Is Laser Stretch Mark Removal Worth It?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 18, 2018 Last Edited: December 18, 2018

Arch

Stretch marks are among the most common skin conditions. They affect both women and men and can happen in times of rapid growth, weight gain, and weight loss. While not dangerous, stretch marks often cause embarrassment and a sense of inadequacy in those who have them.

Over the years, numerous treatments and therapies for stretch marks have appeared though none of them managed to remove them completely.

However, along with surgery, laser treatments have shown the most promising results thus far. They are very expensive and can last up to several months. But, is laser stretch mark removal worth it? Read on for an in-depth analysis.

Stretch Marks 101

Stretch marks, also referred to as striae, are a type of scarring, colored differently than the normal skin around them. Striae can be red or purple in the early stages. Over time, however, they lose pigmentation and turn white. They form in the dermis, the middle layer of the skin. Experts agree that once formed, stretch marks can’t be completely removed.

Stretch marks usually appear in places where there are large amounts of fat. This means, abdomen, upper arms, thighs, underarms, back, breasts, buttocks, and hips are commonly affected.

Striae can happen during times of intensive growth, such as puberty and pregnancy. Bodybuilders and people who gain or lose large amounts of weight over a short period of time can also develop stretch marks. Finally, though more prevalent in women, stretch marks affect men, as well.

Laser Treatment

Laser treatment is one of the popular ways of treating stretch marks. It consists of removing the marks through laser resurfacing of the skin. In a nutshell, it removes the skin’s outer layer to help it restructure its surface. The procedure involves treating the affected skin with concentrated light beams that are supposed to spur the growth of new, healthy skin.

It should be noted that laser treatment, similar to other treatments, can’t remove stretch marks completely. It can only treat them and diminish them to an extent. The treatment can also make them smoother and less visible.

Laser treatment doesn’t involve cuts, therefore it is non-invasive. You will need less time to recover from a laser treatment than a surgical operation. Typically, you should be able to return to your daily duties in a matter of days.

Types of Laser Treatment

At the time of this writing, there are two main types of laser treatment – non-ablative and ablative.

The former (which includes Fraxel and Alexandrite) is not used to destroy the top layer of skin. It is, instead, used to stimulate the underlying layers of skin to start making increased amounts of collagen.

On the other hand, ablative laser treatments (Erbium YAG, CO2) destroy the top layer of skin in order to make room for a new top layer to emerge. The new skin would be smoother, both in appearance and in texture. Like the non-ablative, ablative laser treatments are only partially successful.

Duration of the Treatment

Ablative laser treatments can last up to 90 minutes, while the non-ablative types are typically half an hour long. Aside from the time under the laser, you should also account for the preparation time and paperwork.

Recovery

After a session, the treated areas might become pink. This is a regular side effect, commonly associated with all types of laser stretch mark removal. If you opt for an ablative laser treatment, you can expect discomfort and raw skin in the treated areas. Also, expect the skin to scab after some time. It should be noted that non-ablative lasers take more time to show results.

If you’re getting laser treatment, you should take that day off. In case it is an ablative procedure, consider taking several days off.

Price

Usually, it will take multiple sessions to achieve the desired result, regardless of the type of laser treatment you choose. The prices for both ablative and non-ablative laser treatment are commonly in the four-figure region, though the former may be twice as expensive.

Also, you should account for additional expenses. These can include, but are not limited to, costs of laboratory tests, consultation and office fees, anesthetics, and pain remedies (should you need them after the treatment).

Considering the possibility of multiple sessions and additional expenses, the total cost of a laser stretch mark removal treatment can easily surpass the $10,000 mark.

You should also be aware that removing stretch marks via laser treatments is considered an aesthetic/cosmetic procedure. Therefore, it is not covered by health insurance. Laser therapy can only be covered if it is medically necessary.

Alternatives

Surgery, microneedling, and microdermabrasion are alternative methods to laser treatment. They offer varying degrees of success. However, none of them can remove stretch marks completely. Here’s a quick overview of each method.

Surgery

Surgery is an invasive way to treat stretch marks. It usually involves only one intervention and is an expensive way to go about it. Prices vary, depending on the treated area. The total cost of multiple laser treatments can easily be higher than that of surgery. However, surgery may be more effective than laser treatments.

If you opt for surgery, you should also account for anesthetics and hospital fees. Recovery time depends largely on your age, body weight, and overall health. You might experience intense pain for days following the surgery, while the swellings can last up to several months.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a non-invasive procedure that uses tiny needles on a roller to prick your skin in the areas affected by stretch marks. It is substantially more affordable than laser treatments. The downside is that it is far less effective than laser treatments or surgery. If you’re pregnant, this method is not advised.

Microdermabrasion

While not technically invasive, microdermabrasion includes peeling off the surface layer of your skin with a special applicator. Alternatively, sodium bicarbonate or aluminum oxide sprays might be used in combination with a suction machine. This is the most affordable alternative to laser treatments, but it only brings short-term results.

Conclusion

Stretch marks can’t be removed completely, though some treatments can considerably reduce the lesions. Laser treatments are among the most effective as well as the most expensive and time-consuming. As opposed to some other non-invasive treatments, they offer long-term results.

However, the question remains – is laser stretch mark removal worth it? The answer to this question depends on your willingness to go through multiple laser treatments, pay the high treatment fees, and endure the post-treatment pain.

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK436005/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17263216
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5782435/
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-a-tummy-tuck-can-and-cant-do
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5640351/
https://www.stretchmarks.org/microdermabrasion/

Health

Most Common Dry Mouth Causes

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 17, 2018 Last Edited: December 17, 2018

John

Dry mouth is an unpleasant, often embarrassing condition. It is caused by a lack of saliva production which is, in turn, often caused by some other medical condition. People suffering from dry mouth syndrome might experience weakened taste, bad breath, difficulty chewing and swallowing, and a host of other symptoms.

Xerostomia (Latin name for dry mouth) can be a side effect of a wide variety of diseases and medical conditions. Dry mouth causes also include radiation therapy, certain medications, and aging. Luckily, dry mouth can successfully be treated in a variety of ways. Read on to find out more about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of dry mouth syndrome.

Dry Mouth Symptoms

Xerostomia can easily be detected, as it comes with a wide range of symptoms. If you have it, you might notice some or all of the following problems:

Bad breath
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, and even speaking
Thick and stringy saliva
A changed or weakened sense of taste
Frequently thirst
A sense of stickiness and dryness in the mouth
Sore or dry throat or hoarseness
Grooved, red, dry, or hoarse tongue
Lipstick sticking to teeth

Dry Mouth Causes

Many things can lead to reduced salivary gland activity. Some of the most common dry mouth causes include medications, radiation and chemotherapy, nerve damage, infections and diseases, recreational drug use, dehydration, aging, tobacco, alcohol use, and more. Here’s a word or two on each of the major causes.

