7 things to know about pain relief gummies for arthritis

7 things to know about pain relief gummies for arthritis

Different health gummies are now available for a myriad of health issues, including arthritis. These gummies are easy to chew, tasty, and work for those who have difficulty swallowing pills. Also, the body absorbs the nutrients in gummies better. So, doctors may prescribe gummies to patients with arthritis to alleviate joint pain and help manage its symptoms. But patients with arthritis should be aware of certain things before having these gummies: Not the only treatment option Gummies are only a part of a comprehensive treatment plan to remedy arthritis; they cannot be used in isolation. Typically, doctors recommend gummies alongside other treatments, such as physiotherapy, oral interventions, massage, hot and cold compress, and acupuncture. Prefer quality brands Gummy brands must prioritize product quality, revealing all the ingredients used and being tested for safety. They should also be transparent about the third-party testing information, with labels and details printed on the packaging. Start with a small dosage Just like any other treatment option, gummies for arthritis may also have specific side effects, which may differ among patients. So, those with joint pain should start with small doses of gummies, increasing the dosage slowly under a doctor’s supervision and observing how the body reacts to them.
Read More
Causes, symptoms, and management of thyroid eye disease

Causes, symptoms, and management of thyroid eye disease

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune condition that affects the eyes, causing inflammation and damage to the tissues, muscles, and connective and fatty tissues in the region. Also known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy or Graves’ orbitopathy, TED typically develops in those with Graves’ disease—an autoimmune disorder causing overactivity of the thyroid gland. But TED can also develop in those with other thyroid disorders and even those without any such dysfunction. Causes Here are a few causes and risk factors of TED: Gender: Hyperthyroidism develops more in women than men, so as a result, thyroid eye disease also is more common among women than men—16 cases per 100,000 women and 2.9 per 100,000 men. Genetics: This plays an important role in the incidence of TED. Those with the condition may carry the genes for it or could have a genetic susceptibility to it. Someone predisposed to this disease may only experience symptoms once the condition is triggered due to certain circumstances. Selenium deficiency: Individuals with low levels of the mineral selenium in their blood are also at risk of developing this disease. Graves’ disease: The immune system of those with Graves’ disease creates an abnormal antibody called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin that mimics the function of the thyroid-stimulating hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
Read More
5 natural remedies for relief from sinus congestion

5 natural remedies for relief from sinus congestion

Sinus congestion can make one uncomfortable, cause headaches, interfere with sleep, and prevent easy breathing. To relieve this, many natural and at-home remedies are available that don’t require much effort or cost money. These remedies help loosen mucus in the sinus passages and allow for faster draining. Viruses, allergens, and bacteria are the most common causes of sinus congestion, and here are five natural remedies for it. Water Staying hydrated is one of the first things one should do in the case of sinus congestion. Water helps dilute the mucus secretion and allows for easier drainage. Drinking adequate amounts of fluids like water, hot tea, clear soups, and herbal teas can provide relief and help the mucus membrane function efficiently. Avoid anything with caffeine, as it can be dehydrating. Focus on nourishing beverages and soothing drinks. Steam inhalation is also an effective natural remedy for relief from sinus congestion. It warms up and moisturizes the sinus passageways, allowing the mucus to be easily drained. Adding essential oils like eucalyptus can help with congestion. Warm compress Placing a warm compress on the nose, forehead, cheeks, and eyes can help relieve the pressure and discomfort in the nasal passage. One could also soak a towel in warm water, squeeze the excess, and drape it over the face.
Read More
Warning signs and causes of myelodysplastic syndromes

