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6 common mistakes to avoid when managing thyroid eye disease
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6 common mistakes to avoid when managing thyroid eye disease

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and damage to the muscles and tissues around the eye. Common symptoms include dry and irritated eyes, watery eyes, red eyes, bulging eyes, double vision, pain, and difficulty closing the eyes completely. The condition is closely related to Graves’ disease, another autoimmune condition that leads to hyperthyroidism. One must avoid the following six mistakes to manage thyroid eye disease better. Not following healthy eating habits To manage their thyroid health, patients must pay special attention to what they eat. Experts often recommend a special nutritional plan rich in minerals like iodine and selenium to synthesize thyroid hormones. These hormones manage the body’s metabolism, energy production, and hormone balance. Some foods can help improve thyroid function, while others may slow it down. Those with thyroid eye disease should eat foods with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, such as leafy greens, berries, ginger, and green tea. At the same time, they must limit caffeine intake and avoid the following: – Cruciferous vegetables Eating too many cruciferous vegetables may disrupt how the thyroid uses iodine, leading to several health complications in those with thyroid eye disease. Some common cruciferous vegetables one should avoid are broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.
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7 things to avoid for a healthy sleep cycle
Health

7 things to avoid for a healthy sleep cycle

Nothing can heal and relax the body like a good night’s sleep. While some people are getting the recommended amount of sleep—at least eight hours every night—a fairly large population is having trouble falling and staying asleep. In most cases, this can be an outcome of one’s daily habits. Sleep disruption has been a growing concern, but it can be rectified by avoiding certain things for a healthy sleep cycle. Large meals before bed One of the main things to avoid for a healthy sleep cycle is sleeping with a full stomach. Sure, staying hydrated and well-fed through the night is a good practice, but not when one is off to bed within a couple of hours. The body slows down its processes when one is sleeping. This means the food would sit in the stomach for a longer time and might cause uneasiness. This would inadvertently impact the person’s sleep quality. It may also lead to heartburn symptoms. Besides, one should also avoid sleeping with a full bladder as that could mean repeated bathroom visits throughout the night, disrupting the sleep cycle. So, both these things can keep a person from sleeping through the night and impact their brain activity.
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8 questions to ask a doctor during a routine health check-up
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8 questions to ask a doctor during a routine health check-up

An annual checkup is important, as it helps track one’s physical fitness and health. This is an opportunity to ask questions one might have related to one’s health. A family physician may be the best person to go to for regular checkups, as they know one’s medical history and may know which specialist to refer one to in case one has a condition that may require their expertise and diagnosis. Regardless, here are some questions one should ask one’s doctor during a routine checkup. 1. What do these symptoms mean, and which symptoms should be addressed immediately? During the checkup, one should speak to the doctor and inform them about any symptoms they may be experiencing. These could be big or small issues, but it is important to address them. It could be pain somewhere in the body, a mole on the skin, a bump somewhere on the body, sudden fluctuations in body mass, and so on. Patients aware of their condition and have received a diagnosis should confirm with their doctor which symptoms they need to look out for. For instance, someone with an autoimmune condition may need to change their management strategy if they experience sudden flares and symptoms like persistent low-grade fever.
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6 contact lens mistakes and how to avoid them
Health

6 contact lens mistakes and how to avoid them

If one wears contact lenses, either regularly or occasionally, they should adopt certain habits to maintain good eye health. This is because research suggests that those who use contact lenses frequently are at a higher risk of eye conditions like dry eyes. Further, improper handling or use of lenses can increase the risk of eye infections. So, to keep such issues at bay, one must avoid the following mistakes while wearing and storing contact lenses:   1. Not cleaning the contacts As they come in direct contact with the eyes, contact lenses should be carefully and thoroughly cleaned. Lenses can accumulate lipids, proteins, and other microscopic compounds. The deposits of such unwanted substances will only grow if one skips cleanup. This might make wearing the lenses uncomfortable and irritating. To avoid this issue, it is important to clean and disinfect lenses after every use. One should use a fresh contact lens solution every time. It is also important to clean the lens case to ensure it does not carry any contaminants. Once the case is rinsed with the solution, one should let the case dry upside down and place the contact lenses in the case with fresh solution. 2. Touching contacts with dirty hands One of the key things to do when dealing with lenses is to ensure that everything that comes in contact with the lenses is clean.
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Tips and questions to consider when choosing a specialist
Health