Many medications, including some over-the-counter drugs, may cause your salivary glands to produce less saliva. The drugs most commonly associated with this condition include antidepressants, antianxiety drugs, high blood pressure medications, decongestants, antihistamines, pain medications, and muscle relaxants.
Radiation and chemotherapy. Radiation treatments and chemotherapy drugs may cause temporary or permanent irregularities in saliva production. It is not unusual to experience such problems while receiving head and neck radiation treatment.
Nerve damage. A surgery that caused nerve damage to your neck or head area can cause reduced saliva production. Nerve injuries in these areas can cause these problems.
Other infections and diseases. HIV/AIDS, anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, cystic fibrosis, Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes, mumps, hypertension, and stroke are among the diseases and conditions that might cause a temporary or permanent reduction in saliva production.
Recreational drug use. Virtually all of the most widespread recreational drugs can cause dry mouth, including marijuana, opioids, and methamphetamine.
Conditions which cause dehydration include excessive sweating, fever, diarrhea, sweating, burns, and blood loss. They can all cause xerostomia, as well.
Aging, the presence of long-term health issues, poor or inadequate nutrition, and a decreased ability to process medication can cause dry mouth. This study, published in 2015 by Joanna Ngo and William Murray Thompson, posits that dry mouth syndrome presents a serious problem for aging patients.
Tobacco. Chewing and smoking tobacco can lead to reduced saliva production.
Alcohol dehydrates the entire body, including the mouth. Prolonged use can cause temporary or permanent irregularities in saliva production.

Dry Mouth Complications

Apart from its primary symptoms, dry mouth syndrome is often followed by additional problems and health issues. Those suffering from xerostomia might experience some or all of the following complications: mouth sores, yeast infection (thrush), tooth decay, increased plaque, split skin or sores at the corners of the mouth, gum disease, cracked lips, and nutritional problems due to difficulties with swallowing and chewing.

How is Dry Mouth Diagnosed?

In order to determine what’s causing xerostomia, your doctor might need to go through your medical history and examine all the drugs you are taking, if any. Blood tests, salivary gland scans, and other tests might also be necessary. In case your doctor suspects the culprit is Sjogren’s syndrome, a biopsy of your salivary glands might be in order.

Dry Mouth Treatments

Once your doctor or dentist diagnose you with xerostomia, they may approach the treatment in several ways. Here’s a word or two on some of the most common treatment methods.

Mouthwash and moisturizer. If you suffer from mild to intermediate xerostomia, your doctor or dentist might prescribe artificial saliva, mouth rinses, or moisturizers. Mouthwashes with xylitol are among the most efficient.
Change your medications. In case your dry mouth syndrome is caused by your use of medications, your doctor or dentist might change your prescriptions or regulate the dosage of your current drugs.
Dental protection. In case of severe problems with saliva production, your dentist might prescribe fluoride trays for you to wear at night over your teeth. Also, you might get prescribed a chlorhexidine rinse.
Saliva stimulating drugs. The doctor might also prescribe you one of the many drugs that stimulate the production of saliva.

Other Things You Can Do

After you’ve been diagnosed with dry mouth syndrome and started your prescribed therapy, there are several additional things you can do to speed up the recovery process. Here are some of them.

Chew gum. You can try chewing sugar-free and xylitol-rich gum. Also, you can try sucking on sugarless hard candies. However, be cautious, as xylitol might cause diarrhea and stomach gasses if you ingest too much of it.
Breathing through the nose. If you breathe through your mouth and snore when you sleep, you might want to seek help for it.
Try lip moisturizer. To deal with cracked lips and sores around your mouth, you should apply lip moisturizer.
Increase the intake of healthy liquids. You should make sure to drink enough water throughout the day. Other sugarless drinks count, as well. If you don’t mind the cold, you can try sucking on ice chips. Also, it might be a good idea to drink some water while you eat.
Avoid foods, beverages, medications, and products that cause dry mouth. These include alcohol, caffeine, decongestants, antihistamines, tobacco, and sugary and acidic candies.

Final Words

Xerostomia (dry mouth syndrome) can manifest in a wide range of unpleasant symptoms. Some of them are bad breath, increased teeth cavity, plaque, cracked lips, and mouth sores.

The main dry mouth causes include alcohol and substance abuse, aging, medications, cancer treatment, and pre-existing illnesses and infections. Luckily, this condition can be treated with a wide range of over-the-counter and home remedies.

Apart from being unhealthy, dry mouth can also be socially awkward and embarrassing. It is, therefore, very important to react speedily and go see your doctor as soon as you notice the symptoms.

References

https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/dry-mouth
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3939554/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4278738/

Congress Legalizes Hemp in Latest Farm Bill

Written By: John

Published Date: December 17, 2018 Last Edited: December 17, 2018

John

The recently passed Farm Bill, signed by President Trump, legalizes hemp production in the United States for the first time since 1970.

The bill does not legalize cannabis, aka marijuana, and the psychoactive cannabinoid THC, but it does clear the way for the production of industrial hemp products like rope, fabric, and also will allow the production of the non-psychoactive cannabinoid CBD.

As more and more states decriminalize medical and recreational cannabis, this law is seen as an important step toward easing federal regulation of cannabis products. It is also expected to be a boon to the CBD industry, as it will also allow federal funding of research into the medical benefits of CBD in treating conditions such as fibromyalgia.

Image: Elena Schweitzer / Shutterstock

Highlights:

The bipartisan bill was introduced in April and was sponsored by Sens. McConnell (R-KY), Rand Paul (R-KY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Ron Wyden (D-OR)
Legalizing hemp will give farmers a new cash crop which can help make up losses that some farmers who traditionally grew tobacco are seeing
Hemp is a good rotation crop for farmers. Hemp breathes in CO2, detoxifies the soil, and prevents soil erosion
10 States and Washington DC have legalized recreational cannabis with THC, and 32 states have legalized medical cannabis
The bill will allow state departments of agriculture to make their own rules regarding the cultivation of hemp products
The Farm Bill does not allow for the legal use of pot for medical or recreational purposes; it only deals with hemp

At a time when farm income is down and growers are struggling, industrial hemp is a bright spot of agriculture’s future. My provision in the Farm Bill will not only legalize domestic hemp, but it will also allow state departments of agriculture to be responsible for its oversight

— Leader McConnell (@senatemajldr) December 11, 2018

Go deeper:

Congress just voted to legalize hemp – Vox
Hemp 101: What Is Hemp, What’s It Used for, and Why Is It Illegal? – Leafly
Congress just legalized hemp. That’s huge for the CBD industry– Vox
THC vs CBD: What Works for Fibro Symptoms – RedOrbit
How Effective is CBD oil for Fibromyalgia Treatment? – RedOrbit

Is Fibromyalgia Misdiagnosed as ADHD in Young People?

Written By: Holly Case

Published Date: December 17, 2018 Last Edited: December 17, 2018

John

Fibromyalgia is a complicated illness. The experts still aren’t sure exactly what causes it or how to cure it. But researchers discover new correlations every day and develop clues about the nature of the illness. The more recent interesting finding from researchers is a possible link with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses in young people, which leads to a later diagnosis of fibromyalgia in children instead. If you’re not sure how these can be related, read on for the details.

How was This Link Discovered?

A medical company called EpicGenetics developed the first FDA-approved blood test for fibromyalgia in 2012. The test, called the FM/a test, only requires a single drop of blood. The FM/a test evaluates white blood cell production and looks for abnormalities that indicate fibromyalgia.

The company found that 80 percent of people under the age of 19 who received a positive test result for fibromyalgia were previously diagnosed with ADHD. A later blood test revealed that the accurate diagnosis was instead fibromyalgia.

The Similarity Between ADHD and Fibromyalgia

Both ADHD and fibromyalgia are little-understood diseases. When young children experience issues like chronic pain, it may cause them to act out and misbehave. This misbehavior can be disruptive at home and at school.