Warning signs and causes of myelodysplastic syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of rare disorders often categorized as cancer. They occur when the bone marrow does not work properly and produces unhealthy blood cells. Myelodysplastic syndromes are usually observed in people who are 65 years or older, but a younger person may also be diagnosed with it in rare cases. Here are some of the most common warning signs and causes of the condition one should know. Warning signs of myelodysplastic syndromes The disorder usually does not trigger any symptoms in the early stages, so most people are diagnosed much later. Besides, myelodysplastic syndromes typically cause low counts of blood cells. As a result, some people find out only after a routine blood test. However, having a low blood count or anemia does not necessarily mean a person has the disorder, so one should show the reports to a doctor. Almost all warning signs of myelodysplastic syndromes are similar to those of other less severe health disorders. Therefore, seeking expert advice is important for correct diagnosis whenever any of the signs are observed. Dyspnea A person may start to experience dyspnea or breathlessness, even without doing any physically straining activity or work. Fatigue A low blood cell count may cause oxygen levels to drop, leading to a persistent feeling of tiredness.
Read More
6 mistakes to avoid when battling the flu

6 mistakes to avoid when battling the flu

Conditions like the flu and common cold are not easy to dodge. Almost everyone gets the flu at least twice or thrice a year, and those with seasonal allergies face flare-ups as soon as the weather changes. While the symptoms typically persist for 3-5 days, sometimes, they last longer. This can be exacerbated by mistakes a person may commit while recovering from the flu. So, here are some common mistakes that need to be avoided. Keeping up with usual routine When one is down with the flu, their immune system works harder than usual to combat the germs. Therefore, the body requires all the energy possible to fight the flu. Resting, napping, and sleeping as much as possible are ways to help the system recover. But instead, if one continues to power through their usual routine, such as going to work or school, it will take longer for the flu symptoms to get better. Ignoring the flu symptoms for too long The flu takes about a couple of days to a week to subside. But for proper symptom management, one must pay attention to the signs and take necessary precautions. Taking enough rest, making healthy nutrition choices, and taking flu prescriptions are some ways to get better.
Read More
Managing multiple sclerosis – Foods to avoid

Managing multiple sclerosis – Foods to avoid

Multiple sclerosis is a condition that is triggered by external forces. It causes the immune system to attack the nerves of the body, making it difficult for the messages to be carried from the brain to different body parts. This leads to the inability to continue with day-to-day activities. There is no cure for this disease yet, but avoiding certain foods and changing lifestyle habits may help manage the illness and its symptoms. Foods to avoid to manage multiple sclerosis Food is an essential source of energy and nutrition. It provides the body with vitamins and minerals that help fight against diseases and bacteria. Even though there are no proper guidelines that multiple sclerosis patients can follow, avoiding certain foods can help them manage their symptoms better. Let’s look at some of them: Foods with saturated fats Some of the significant sources of saturated fats are animal products and other by-products such as dairy and red meat, which have also been linked to various heart diseases and inflammation. A recent study also pointed out that foods containing high amounts of saturated fats are connected to the relapsing Multiple sclerosis symptoms. Hence it is advised to steer clear of them. Processed foods Processed foods usually contain additives to increase their shelf life.
Read More
Avoid these 6 foods to manage bronchitis symptoms

Avoid these 6 foods to manage bronchitis symptoms

Bronchitis is when the bronchial tubes that carry air to the lungs get infected or swollen. It can lead to coughing, throat ache, increased mucus production, and general cold-like symptoms like body aches or chills. Bronchitis is mostly caused by viruses that do not respond to treatment, so patients often have to wait to feel better. However, symptoms can be managed by eating right. So, here are six foods to avoid when affected by bronchitis: Foods rich in sodium Sodium causes water retention, leading to shortness of breath in people with lung diseases such as bronchitis. This includes the food’s natural sodium content, as well as any added salt (by itself or in condiments and dressings). To limit sodium intake, one should cut back on salty foods and seasonings. One should also check the labels before buying a food item to confirm that the product doesn’t contain more than 300 milligrams of salt per serving. One can choose herbs and spices instead of sauces to reduce salt and keep food flavorful. Dairy products When dairy products are broken down for digestion, an exorphin called casomorphin is released, which has been linked to the production of thicker mucus. This can cause irritation in people with bronchitis.
Read More
7 subtle signs that may indicate schizophrenia