Tips and questions to consider when choosing a specialist

Finding the right doctor is the key to getting the best healthcare. The decision can also affect one’s overall health and treatment outcome. So, whether one is looking for a cardiologist, neurologist, oncologist, or any other specialist, it is essential to spend some time shortlisting suitable healthcare professionals before choosing the best one. Additionally, asking the right questions during the initial consultation can help one understand the kind of care the specialist can offer. Tips for choosing a medical specialist 1. Seek referrals and recommendations One can begin their search for a doctor by asking their primary care physician to refer them to a specialist. Alternatively, one can ask friends, family, neighbors, and other acquaintances if they know of a specialist they can recommend. Such recommendations can also give one some insights into the doctor’s qualifications and bedside manner. 2. Consider credentials and experience One should look up the specialist’s qualifications before scheduling an appointment with them. Also, when dealing with a specific health issue, it is better to go with doctors who have experience in treating the condition. One can also check if the doctor is a board-certified healthcare professional. The certification is an indication that the doctor adheres to the standards set by the board.  3.
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How to select the perfect dentures
Health

How to select the perfect dentures

Dentures are a common teeth restoration option that allows one to replace damaged or missing teeth. They are artificial teeth that perfectly resemble real teeth.  By getting dentures, one can ensure that they can speak and chew properly , as well as  regain confidence in smiling.  The decision to opt for dentures can be empowering for many. Consulting a dermatologist and learning how the process works may be helpful for individuals planning to get dentures. Evaluate one’s needs If one is considering getting dentures, the first step is to evaluate their specific requirements.  This  is because  there are  various types of dentures available, depending on one’s needs.  Having clear requirements can help one simplify their decision-making process. To evaluate their requirements, one must first  take into consideration  how many teeth need to be replaced with dentures.  It is also important to determine  how urgently the dentures need to be made and fixed.  Additionally, it is also advisable to have an oral checkup before proceeding with getting dentures made.  This  will enable them and the dentist to identify any oral or dental issues that complicate denture placement. Choose the type of  dentures After evaluating their needs, such as the number of teeth they need  to get  replaced with dentures  – one  can  proceed to  select the type of dentures that best suits their requirements.
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8 common mistakes to avoid with dental implants
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8 common mistakes to avoid with dental implants

Dental implants help people improve the appearance of their teeth. They also help one chew better, speak more clearly, and do the things a regular set of healthy teeth does.  But   dental  implants require frequent care to ensure they work as intended in the long run.  Using these oral healthcare devices improperly, such as cleaning them with the wrong tools or ignoring oral hygiene, could cause them to deteriorate quickly and lead to unnecessary hassle. Being unaware of the options A common mistake is not researching the options before getting dental implants. One should speak to their healthcare provider, such as a dentist, to learn about the types of dental implants available, such as full-arch and single-tooth implants. Getting a partial implant might be better than replacing multiple teeth if the problem is not too severe. After assessing all their options, individuals can decide on the type they want. One could also enquire if the existing teeth could be saved with treatment. Instead of permanent implants, the   dentist may sometimes recommend dentures or adhesive dental bridges that can be removed. Not communicating healthcare  history While getting dental implants, people often hide certain healthcare information, such as ongoing treatments or past dental procedures.
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9 signs one needs to consider dental implants
Health