The symptoms of ADHD and fibromyalgia in children can have some similarities. That can make the two difficult to diagnose without further testing. Some of the shared symptoms often present in both ADHD include fibromyalgia are the following:

Chronic pain
Difficulty with concentration and attention
Cognitive dysfunction
Problems with finding words

The brain chemicals involved in ADHD and fibromyalgia are also similar. Some of the brain chemicals in both ADHD and fibromyalgia are dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline. Researchers believe that irregular dopamine regulation causes the same problems with cognitive functions in both fibromyalgia and ADHD.

Why Proper Diagnosis is So Important

It can be a very big deal when children get diagnosed with ADHD. An ADHD diagnosis affects the type of education a kid receives, which means that a false diagnosis could cause young people to get special education services when they aren’t needed. Being labeled with ADHD can shape not only how a school sees a child, but can also affect how the child sees themselves.

Medications used to treat ADHD can be damaging if taken by people who don’t need them, especially young people whose bodies are still developing. Most medications for ADHD, including Ritalin and Adderall, are stimulants. These drugs carry some health risks on their own, especially if there are undiagnosed heart problems. These drugs are also often abused by young people. Taking these medications should be a carefully considered decision for young people with ADHD. Use extra caution with these medications if fibromyalgia could be a possibility.

What are the Symptoms of Juvenile Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a difficult illness to understand. But even for those who are familiar with the symptoms of fibromyalgia in adults, they may not be able to recognize them in children or young people. That’s because the symptoms of fibromyalgia often look different in young people than in adults. Some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia in children and teens include the following:

Symptoms may begin after a physical trauma, surgery, or psychologically stressful event.
They may complain of nonspecific, widespread pain. The pain is usually on both sides of the body and below the waist. The symptom generally lasts for at least three months. Parents may mistake the pain for general “tummy aches” or even growing pains.
Children may have regular headaches. These often occur every day and don’t respond to standard treatment.
They may have sleep problems. Problems include difficulty falling asleep or not sleeping long enough.
They may also have leg pain, which can be a contributing factor in sleep problems.
Children may also experience sadness or worry, even to the level of depression and anxiety.

It’s important to take these concerns seriously when children and teens have any of the above symptoms. Seek medical and psychiatric evaluations when problems continue. Don’t dismiss the child’s complaints as being all in their head. Problems could be related to undiagnosed fibromyalgia.

Further Studies

EpicGenetics is using their test to identify fibromyalgia in children, adults, and the elderly. Those who test positive for fibromyalgia are then referred to participate in a study. The study, conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, will be focused on the use of a vaccine called bCG (bacillus Calmette-Guerin.) The inexpensive vaccine is used worldwide to fight tuberculosis. But it may also have anti-inflammatory benefits which can be helpful in treating fibromyalgia.

Having an accurate diagnosis is important for a lot of reasons. If you or someone you love was diagnosed with ADHD when younger but have the symptoms of fibromyalgia, consider getting the test. You may be able to help others if you participate in the study, too.

Health

5 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms – What to Expect

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 17, 2018 Last Edited: December 17, 2018

Arch

The vast majority of future moms discover they’re pregnant at around the fifth week. The most common sign of things to come is missing one’s period. By the fifth week, hCG hormone levels are high enough to be detected by a home pregnancy test kit.

In the fifth week, though not very visible on the outside, big and important changes are happening in a pregnant woman’s body. The placenta begins to form and hormone levels change. Concurrently, the embryo is beginning to form into a fetus and develop bodily systems and organs.

The fifth week, or the beginning of the second month of the first trimester, is commonly accompanied by a wide range of symptoms. Some of the most common 5 weeks pregnant symptoms include nausea, sore breasts, food cravings, and fatigue. They can range from mild to severely unpleasant. On the other hand, a percentage of pregnant women experience few to none of the symptoms that are common in this period.

If you are in your fifth week or suspect you might be pregnant, read on for more info on the symptoms and embryo development.

Hormones at 5 Weeks

By the fifth week, significant changes within your body have either taken place or are about to. Primarily, your hormonal balance has gone through changes to support the development of the fetus. Your body will produce more estrogen than usual in order to keep hCG and progesterone levels high enough.

Progesterone stimulates breast growth, prevents the smooth uterus muscles from contracting, and makes sure the placenta continues forming.

On the other side, hCG provides support to the corpus luteum which nourishes the embryo until the tenth week when the placenta takes over. Also, the corpus luteum regulates the production of progesterone.

Symptoms at 5 Weeks

With hormone changes in full swing, moms to be might also have a wide range of other symptoms. Some pregnant women might experience an almost complete lack of 5 weeks pregnant symptoms, which include food cravings and aversions, fatigue, nausea (especially in the morning), sore breasts, cramps, increased urination, spotting, and mood swings. Here’s a word or two about each of them.

Food cravings and aversions. Due to an increased hormonal activity and erratic changes in their balance, some pregnant women might experience food cravings and aversions in this period. It is not uncommon to suddenly feel disgusted by the things you loved until recently or to crave foods you normally couldn’t stand. When the cravings kick in, indulge them in moderation and try to find healthy replacements if you crave sweets and junk food.
Fatigue. During the first trimester, your body will undergo serious changes. The most important one is the formation of your baby’s life support system – the placenta. That’s a huge task and it can be seriously taxing. Hormonal changes and mood swings can contribute to the feeling of tiredness, as well. You might experience anything from mild fatigue to full-blown exhaustion. If you feel tired, give yourself plenty of rest and make sure you’re eating enough.
Nausea. Nausea is one of the most common symptoms at this stage which a majority of future moms experience. Some have it worse than others, while some may not have it at all. It is normal to feel nauseous at any time of the day but especially in the morning. Sometimes, nausea can cause vomiting. Hormone level shifts are the most likely culprit here. To keep nausea at bay, eat regularly, even if you don’t quite feel like it.
Sore breasts. Together with morning sickness, sore breasts are the most common symptom experienced in the fifth week of pregnancy. This happens because your breasts are starting to grow again in preparation of breastfeeding.
If you’re getting cramps in and around the fifth week, it might mean that your uterus is growing (and causing your ligaments to stretch) or that the embryo has implanted into its lining. The cramps can go from mild to severe. If they’re painful, you should check with your doctor.
Increased urination. This is one of the common symptoms. It is caused by the growth of your kidneys. This is due to a higher amount of blood in your body and the fact that the kidneys now have to process more fluid. Although frequent trips to the toilet can be annoying, don’t worry, they’re perfectly normal.
Spotting. Seeing small spots of blood on your panties in and around the fifth week is normal. It might be implantation bleeding. Having said that, the amount of blood should not be larger than a few drops and shouldn’t last more than a couple of days. If the bleeding is excessive or lasts longer, contact your doctor immediately.
Mood swings. While some pregnant women get through pregnancy without significant mood swings, for some it might feel like an endless PMS. Mood swings are perfectly normal during pregnancy and are mainly caused by shifts in hormone levels. When the mood swings hit, fight them off with activities which have a calming effect on you.

Embryo at 5 Weeks

In its fifth week of development, the embryo is slowly becoming a fetus. It is roughly the size of an apple seed and has a head and a tail. The baby is starting to form vital organs (stomach, lungs, heart) and bodily systems (circulatory, digestive, nervous). The heart is now made up of a pair of channels (heart tubes). Once they join together, the baby will have a proper, functioning heart. The neural tube, precursor to the spinal cord and the brain, is also starting to form around the fifth week.

