup and discomfort you may experience during the examination. Additionally, being on your period can make you put off the visit. This embarrassment can also keep you from asking important questions during your visit. But here are a few seemingly uncomfortable questions you can ask your doctor: Should I be worried about bumps down there? Bumps in intimate areas may not always be a cause for concern. There are numerous reasons for the vaginal area can develop acne or bumps, including shaving. Other reasons could be sebaceous cysts, skin tags, or gentle warts. You do not have to be embarrassed to ask your gynecologist about such skin issues, especially if you experience any pain or changes in the color or size of the bump. Is my vaginal discharge concerning? Vaginal discharge is part of normal reproductive health. However, if the discharge causes discomfort like itching or pain, you should speak to your OB/GYN about it. A cottage cheese-like discharge could be an indication of a yeast infection, while greying vaginal discharge with a raw egg-like odor can be a sign of bacterial vaginosis.