9 signs one needs to consider dental implants

Healthy, white teeth are embellishments to a smile, so missing a tooth or two can be a matter of concern for many. Dental implants help one gain replacements for their lost teeth, completing one’s smile. With a 98% success rate, these implants are becoming increasingly popular nationwide, and many find them better alternatives to dentures, which aren’t permanent fixtures. If one’s teeth start to exhibit certain signs, it’s probably time to consider dental implants. 1. Cracked or broken teeth Cracked or broken teeth usually can be fixed, but in advanced cases with too much damage, the teeth must be extracted. In such cases, one may want to opt for dental implants to replace the extracted teeth, not only for aesthetic purposes but also to avoid pain and discomfort when biting something hard or crispy. 2. Periodontitis This condition involves severe gum inflammation, which might cause infection. This infection may spread to the bones and other tissues in the oral cavity, especially if the condition isn’t diagnosed early. In advanced cases of periodontitis, the infected teeth need to be extracted and may be replaced by dental implants. 3. Problems with chewing Chewing difficulties may be caused by several factors, including misaligned teeth, a gap where a tooth may have been extracted previously, and dentures that don’t fit well.
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10 signs of developing psoriasis
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10 signs of developing psoriasis

Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition that causes scaly patches on the skin. Although it is a chronic condition with no known cure, there are a few ways to manage its symptoms with treatment and home remedies.  But  for effective long-term management, psoriasis must be diagnosed early.  That’s why one should visit the doctor immediately after developing the symptoms. The signs mainly differ depending on the type of psoriasis a person has. Raised, inflamed patches of skin One of the most common types of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, which leads to raised patches on the skin. These patches are usually red but can sometimes be purple or silver. They result from inflammation of the skin and can be very itchy. Plaque psoriasis patches mostly develop on specific body areas, such as the elbows, knees, trunk, limbs, and scalp. When the patches develop on the scalp, the condition is called scalp psoriasis. Around 45 to 56 percent of psoriasis patients have scalp psoriasis. Flaky skin When psoriasis develops on the scalp, individuals may notice dead skin flakes in the region. These flakes are mostly silvery white. Individuals unaware of the condition may mistake these flakes for dandruff. It is important to note that the flakes caused by psoriasis are very different from those caused by dandruff.
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7 foods to avoid with multiple sclerosis
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7 foods to avoid with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological condition in which the communication between the brain and the rest of the body is severely disrupted. Some of its common symptoms include fatigue, mobility issues, vision problems, numbness and tingling, pain, muscle spasms, problems with learning, thinking, and planning, muscle weakness and stiffness, and various motor problems. Having certain foods can worsen the symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis, so it’s best to avoid such foods. French fries Fried foods occupy the bottom of the barrel when healthcare or nutrition experts talk about what people with multiple sclerosis can safely eat. Foods such as fried chicken, French fries, and red meat are highly processed and deep-fried. These foods contain large proportions of saturated and trans fats, both of which are bad for the body already, but they make things worse for people with multiple sclerosis. Studies have found that saturated fats in the body accelerate the progression of multiple sclerosis. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends people to reduce saturated fat consumption to less than 7% of their daily caloric intake. Further, trans fats, which are equally bad, need to be less than 1% of one’s total calorie consumption. Fruit juices Foods with added sugars and refined sugars are not too far behind in the list of foods to avoid when one has multiple sclerosis.
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Important things to know about kidney problems

Important things to know about kidney problems

Kidney diseases are some of the most common and life-threatening conditions that affect patients worldwide. These diseases lead to kidney function failure over time. It can be caused by various factors, including environmental toxins, genetic predispositions, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Kidney disease can lead to severe health complications such as acute renal failure (ARF), chronic kidney disease (CKD), or chronic renal failure (CRF). A healthy kidney is a sign of a healthy body and lifestyle. The function of the kidney The kidney is an essential organ that performs many functions in the body. It filters the blood, removes waste products and excess water from the body, and helps maintain a person’s balance of electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Kidneys help maintain their normal levels of salt concentration which is essential for the proper functioning of every cell tissue in the body because, without adequate amounts of salt, no cells can function properly. The kidney also plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure and volume by keeping them at appropriate levels through urine production. The kidneys also regulate fluid balance in your body by removing excess water from urine and adding extra water into the urine when necessary for your body tissues not to be dehydrated.  Kidney failure is when a person’s kidneys cannot function properly due to disease or injury; this condition can be fatal if left untreated.
Modifying homes for people with poor vision