At this point, unless there’s a strong reason for it, you won’t have your first ultrasound. That comes around the 8^th or 9^th week. Around that time, you will also have extensive blood and urine tests. Also, you will be able to see and hear your baby’s first heartbeats.

Closing Words

Despite the fact that pregnancy in the fifth week is still at an early stage, some big changes are happening on both sides. Moms to be are experiencing hormonal changes, while the babies are starting to grow vital organs and systems.

Now that you know all about the common 5 weeks pregnant symptoms, don’t be alarmed if you don’t experience any or all of them, which is also perfectly normal.

References:

http://americanpregnancy.org/while-pregnant/hcg-levels/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/signs-and-symptoms-pregnancy/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/vaginal-discharge-pregnant/
https://radiopaedia.org/articles/corpus-luteum
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/tiredness-sleep-pregnant/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/morning-sickness-nausea/
https://www.babycentre.co.uk/slideshow-baby-size
https://www.babycentre.co.uk/5-weeks-pregnant

Health

5 Natural Ways to Whiten Teeth

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 14, 2018 Last Edited: December 14, 2018

Arch

Take a look at a photo of just about any celebrity, and you’ll instantly notice their pearly white teeth. A gleaming smile is universally considered a very attractive feature so it’s only natural that so many people want it. But in order to get results similar to what you see with celebrities, you may need to visit a dental professional and receive special treatment (such as dental bonding). However, not everyone is willing to put in the time or the money to undergo such a procedure.

Similarly, you may not be convinced by the drugstore products advertised to produce such effects. But, that doesn’t mean you are out of options. As an alternative, you can attempt to use certain natural ways to whiten teeth. There are countless people out there who swear by these methods, and we will examine some of the more popular approaches.

What Causes Tooth Discoloration

Before we get to the ways you can whiten your teeth, we have to quickly explain what causes them to lose their shine in the first place. This is important because it will allow you to better understand what those methods are trying to accomplish and how.

There are, unfortunately, quite a few potential causes of tooth discoloration. A very common way for your teeth to darken is to stain them with food and beverages. This can also happen due to the buildup of plaque. Plaque is a sticky, soft film on your teeth, made up of countless bacteria. Those bacteria use the sugars from your food to create acids that compromise the tooth enamel.

This is another important point. Your teeth have four main components. Enamel is the one that is normally visible. It is what makes your teeth white, and that’s why it is important to protect it. Enamel is actually semitranslucent and when it erodes way, the tissue beneath it becomes more visible. This tissue is called dentin, and it is yellow, explaining why your teeth can assume this color.

Besides certain foods and plaque, there are many other reasons your teeth can get discolored. Some diseases can have this effect as can certain forms of treatment. For example, chemotherapy can do this. There are medications out there which can do the same, and a person’s genetics will also play a large role. Your teeth will also naturally lose some of their shine as you age.

Methods to Whiten Your Teeth

Now that you know what can cause your teeth to not look the way you want them to, we can examine some of the ways you can try to turn things around for the better.

Baking Soda

Baking soda (or sodium bicarbonate) is well-known for its teeth-whitening properties. It is an abrasive (a mild one), allowing it to scrub certain stains away. That is why you’ll often see it among the ingredients of toothpaste. A study actually compared brands of toothpaste which did and did not contain sodium bicarbonate and found that the former were better at removing tooth stains.

In addition, a study has also found that baking soda possesses antibacterial properties. Because we’ve explained what plaque is and how it affects your teeth, it’s clear how this is beneficial for their whiteness.

Having said all that, you can see that one of your options is to switch to a toothpaste with sodium bicarbonate. But, you can also make one yourself by mixing baking soda with some water. If you go for the DIY solution, make sure to continue using your regular toothpaste as well – the baking soda paste should be an added measure.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional technique meant to extract (or “pull”) toxins out of the body. To do it, you simply swish some oil around your mouth for around 20 minutes and then spit it out. It’s similar to how you would use mouthwash.

Its practitioners will claim it has numerous health benefits, but many of them remain unsupported. However, studies have pointed out that oil pulling can be effective against bacteria.

You can use different oils for this purpose, but coconut oil seems to be the most popular choice. It has a nice taste and, more importantly, studies like this one have shown it is effective at combating plaque. Sesame oil is another good choice – this study shows its effectiveness against Streptococcus mutans. This bacterium can significantly contribute to tooth decay, making oil pulling an effective tool in maintaining oral health.

The one downside is that the whitening effects still aren’t corroborated by research, although there is no shortage of people claiming they have experienced this outcome. But regardless of that, the effect oil pulling has on plaque and tooth decay means this technique can be a part of your overall effort to brighten up your smile.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is what you will find in many whitening products you can buy at the drugstore. It does the bleaching. But, you can also get and use it on its own. However, it is very important to pay close attention to the concentration. It’s best to only use a 1.5% or a 3% solution. If you can only find a stronger concentration, it’s a simple enough job to dilute it with water.

In addition to whitening teeth, hydrogen peroxide will also act as a disinfectant. This means that, aside from applying it directly to your teeth, you can also use it as a mouthwash. But, only use it sporadically to avoid irritation and immediately discontinue use if you notice anything out of the order.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has certain antibacterial properties and is a common folk remedy. Additionally, a study conducted on bovine teeth showed it also had a bleaching effect. This gives it potential as a whitening agent, but you need to limit how long your teeth are exposed to it or you risk damaging them.

Eating Habits

The last way to whiten your teeth is to actually stop them from getting stained in the first place. We already mentioned certain foods and drinks will do this to your teeth. Dark berries, sodas, red wine, and coffee are among the better-known examples. So, you can limit your intake of such ingredients and wash out your mouth immediately after consuming them. Also, steer clear of tobacco.

Conclusion

There are numerous things you can do to improve your smile, and one of them is to try some of the natural ways to whiten teeth mentioned here. Obviously, none of them will work instantly. But if combined with proper dental hygiene, you might have some glistening results in the future.

References:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10958-tooth-discoloration
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10518866
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6094783
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4382606/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18408265
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15849600
https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/disinfection-methods/chemical.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1785201/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25571718

Health

Why Am I Always Tired?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 14, 2018 Last Edited: December 14, 2018

John

Daytime fatigue is fairly common, even normal, if it happens on occasion. It’s our body’s natural reaction to physical or mental exhaustion. However, when it’s persistent, it might be a sign that something is wrong.

On its own, it can’t be used to make a clear conclusion about what might be wrong. The spectrum of possible causes is very broad, ranging from mild issues that can be fixed with a couple of lifestyle changes to severe health problems that require immediate attention.

Here are some of the most common causes of fatigue and possible solutions:

1. Poor Eating Habits

When it comes to lifestyle-related fatigue, poor diet is among the most common. The importance of our gut microbiota has been a hot topic within the scientific community for years now, and it’s known to serve a variety of crucial functions.

Considering the strong connection between the gut microbiome and the brain, it comes as no surprise that what we eat can have a very strong impact on a variety of mental functions, including the subjective perception of fatigue.

Of course, it’s not just our brain that recognizes chronic tiredness. Without proper nutrients, the body gets weak, the first result of which is fatigue.

There’s evidence that minimizing processed sugar and carbs can help alleviate the symptoms of fatigue. Make sure to maintain a balanced diet, and you might feel a lot more energetic throughout the day.