7 subtle signs that may indicate schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe brain disorder where individuals start to perceive reality in different ways. Studies indicate that mental illness affects about 1.1 percent of the adult population in the country. Treatment methods, therapies, and coping mechanisms can help an individual cope with the condition. However, diagnosing the disorder may take time as the symptoms do not surface until later in life. So here are seven subtle symptoms that may indicate the development of schizophrenia. Social withdrawal One of the signs that are easy to miss is social withdrawal. Here the individual may exclude themselves from opportunities for social interactions. The person may not avoid talking to others because they believe no one understands them. The sign may eventually lead to social isolation, where the individual may also avoid talking to friends and family members. Social withdrawal, when left unchecked, may also lead to depression – a symptom of schizophrenia. Outbursts of negative emotions Signs like hostility, extreme reactions to criticisms or jokes, suspiciousness, and impulsivity are signs seen in the general population. But there’s a chance that people with anger issues or those who always doubt others might be experiencing early signs of schizophrenia. Unlike others, an individual in the early stages of schizophrenia may exhibit sudden negative emotions for no apparent reason.
Read More
8 foods to be avoided when diagnosed with hyperkalemia

8 foods to be avoided when diagnosed with hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia is a condition characterized by excessive potassium levels in the blood, typically caused by kidney disease or over-consumption of potassium-rich foods. Although potassium is an essential nutrient, excessive potassium can lead to several negative consequences, including chest pain, weakened muscles, nausea, irregular heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Alongside proper therapy, a healthy lifestyle and carefully curated meals can help alleviate hyperkalemia effects. Look at some foods that are a no-no for individuals with hyperkalemia. Potassium-rich fruits Several fruits contain high potassium levels, with bananas containing the highest potassium content. An average banana has about 450 mg of potassium; thus, consuming one banana every day can contribute to hyperkalemia symptoms in individuals suffering from the condition. Other high-potassium fruits include avocados, papayas, apricots, oranges, cantaloupes, and mangoes. It helps to replace high-potassium fruits with those low in potassium, such as apples, raspberries, blueberries, red grapes, and pineapples. Potatoes Potatoes are rich sources of potassium, mainly when consumed with the skin. A medium baked potato contains 941 mg of potassium, which can be generally nutritious but unhealthy for individuals diagnosed with hyperkalemia. Sweet potatoes also contain almost equal potassium concentrations, with one sweet potato consisting of 700 mg of the nutrient.
Read More
Avoid these 8 foods when dealing with Crohn’s disease

Avoid these 8 foods when dealing with Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can lead to inflammation of the digestive tract along with other complications. Foods to add and avoid differ for each person, based on what triggers their symptoms. As symptoms can lead to repercussions like malnutrition, it is necessary to prevent extreme nutrient deprivation by making better choices. So here are some common foods that can trigger Crohn’s disease symptoms: Dairy and dairy products Those who are lactose intolerant must avoid dairy and dairy products. Lactose intolerance involves the improper or incomplete absorption of lactose—a kind of sugar found in milk, cheese, and other dairy products. It can lead to bloating, diarrhea, and gas, worsening the symptoms of IBDs. These products, however, contain important nutrients such as vitamin D, calcium, and protein, so it is important to substitute them adequately. These nutrients can be found in green leafy vegetables, fortified juices, or supplements. Spicy foods Spicy foods can aggravate symptoms like pain, especially during Crohn’s flare-ups. So, one should limit spices like allspice, black pepper, cayenne powder, chili powder, jalapenos, garlic, paprika, and wasabi, as they can act as irritants in the digestive tract. Instead, one can add flavor to their food using turmeric, ginger, cumin, lemon peels, fresh herbs, mustard, and chives (or green onions).
Read More