Lymphoma is a type of cancer affecting the body’s lymph system. This system comprises organs and tissues that help maintain good health and fight infections. Lymph nodes are essential organs of the lymph system affected by the condition. These nodes hold special white blood cells, which keep immunity strong. There are two types of lymphoma, and the symptoms vary according to the type. Here are some early signs and symptoms to never ignore. Swollen or enlarged lymph nodes Both types of lymphoma, Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin, trigger a common symptom: swollen or enlarged lymph nodes. Lymph nodes circulate lymph fluid to the entire body. This fluid contains immune cells crucial in keeping one healthy and performing other vital functions. There are around 600 lymph nodes in the body, which can get swollen or enlarged with lymphoma. However, the lymph nodes in the underarm area, above the collarbone, in the groin region, and at the side of the neck are often affected when someone develops the condition. Although lymph node swelling is an essential sign of lymphoma, it may sometimes be associated with another non-cancerous infection. Hence, individuals must consult a healthcare professional for a diagnosis before jumping to conclusions. The other symptoms of lymphoma can vary depending on the type and location of the cancer.

The herpes simplex virus causes fever blisters or cold sores. They generally appear on the lips and the skin around them. Blisters may appear individually or in groups of ten. They may be a painful infection, leaving patients ill for many days. And since they are open sores, they are susceptible to inflammation caused by the food one eats, affecting healing time. This article enlists eight foods people must avoid when dealing with such sores. Citrus fruits While citrus fruits are an excellent vitamin C source, essential to boost immunity, they are also highly acidic. As a result, they may cause a burning sensation when they come in contact with a blister. Opt for red bell peppers or strawberries instead of oranges, grapefruits, and lemons to maintain healthy vitamin C intake. Processed foods Processed foods may also be detrimental to one’s health during a cold-sore outbreak. This is because processed foods may weaken the immune response, reducing the body’s ability to fight the virus. One must avoid ultra-processed foods like frozen meals, processed pasta dishes, high-calorie snacks, pizzas, and sugary breakfast cereals. Refined sugar The excessive intake of high amounts of refined sugar may also negatively impact gut and immune health, prolonging recovery time.

Herpes is a viral infection caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). This condition is classified into two categories depending on where the symptoms occur: genital herpes and oral herpes. In both cases, the warning signs may not be evident early on. Also, in certain cases, the virus remains dormant for a long time, and the symptoms start showing after many years. Here are some of the warning signs of herpes and common signs and symptoms: Warning signs Some people have experienced a severe outbreak of herpes symptoms without any warning immediately after the infection. But some only go through mild episodes. In either case, a person may have the following warning signs after the initial infection: A tingling sensation in the infected area Constant itching or burning in the infected area Formation of sores or blisters around the mouth or genitals In most cases, the warning signs progress to full-fledged symptoms that last longer. These symptoms can occur anywhere between 2 and 20 days after the first exposure to the virus. Common symptoms of oral herpes Oral herpes can cause blisters to be found around or inside the mouth and the lips. These blisters are also known as cold sores or fever sores.

Herpes is a common viral infection caused due to the herpes simplex virus or HSV. While the virus affects people differently, its primary symptom is the appearance of blisters around one’s genitals or mouth. There’s no known cure for the condition, but studies show that maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating the right foods can minimize its impact and alleviate its symptoms. Here are some foods that are best avoided for managing herpes better. Peanuts Peanuts are rich in arginine, an amino acid that can promote the growth of the herpes virus. Hence, those with the condition should avoid snacking on these nuts. Arginine is also found in chickpeas, soybeans, turkey and chicken breasts, pork loin, pumpkin seeds, and chocolate. While these foods are not inherently harmful, they can trigger herpes outbreaks. French fries Highly processed foods, including French fries, chicken nuggets, chips, pretzels, fast food, processed meat, and particular snacks, can weaken the immune system and promote inflammation. This can, in turn, lead to herpes flare-ups. Hence, patients should avoid these foods and instead opt for whole grains, quinoa, legumes, and millets. Eggs, fish, and avocados can also boost one’s immunity, making them suitable for those with herpes. Candy High sugar intake can lead to an imbalance in blood sugar levels, making it easier for the herpes virus to activate.

Blisters can quickly escalate into uncomfortable and potentially painful conditions if not addressed in their early stages. Understanding the subtle yet crucial warning signs of blister formation is paramount for proactive prevention and effective management. Whether one is an avid hiker, a dedicated athlete, or simply navigating the demands of daily life, this knowledge is essential as it equips everyone with the information needed to safeguard their skin and maintain optimal comfort. Skin sensitivity and redness When skin becomes sensitive, it’s reacting to the pressure or friction it’s enduring. This heightened sensitivity is an early signal that the skin is under stress. It’s akin to a gentle alarm, alerting individuals to take heed. As the pressure continues, the area might also start to redden. This redness indicates the body’s response to the stress, as increased blood flow rushes to the area to support and heal the compromised skin. Warmth and swelling As the skin endures sustained pressure or friction, it responds by sending more blood to the affected area. This increased blood flow leads to the sensation of warmth. Swelling may occur as the body works to support and repair the skin. This phase can be likened to a natural ‘first aid’ response from the body, mobilizing resources to assist the stressed skin.