2. Lack of Exercise

Aside from your eating habits, the amount of physical activity correlates with fatigue. It’s been proven that people living a sedentary lifestyle are far more likely to complain of fatigue than those who exercise regularly.

Lack of exercise and fatigue perpetually build onto one another. In a study, the main reason that middle-aged adults gave for not exercising was tiredness.

This often results in more fatigue, and the only way of breaking the cycle is making yourself do at least some exercises for 30 minutes a day. It can be something as simple as walking, but it’s extremely important that you make it a part of your daily life.

3. Lack of Uninterrupted Sleep

While you’re sleeping, your body performs a variety of important functions, among which is the regulation of energy levels. Unfortunately, many people aren’t able to have high-quality sleep night in and night out, which negatively affects their everyday life.

Sleep deprivation is known to cause a variety of cognitive impairments and one of the leading causes of fatigue. If you’ve suffered from it for a long time, your fatigue might become chronic, so it might take a lot of time and effort before your energy levels can get back to normal.

What you should do is sleep for around seven hours on average every night. Moreover, you need to ensure that the sleep in uninterrupted, so your brain can perform all the necessary functions while you’re going through the stages of sleep.

4. Consistently High Stress Levels

In this day and age, living a stress-free life is impossible for most. Stress is a normal part of our everyday lives, as long as it’s within the normal range. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for many people, who are exposed to overwhelming stress on a daily basis.

There’s a very strong link between stress and chronic fatigue, as well as many other physical and mental issues. High levels of stress are extremely unhealthy, so they should be avoided as much as possible.

Thankfully, this isn’t as hard as many make it out to be. A plethora of studies have shown that mindfulness meditation can yield incredible improvements and a long-term reduction in everyday stress levels. Just 10 minutes of meditation every day can make a world of difference, so there’s a very high chance it can help you overcome stress-related fatigue.

5. Dehydration

Everyone loses water via sweat, urine, and many other ways. Proper hydration is essential to human health, and even mild dehydration can cause some serious issues, including chronic fatigue. Aside from this, it can severely impair both cognitive abilities and physical performance.

You might have heard about 8 glasses of water a day rule, but that doesn’t have to be the case. This is just an estimate, and the actual amount of water that your body needs may vary according to numerous factors, including your gender, size, climate, and activity level.

If you believe you’re even slightly dehydrated, try increasing your water intake and observe the results. Make sure to not replace water with sugary drinks, as this will only make the problems worse.

6. Health Issues

There’s a wide variety of health problems that have fatigue as one of the main causes. Some of them aren’t serious and can be easily treated, while others can be quite serious, or even deadly in rare cases.

A very common underlying cause of fatigue is hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid produces too little hormones, which results in fatigue.

Diabetes is another common cause of fatigue. Even though the connection isn’t well-understood, fatigue is one of the main symptoms that diabetics report.

The worst-case scenario is cancer-induced fatigue. It happens during both the disease progression and treatment, and almost nothing other than a full recovery can make it go away.

When fatigue is associated with health issues, it’s often not the only symptom. The first thing you should always do is visit your physician so that they can evaluate you and try to pinpoint the cause of your fatigue.

The Takeaway

What you see here are only some of the most common causes of dehydration. The full list is very long, so use this to think about the direction you might want to go towards getting rid of this issue.

It’s always a good idea to visit your GP before you make any major lifestyle changes. Assuming that more water or proteins will make the issue go away isn’t the best thing to do. Only do this once you’re sure that there are no medical issues behind your fatigue. Once you do it, take the advice as outlined above and you should notice some improvements with time.

References:

https://www.gutmicrobiotaforhealth.com/en/about-gut-microbiota-info/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4228144/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17176639
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/009174358690037X
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24154584
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Understanding-Sleep
https://psnet.ahrq.gov/primers/primer/37/Fatigue-Sleep-Deprivation-and-Patient-Safety
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26039963
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26143479
https://s3.amazonaws.com/academia.edu.documents/46988796/Effectiveness_of_a_Meditation-based_Stre20160703-30744-11u72g7.pdf?AWSAccessKeyId=AKIAIWOWYYGZ2Y53UL3A&Expires=1544722389&Signature=DbEwSgCbLxMlpRyl38ux%2FQe1P4M%3D&response-content-disposition=inline%3B%20filename%3DEffectiveness_of_a_meditation-based_stre.pdf
https://today.uconn.edu/2012/02/even-mild-dehydration-can-alter-mood/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/underactive-thyroid-hypothyroidism/
http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/37/1/73
https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/fatigue/what-is-cancer-related-fatigue.html

Health

What Is Distilled Water?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 13, 2018 Last Edited: December 14, 2018

Arch

Bottled water, distilled and filtered, has continued to become more and more popular in the US, building on its meteoric rise in the late 80s and 90s. As research keeps showing that tap water might cause health issues, due to the presence of chlorine, more and more people are considering healthier alternatives.

But is distilled water any better? You probably know that it’s recommended for topping off car batteries and diluting antifreeze for use in car radiators, but should you drink it? Let’s answer these questions, along with a few others.

What Is Distilled Water?

In essence, distilled water is water with pure H2O molecules that’s been boiled and collected from a distillation column, ridding it of contaminants and impurities. Due to their higher melting point, most contaminants get left behind while the water turns into steam. The steam rises up in the distillation column and is then collected and condensed to purified water. The small amounts of impurities that go up the column with the steam are collected at different stages according to their vapor pressure.

The distillation process is settled science and people have been making distilled water for thousands of years. Throughout that time, distilled water has had many different uses.

What Is It Used for Today?

A wide variety of industries use distilled water. It can also be used in everyday tasks for which H2O in its purest form is necessary. Let’s take a look at some of the most common uses of distilled water.

Automotive Industry

This is the most common field where distilled water is used regularly. First of all, it’s used for topping off lead acid batteries in cars and trucks. These batteries require water to function properly, and distilled water is perfect due to the absence of contaminants.

Also, it’s great for cooling off and cleaning engines. There are no compounds that would cause damage to the engine, so it’s completely safe to use in coolant systems. The same goes for washing the exterior of vehicles. Hard water often leads to the buildup of limescale, which is why purified water is recommended.

Medical Industry

In the medical industry, distilled water is also referred to as sterile water. The most common use is for cleaning the instruments in conjunction with autoclaves. Since there are no minerals that could get stuck on the surface of instruments, they’re perfectly safe to use once they’re sterilized.

Dentists also prefer distilled water to regular tap water. After a surgery, it’s much safer to rinse your mouth with distilled water, since there are no microbes that could cause infections, and it does a great job of helping you rinse out any bacteria.

House Chores

Distilled water can be found in most households. More than a few chores are easier with distilled water. Ironing is a perfect example. Distilled water protects irons from limescale and ensures that clothes are safe from damage.

Many people also clean leather furniture with a cloth damped in distilled water. It’s one of the best solvents for removing surface stains, so you can clean almost anything with it. Other uses include cleaning glass surfaces, cooking, and more.

What About Drinking?

The question of whether distilled water is safe to drink has caused some buzz within both the scientific community and general population. There are many arguments that can back up the assumption that it’s good for you, and just as many that it can cause you harm. So which is it?

Well, in general, drinking distilled water isn’t highly recommended for the long term. While it’s true that distilled water is much cleaner than tap water, it still comes with some risks.