Modifying homes for people with poor vision

One of the top reasons for low vision and blindness in people over 55 is macular degeneration. Macular degeneration causes loss of vision due to damage to the macula in the retina of the eye. It can be difficult for people with this condition to live in inaccessible homes. So, to ensure ease of maneuverability for people with macular degeneration or similar conditions, here are 13 tips to make a home low-vision friendly. Use clear and contrasting colors for walls The key to making a low-vision-friendly home is using light and dark colors. Dark colors can be complex for those with low vision, but if used intelligently, it can make all the difference. The answer lies in how light reflects off certain surfaces. If you have a bright yellow wall with black trim around it, then any space adjacent to it will be illuminated by daylight coming through windows above them. Contrasting shades like white or black help keep things cooler by reflecting out more heat than they receive from direct sunlight. Place essential items in your line of sight Ensure that important items, such as mobility aids, phones, and other necessities, are within your line of sight and not obscured by something else in the room.
Key things to know about macular degeneration

Key things to know about macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye disorder that affects the macula, a tiny part of the retina that provides sharp central vision. The most common kind of this disease is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affects many people in our country over 60 years. While there is no cure for macular degeneration, several treatments and lifestyle changes help manage the symptoms and improve your vision so that it does not interfere with everyday life. What are the types of macular degeneration? There are two common types of the condition: Wet or exudative macular degeneration This is the more common type. It occurs when the tiny blood vessels in front of your retina get damaged and leak fluid into your eye, causing swelling, redness, and dampness. The condition can affect your central vision and cause blurry patches in the center. Central vision is the area you see directly in front of you. Dry or atrophic macular degeneration Also known as senile macular degeneration, this condition occurs when the retina does not receive sufficient oxygen due to damage from aging; it results in a breakdown of the central part of the retina (the photoreceptors). What causes this eye disorder? The risk factors include genetics and lifestyle ailments, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes.
Nasal polyps – Symptoms, causes, and management

Nasal polyps – Symptoms, causes, and management

Nasal polyps can be a symptom of an underlying condition or occur independently. The visible signs and symptoms of nasal polyps include congestion, runny nose, loss of smell, and pressure or pain around your eyes and cheeks. A deviated septum may contribute to nasal polyps. However, they can also occur in people who do not have this condition, such as athletes who blow their noses frequently during exercise routines. Read on to learn more about nasal polyps. What are nasal polyps? Nasal polyps are small, soft growths that develop in the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses. They are also sometimes called nasal tumors or nasal corking. They are not cancerous, contagious, or caused by allergies. Nasal polyps may also be associated with other conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), allergic rhinitis (AR), chronic sinusitis (CS), and asthma. Nasal polyps typically develop before the age of 40, and they do not usually cause symptoms until they grow larger or become inflamed or infected.  However, large nasal polyps can block airflow through your nose. If this happens, you may experience sinusitis, headaches, and a stuffy or runny nose. You may also experience difficulty breathing through one nostril at a time if large polyps block the other nostril completely.
Atopic dermatitis – Causes, symptoms, and more

Atopic dermatitis – Causes, symptoms, and more

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a disorder that results in dry, irritable, and inflammatory skin. Though it can affect anyone, young children are more vulnerable to this disorder. The symptoms include recurring (chronic) and sporadic flare-ups, though it is not contagious. Atopic dermatitis patients risk contracting asthma and seasonal and food allergies. Regular moisturizing and skin disease condition-related treatments help alleviate itching and prevent further outbreaks. Using medicated lotions or ointments during treatment is also helpful. Symptoms Depending on an individual’s age, the severity of the condition, and other circumstances, symptoms of atopic dermatitis may vary. Those who have the condition typically experience phases of worsening symptoms, followed by times of improvement or even complete disappearance. The following sections will cover some likely variances in symptoms in more detail. General eczema symptoms Eczema symptoms are usually not severe. The most common signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis include dry, itchy skin, skin flushing, or weeping sores.  Individuals with severe eczema skin disease may need more intensive care to eliminate their problems. Infections of the skin can also result from persistent touching and scratching. The appearance of the skin area afflicted by atopic dermatitis will vary depending on the frequency of itching and infection.