Short bowel syndrome refers to a condition that occurs when a major portion of a person’s small intestine has been removed. The small intestine is responsible for absorbing nutrients and water from the food one eats. Therefore, the removal of a major portion of it can significantly impact this absorption process. Consequently, people with short bowel syndrome need to change their food regimen. This includes avoiding certain foods, such as the following: Foods with high sugar content Sugar-rich foods can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This can cause one’s body to draw excess water into the bowels, leading to loose stools and frequent bowel movements. This further causes dehydration and loss of nutrients. Hence, patients with short bowel syndrome must avoid sugary foods such as candies, sweets, pastries, cakes, cookies, etc. They must also avoid sodas and sugary beverages, which often contain high fructose corn syrup. Foods with high fiber content Due to the reduction in the size of the small intestine, it gets harder for the body to absorb fibers, especially insoluble fiber. Hence, patients with short bowel syndrome must avoid foods with high amounts of fiber (particularly insoluble fiber). These include whole-grain products (like whole-wheat bread and bran products), legumes (like beans, lentils, and chickpeas), and certain vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussel sprouts.

Lung health is essential for one’s overall well-being. While not much can be done about environmental pollutants that can increase the risk of lung diseases, one can follow a nutrient-rich food regime to promote lung function and reduce the impact of free radicals on them. Let’s explore ten foods that can help reduce the severity of lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis and improve one’s quality of life. Beets Beetroots and beet greens are a great source of nitrates, which can help improve lung function. Nitrates help relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and improve oxygen intake. This can improve lung performance among those with chronic lung conditions such as COPD and pulmonary hypertension. They are also a source of magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and carotenoid antioxidants, which can boost immunity. Apples Regular intake of apples may help boost lung function. This is because apples contain high amounts of antioxidants such as flavonoids and vitamin C, which can reduce the risk of asthma, lung cancer, and COPD, and improve lung performance. Turmeric Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory food that is popularly used in several cuisines around the world. According to some studies, the main active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, may help enhance lung function by 9.2%.

Our eyes help us see what’s around us so that we can react accordingly. Since they perform such a crucial function, we must maintain them by following healthy practices. Sadly, many ignore eye care and increase their risk of ocular conditions. These conditions are usually treatable with timely intervention, but prevention is always better than cure. Below are a few simple yet practical ways to maintain eye health in the long run. 1. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the functioning of the meibomian gland. This oil gland protects against age-related macular degeneration and dry eye disease. Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and should be a part of one’s meals to protect the eyes. Nuts like walnuts and seeds like flax and chia seeds are also rich in this essential nutrient. 2. Maintain an active lifestyle Moderate-intensity exercises considerably reduce eye pressure, lowering one’s risk of glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and other eye disorders. Hence, individuals should avoid a sedentary lifestyle and incorporate walking, jogging, skipping, cycling, swimming, or other exercises into daily workouts. 3. Wear shades while stepping out during the day In the long run, persistent and direct exposure to sunlight can trigger several eye diseases, including macular degeneration, corneal damage, and cataracts.

Chest or lung congestion often occurs due to a common cold. Sometimes, an underlying medical condition like bronchitis, COPD, and so on can also cause persistent lung congestion. Additionally, excess fluids, such as mucus, can accumulate in the lungs, adding to the congestion. This also causes swelling of the lungs along with constriction of the airflow, which makes breathing difficult. Therefore, it is imperative to look at the signs and manage them through treatment options. Signs of congestion in lungs An affected person may experience: A hacking cough with clear, green, or dark yellow mucus A feeling of tightness in the chest A sore throat Constant body aches and frequent chills A persistent headache High fever that may last for a few days Shortness of breath or wheezing Most of the symptoms of chest congestion usually subside within a few days. However, the cough may persist for a couple of weeks as the bronchial tubes complete their healing process. If the cough lasts for more than 14 days, it is advisable to consult a doctor at the earliest. This sign might be an indicator of other serious health conditions, such as pneumonia. Tips for managing the signs of lung congestion In most cases, lung congestion can be effectively treated by rest and waiting for the virus to clear.

It’s essential to maintain the overall health of our eyes, especially in the modern world where constant exposure to screens is the norm. Our eyes are our window to the outside world; therefore, it is very important to take care of them. This guide sheds light on the four crucial tips and tricks to keep the eyes strong and healthy. Those who wear contact or colored lenses should care even more for their eyes. Tips to keep the eyes healthy Here are a few tips that one should follow to keep their eyes healthy: 1. Invest in high-quality sunglasses High-quality sunglasses serve as protectors of the eyes, not merely as accessories. They protect the eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light, which has been shown to hasten cataract formation and other eye diseases. Look for sunglasses that give 100% UV protection while buying them. This guarantees that the eyes are protected from UVA and UVB radiation, which can gradually harm the sensitive eye components. 2. Boost vitamin intake Adding vitamin-rich foods like carrots, oranges, and almonds to one’s meal plan is essential to taking care of one’s eyes. Plant pigments like beta-carotene and lutein are quite helpful in improving eyesight and reducing vision-related issues.