A good side of the distillation process is that it removes contaminants. The bad side is that it removes healthy minerals as well. There are various minerals that are very beneficial to our health. Calcium promotes bone strength, Selenium can reduce oxidative stress, and there are other minerals that serve other important functions.

Distilled water contains none of them. Drinking it consistently may cause mineral deficiency if you’re not getting enough from your diet, which can have many adverse health effects.

Another issue is associated with VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Since many of them have a lower boiling point than water, they will evaporate before water. In a proper distillation column, they would get collected separately from the water, but that depends on individual distillers. As a result, VOCs might get collected with the purified H2O, thereby polluting it. VOCs can cause a variety of health issues, so they should be avoided as much as possible.

The main argument in favor of drinking distilled water is that you get most of the minerals you need from food. Even though this might be true, it would require you to be very careful about what you eat to make up for the minerals you’re losing by drinking distilled water.

If this doesn’t bother you, you can give it a try. You might not like its mildly different texture and taste, but no serious harm can be done to your body unless you drink it consistently and avoid tap or mineral water altogether.

Are There Health Benefits to It?

Yes. Drinking distilled water still has some health benefits. The first one is a reduced risk of water-borne diseases. Washing your hands with distilled water can be a great idea since it’s better at flushing away harmful microbes and contains almost none of them.

Another benefit has to do with the health and appearance of your skin and hair. Hard water can damage your hair and skin due to the high mineral concentration. Purified (soft) water, on the other hand, could help your skin and hair regain their vitality.

Lastly, distilled water removes many risks associated with chlorinated water, with higher cancer risk among the most severe. Distilled water doesn’t contain any chlorine, for which it gets a lot of safety points.

The Final Word

Similar to filtered and spring water, distilled water can be a great alternative to tap water in some cases. As you can see, it serves many useful purposes and has a number of benefits.

Even though there’s no explicit answer to the question of whether you should drink it or not, the consensus is that it might not be a good idea in the long run. Other types of bottled water, such as filtered, spring, and mineral, are generally more recommended.

References:

https://foodrevolution.org/blog/chlorine-water-harmful/
https://www.kinetico.co.uk/hard-and-soft-water-explained/hard-water-and-limescale
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1472933/
https://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/dwq/nutrientschap12.pdf
https://toxtown.nlm.nih.gov/chemicals-and-contaminants/volatile-organic-compounds-vocs
https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality
https://sites.psu.edu/siowfa15/2015/10/22/does-hard-water-cause-hair-loss/
https://academic.oup.com/jnci/article-abstract/85/10/817/1024456?redirectedFrom=fulltext

Brain Inflammation Seen in Fibromyalgia Patients for First Time

Written By: Alexandra Waller

Published Date: December 13, 2018 Last Edited: December 13, 2018

John

Brain inflammation has been an important topic of discussion and research, especially for patients with chronic pain. However, more recently brain inflammation has been seen and studied in fibromyalgia patients for the first time.

Research teams that led this study included: Daniel S. Albrecht, PhD, and Marco Loggia, PhD, with the Department of Radiology at Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School who combined efforts with Anton Forsberg, PhD, with the Department of Clinical Neuroscience at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden. With their combined efforts and examination, they were able to broaden the bounds of their studies. For the first time researchers can see widespread inflammation (glial cells) in the brains of fibromyalgia patients through the process of using two imaging techniques, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), or MR/PET scanning.

It is important for patients to have the validation they deserve, especially when certain symptoms or feelings may be dismissed in the medical world by doctors or other professionals. In fact, people are often led to believe that what they are experiencing is imaginary. However, by finding evidence of neurochemical changes in the brains of fibromyalgia patients, the bias or stigma that several of patients face may be reduced.

Please note I am not a doctor. Although this article has undergone extensive research, do not replace the following information with your doctor’s expertise or advice. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

What are glial cells?

Glial cells are the most abundant in the central nervous system. They surround the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. They support and protect the neurons. There are different types of glial cells found in the brain, including astrocytes, microglia and oligodendrocytes.

How does it work?

Screening and observing the activation of glial cells is an important process during the study and imaging of the brain in patients with chronic pain. MR/PET is a process that combines two processes together.

An MRI does not use radiation. It offers structural and functional details of tissues through the use of powerful magnets, radio waves, and a computer.

PET scans use specific dye containing radioactive tracers. These tracers collect in places where there is higher chemical activity, which means that it can be easier to discern certain conditions since they may demonstrate or have a higher level of chemical activity. The scan will demonstrate bright spots at the site of chemical activity. More specifically, it detects where the radiation is given off.

With the combined techniques of MR/PET scanning, researchers can document neuroinflammation in patients with chronic pain. More specifically, it can help detect whether or not fibromyalgia patients have activated glial cells as well, which will be further discussed in this article.

Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Study

The team at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) study conducted research in 2015 focusing on the activation of glial cells in patients with chronic pain. They successfully imaged neuroinflammation in the patients by using combined MR/PET scanning techniques. The team tested and hypothesized that fibromyalgia patients may have activated glial cells. They used a radiotracer that binds to the translocator protein (TSPO) within the study.

Karolinska Institutet Study

Similar to the previous study, the team at the Karolinska Institutet conducted a related approach. The research team investigated and observed the TSPO-binding PET tracer.

Both teams combined their studies and techniques within their study of fibromyalgia patients.

Results

Evidently, researchers have seen brain inflammation in fibromyalgia patients for the first time through the use of combined MR/PET techniques. Fibromyalgia patients who were reported to have higher levels of fatigue showed higher TSPO levels in the brain. More specifically, it was found in a specific region of the brain that is connected with emotional processing, called cingulate gyrus. Therefore, glial activity may be related to the region in association with fatigue. Because of the discovery of more inflammation in fibromyalgia patients than the healthy controls, it can lead to future discoveries and more studies.

These findings are just the beginning. This research and evidence can help verify that the pain fibromyalgia patients face is not imaginary and what you are feeling and experiencing is real. Of course, you do not need someone to tell you this, but it can help broaden the scientific and medical field. This can lead to future studies and more observations. Because there is not a cure or treatment for fibromyalgia, studies focusing on brain inflammation in fibromyalgia patients may help find a way to relieve certain symptoms.

Health

Natural Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids: Prevention and Treatment

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 13, 2018 Last Edited: December 13, 2018

Arch

When certain veins in a person’s anus and lower rectum become swollen, the resulting medical condition is known as hemorrhoids. Another, less common, name for it is piles. Although experts have not been able to pinpoint the exact cause of this condition, there are several factors which can play a role in it by increasing the pressure on the aforementioned veins.

These factors include chronic constipation or diarrhea, sitting on the toilet for extended periods of time, and obesity. Pregnancy also increases the odds of developing hemorrhoids because of the pressure created by the weight of the baby. Additionally, the risk of hemorrhoids increases as you age because the tissue supporting those veins can weaken.

Depending on where they develop, hemorrhoids can either be internal or external. They do not always cause noticeable symptoms but when they do, those symptoms can include bleeding, itching, swelling, and pain.

While many people may not feel comfortable discussing this issue, it is actually very common. Certain sources claim that around 50% of all people will have some problems with hemorrhoids by the time they turn 50.

When hemorrhoids appear, the accompanying symptoms will usually be present for a few days. Doctors can treat this condition in numerous ways. There are procedures involving special rubber bands, lasers, as well as more serious surgical options. But before it gets to any of this, there are a number of natural home remedies for hemorrhoids you can try. If your symptoms are sufficiently mild, no other treatment may be needed.