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Afib – Types, causes, symptoms, and management
Health
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Afib – Types, causes, symptoms, and management

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) occurs when the usually stable and regular electrical impulses in the heart’s upper chambers (atria) begin firing chaotically, causing them to quiver or twitch (fibrillate). This can cause blood accumulation and clotting in the atria. These clots can reach the lungs through the blood vessels and cause pulmonary embolism or can reach the brain, resulting in a stroke. Let’s look at the forms, signs, and causes of Afib and its treatment options: Types of atrial fibrillation Afib can be classified as one or more of these: First-diagnosed Afib: Regardless of symptoms or the number or length of episodes, this refers to individuals diagnosed for the first time with Afib. Asymptomatic Afib: This condition is also called silent Afib, given the lack of signs or symptoms. A random electrocardiogram (ECG) could reveal asymptomatic atrial fibrillation. Paroxysmal Afib: Two or more episodes of the conditions that spontaneously resolve within a week are categorized as paroxysmal Afib. Persistent Afib: This refers to two or more episodes of atrial fibrillation that last seven days or more. Long-term persistent Afib: If the condition persists for more than a year, it is referred to as long-term persistent Afib. Permanent Afib: This is a chronic condition that cannot be managed using common treatment options.
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How to reduce sugar intake and manage blood sugar
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How to reduce sugar intake and manage blood sugar

It is a known fact that too much sugar can be devastating for your health. When blood sugar is high, the body produces more insulin, which can lead to several health complications, including prediabetes and diabetes. So, you must cut down on sugar. Choosing healthy snacks and increasing fiber and probiotic intake can help. Moreover, regular exercise is essential. Here are a few tips to lower sugar intake and manage blood sugar levels naturally. Avoid carbohydrates A high intake of carbohydrates has a substantial impact on blood sugar levels. The body breaks down carbohydrates into sugars like glucose, which enters the blood. While the body requires glucose for energy, an excess can be harmful. As the amount of glucose increases, so does the amount of insulin produced by the body, leading to a greater risk of lifestyle disorders. Some foods with an abundance of carbs to stay away from are potato chips and donuts. Control your portion size If you are dealing with frequent blood sugar spikes, monitoring portion size can help. When you eat a large meal, blood glucose increases suddenly. To avoid this, eat smaller meals. You can opt for five to six small meals per day instead of two or three large ones.
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11 management options to keep anxiety at bay
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11 management options to keep anxiety at bay

People with anxiety disorders regularly and excessively experience fear and panic in everyday situations. If unchecked, anxiety can impair normal functioning and degrade the quality of life. One must consult a health expert if anxiety is affecting their social life. But first, ensure that any physical health issues are ruled out before consulting them. Most individuals with anxiety disorders need medication or therapy, but coping strategies and lifestyle decisions can also be helpful. Stop and take a breath When you experience an anxiety episode, take a moment to think about what is making you feel uneasy. Usual anxiety symptoms include concerns about a recent or distant event. For example, you can worry that something wrong will happen to you in the future. Or, you can still be upset about something that has already happened in the past. But, whatever your concerns, most anxiety issues stem from not focusing on the present. The next time you feel nervous and get distracted from the present moment, sit down and take some deep breaths to reclaim your composure. You can regain balance and return to the present moment by pausing and taking a few deep breaths. If you have the time, consider advancing this practice by experimenting with breathing techniques.
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