Prevention

Before we get to specific remedies, it is important to quickly mention several things you can also do on your own that can actually help you prevent hemorrhoids in the first place, thereby eliminating the need for any treatment. In essence, it boils down to trying to make your stools soft and preventing constipation.

Naturally, it begins with what you eat. And here, we are looking at fiber. The recommendation is to get 25-30g of it each day, and many people don’t. So, you should try to slowly increase your fiber intake. We say slowly because you can otherwise experience cramping or have problems with gas.

Therefore, gradually incorporate an increasing amount of fiber-rich ingredients into your diet. For example, these can be whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. You have quite a few options in this regard so you shouldn’t have a problem finding ingredients you enjoy eating.

Liquids are the next step, as expected. To keep your stools soft, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.

You should also exercise regularly. The intensity should match your level of fitness, but even activities such as brisk walking can help. Exercise can be beneficial for bowel movements and help you lose weight, both of which can reduce the likelihood of hemorrhoids developing.

Also, wearing cotton underwear can help. It’s easy on the skin and can prevent irritation which can lead to hemorrhoids flaring up.

Finally, we’ll mention a few bathroom habits which can help in this regard. As mentioned before, try not to sit on the toilet for too long – this can put pressure on the veins in the rectal area.

Also, try not to strain when passing stool. Or at least, don’t strain excessively – so, you shouldn’t hold your breath and push as hard as you can. A technique that might help with this is raising your knees while on the toilet – simply put something like a small bench beneath your feet to make this easier.

As a final point, go to the bathroom the second you start to feel the urge. By waiting, your stool can become harder to pass.

Home Treatment

If you don’t manage to prevent hemorrhoids from appearing, the next step is to try these home remedies to relieve the pain and speed up recovery.

Sitz Baths

A sitz bath is simply a shallow bath for your buttocks and hips. In other words, you sit in warm water. You can use a regular bathtub for this and only fill it up partially or buy a special basin which goes over your toilet seat.

The bath should last between 10 and 20 minutes (the longer the better). Just remember to have more hot water handy to maintain the right temperature – warm but not so hot to cause discomfort. You should take these baths at least two or three times per day, particularly after bowel movements.

It’s possible you’ll feel dizzy when you stand up. This will pass, but you should be careful. Do not rub the area afterward to dry it – this can cause irritation. Pat it or use a hairdryer.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes. Research supports some of the purported beneficial effects and it is considered safe to use, but further study would be needed in order to provide definitive evidence. As such, there is no direct proof that it helps with hemorrhoids, but it has shown promise.

As long as you are not allergic to it, you should find it in gel form and apply directly to your hemorrhoids. Just be careful it’s pure aloe vera, without other ingredients.

Witch hazel

Once again, witch hazel is a plant with a good reputation but without enough scientific evidence to fully back those claims up. When applied to hemorrhoids, it may help reduce the associated itching, bleeding, and pain. Even the Mayo Clinic recommends it for this use so it is definitely worth a try.

Psyllium

We already mentioned that increasing your fiber intake is helpful in preventing the onset of hemorrhoids. But the benefits also apply even after this condition has appeared – fiber will make the symptoms less severe. This is where Psyllium comes in – it’s a natural supplement which can help your bowel movements.

Cold

Applying ice packs several times a day can help with the swelling and reduce the pain.

Cushions

Lastly, it’s obvious why sitting on hard surfaces can be problematic to anyone who’s suffering from this condition. A cushion will reduce existing swelling and play a part in stopping new hemorrhoids from forming.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids can be a minor issue or an incredibly painful condition. In some cases, you’ll have to visit a doctor. But before you make that trip, try some of the natural home remedies for hemorrhoids mentioned in this article – they may be enough. Prevention is also important and can help you avoid the problem altogether.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268
https://medlineplus.gov/hemorrhoids.html
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/increasing_fiber_intake/
https://nccih.nih.gov/health/aloevera
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20360280
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids/treatment
https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/hemorrhoids_and_what_to_do_about_them

Neurofeedback Procedure Relieves Chronic Pain in Fibro Patients

Written By: Alexandra Waller

Published Date: December 10, 2018 Last Edited: December 10, 2018

John

Neurofeedback is also known as electroencephalogram (EEG) biofeedback. It is a process that is based on electrical brain activity. It involves training the brain in which researchers can study how it functions through the use of electrodes that are applied to the scalp. The neurofeedback procedure can help relieve chronic pain in fibromyalgia patients by studying and regulating brain activity.

Please note I am not a doctor. Although this article has undergone extensive research, you should always consult with your doctor. Talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have about your condition. Do not replace the following information with your doctor’s advice.

Dealing with Chronic Pain

Before discussing how the neurofeedback procedure works, let’s look at chronic pain in fibromyalgia patients. Chronic pain is defined as persistent pain that can lasts from weeks to years. Fibromyalgia patients try to cope with the widespread chronic pain that is associated with the condition. Besides dealing with the chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia, patients may also have other symptoms, such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, depression, and more.

Dealing with chronic pain can be difficult for people living with fibromyalgia. However, there are options. You can practice coping strategies, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises. Another option is that you can try neurofeedback therapy.

Neurofeedback Procedure

How does it work?

Researchers do not know exactly how or why neurofeedback works. However, the procedure has been known to help with relaxation and pain relief.

In addition to extensive pain, fibromyalgia patients may also experience other conditions that can greatly impact their day-to-day lives, including chronic fatigue, mood disorders, and mental health issues. Neurofeedback can help relieve pain and possibly other conditions associated with fibromyalgia by focusing on the brain. The brain is where neuronal signals are processed and transferred, which is important to consider while exploring the topic of pain.

The neurofeedback procedure involves the process in which you receive feedback from your brain about what your mental state is like. With this information, you can determine what are pain related areas. Therefore, this can help change and train your brain as well as measure your brain activity in relation to your pain.

It may take time to observe and analyze your responses, but most sessions tend to last between 30 to 60 minutes. Make sure to talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the procedure. Although your therapist may suggest the neurofeedback procedure, it is always a good idea to discuss any new technique related to your health with your doctor.

Are there any side effects?

Fortunately, this procedure is considered as a safe method and it has no known side effects. However, this does not mean that this procedure is necessarily right for you. Before starting the procedure, make sure to discuss it with your doctor first.

Can I do it myself?

It can get expensive, but there may be commercial devices available. It can be available as a handheld device. Additionally, you may be able to connect it to the computer, which makes it accessible and easier to observe your responses. However, this option should be considered very carefully. Before doing it yourself you should be aware of the possibility of scams. Do not trust all manufacturers. This is why it is important to discuss all options with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend you should at least begin the procedure with a professional, especially because learning about the method can take time.

Pros and Cons

In conclusion, the neurofeedback procedure can be a great option to relieve pain in fibromyalgia patients. Let’s look at some pros and cons associated with the procedure:

Pros

If neurofeedback is successful, you may be able to train your brain to cope with certain symptoms, including chronic pain.
You may be able to eventually learn to complete the procedure at home and on your own.
It may decrease the amount of medication needed for certain symptoms.
It is a noninvasive treatment.
There are no known side effects or risks.

Cons

The procedure can take time.
It can be expensive.
It’s not for everyone.

There is a lot of information regarding the neurofeedback procedure, which can get a bit overwhelming. However, your doctor is there to help you. Make sure to contact your doctor to address any of your questions or concerns. Because neurofeedback involves your health, you should consider this procedure carefully. It is important to reach out to a health care professional who you trust before starting the neurofeedback procedure.

Health

How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Urine?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 7, 2018 Last Edited: December 6, 2018

Arch

Did you know that urine tests are more efficient than breath analyzers when it comes to detecting blood alcohol levels? There are situations where urine testing is the better option.

But how long does alcohol stay in urine? What can this testing method reveal about your activities? Let’s take a look at alcohol metabolization and urine tests.

Alcohol Absorption 101

When you consume alcohol, it gets absorbed fairly quickly. Around 20% of it enters your blood vessels from the stomach, while the remaining 80% is absorbed through the small intestine. Your small intestine has a rich blood supply, and your blood alcohol levels spike when the alcohol reaches this organ.

Once it’s in your blood, the alcohol starts getting metabolized. It begins exerting its depressant effect on your brain and decreases your reaction time. Your judgment may get impaired as soon as you consume a drink, and the physical symptoms of intoxication can be immediately obvious.

The higher the alcohol content in your drink, the faster the absorption will be. Additionally, alcohol gets absorbed at a higher rate when you drink on an empty stomach.

Blood Alcohol Levels and BAC

The mass concentration (mass per volume) of alcohol in your bloodstream is expressed in mg/dL, and we call this number your blood alcohol level. Your blood alcohol levels show the amount of alcohol you have in a deciliter of blood. BAC stands for blood alcohol concentration, and it is expressed in percentage of volume concentration (percent of alcohol in the bloodstream).

Your BAC primarily depends on the amount of alcohol you consume. However, there are other factors involved. The amount of alcohol in your bloodstream will depend on your:

Weight and Height

If you have a large body type, one drink won’t affect your blood alcohol levels too much. The more blood you have, the lower your BAC will be (for the same amount of drinks).

Amount of Body Fat

Fatty tissue doesn’t absorb alcohol well. If you have a higher proportion of body fat, your BAC will be higher because the alcohol remains in the blood instead of getting absorbed in tissue.

Gender

If a woman and a man consume the same amount of alcohol, her BAC is likely to be higher because of her smaller body size and higher percentage of fatty tissue.

Recent Meals

Consuming alcohol on an empty stomach will result in higher BAC.

Rate of Metabolization

The rate of alcohol metabolization is around 15 mg/dL per hour. If you and a friend have similar blood alcohol levels, the time it takes for the alcohol to metabolize in your bodies will be about equal.

As the alcohol metabolizes in your body, your BAC will decrease. You might feel sudden lethargy or sleepiness. Waking up with a hangover means the metabolization process isn’t finished yet.

BAC Testing with Breathalyzers and Urine Tests

Many people find themselves in situations where their BAC gets tested by authority figures. The most obvious example is the breathalyzer that’s put in your face if you’re stopped on suspicion of drunk driving. Most state laws define BAC of .08 (0.08%) and above as driving under the influence.

Breath tests can detect alcohol consumed in the last 24 hours. What about urine tests? How long does alcohol stay in urine?

The answer depends on the complexity of the test.

Simpler urine tests can detect alcohol consumed 12-48 hours before you took the test.
There are more complex tests that can detect alcohol consumed up to a week prior to testing.

It’s clear that urine analysis is more efficient than breathalyzers. So why isn’t it more widespread?

Appropriate and Inappropriate Uses of Urine Alcohol Tests

Traffic police do not use this method during routine screening. After all, there is nothing wrong with consuming alcohol in your free time more than a day before you sit behind the wheel. If your blood alcohol levels are so low that they have no impact on your driving, there’s no reason to test for them.

But there are situations where it’s important to know whether a person has consumed alcohol over the previous week. Some examples include:

Liver transplant patients who have to abstain from alcohol.
Participants in DUI programs and probation programs.
Court cases – for example, parents with alcohol abuse issues who want to keep seeing their children after a divorce.
People whose professions require them to abstain from alcohol, such as some soldiers on active duty.
Former alcoholics who are partaking in recovery programs.

Teenagers are also occasionally subjected to urine tests by their parents. The reason behind this measure is obvious: parents want to make sure their teens avoid unsafe drinking. It’s easy to purchase drug test kits that you can use at home, and many parents think this is a useful way to approach the matter of underage drinking.

However, experts warn against this option. They say it can erode the trust between parent and child and create feelings of resentment. This kind of testing is ineffective when it comes to detecting sporadic alcohol and drug use. A negative test might give the parent a false sense of security, while a false positive test may lead to harmful conflict.

Is Urine Alcohol Testing Reliable?

There are a few reasons why using breathalyzers is more reliable in everyday situations. Urine samples are easy to tamper with. Some people add water to the samples or use somebody else’s urine. You can even purchase clean urine samples online and keep them at hand for this kind of testing.

Even when there are no problems with the sample, the test may give false negatives. But the opposite problem is present as well. Some medications, such as pollen meds, can cause the test to falsely show the presence of alcohol in the urine.

The more sensitive a test is, the likelier it is to return erroneous results. It’s important to keep this in mind when making legal decisions.

A Final Word

In short, a urine test can detect alcohol from two days back. Particularly sensitive versions of the test can cover 5-7 days, but this leaves a lot of room for error. Breath tests can be more practical to perform.

Surprisingly, a hair test is one of the most accurate and reliable forms of alcohol testing. It shows results from up to six months back, but they aren’t entirely foolproof.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-alcohol-stay-in-your-system#How%20is%20alcohol%20metabolized?
https://youngmenshealthsite.org/askus/alcohol-in-bloodstream/
https://www.mydr.com.au/addictions/blood-alcohol-concentration-bac
https://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/wellness-connection/alcohol-education/alcohol-metabolism.html
https://www.dmv.org/automotive-law/dui.php
https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/how-long-in-system
https://www.verywellmind.com/widely-used-etg-test-for-alcohol-unreliable-80212
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4920965/
https://www.addiction-ssa.org/images/uploads/CohenR_Hair_Testing_8_Nov_13.pdf

Here’s Why Your Heart Skipped a Beat: the 5 Most Common Heart Palpitation Causes

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 7, 2018 Last Edited: December 6, 2018

Arch

If you’ve had heart palpitations before, you know that they’re overwhelming and upsetting. But familiarizing yourself with this experience makes it easier to deal with it when it happens. Let’s take a look at the most common heart palpitation causes and the best ways to treat them.

What Do Heart Palpitations Feel Like?

Here are some of the ways people describe heart palpitations:

Feeling like your heart skipped a beat, or started beating irregularly.
Rapid, fluttery heartbeats.
A strong, pounding sensation in your chest.
Becoming overly aware of your own heartbeat.

Sometimes this sensation can spread to your throat, neck, and chest.

You might be wondering if palpitations are the same thing as an arrhythmia. An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat that comes from problems with the electrical impulses that control your cardiac movements. When you have an arrhythmia, you may experience palpitations, along with some other symptoms that include sweating and chest pain. But sometimes there are no symptoms, and it may go undetected for years.

Simply put, an arrhythmia is a medical condition that means your heart isn’t beating regularly. Palpitations are the sensation of an irregular heartbeat. While there’s a lot of overlap, the two terms aren’t equivalent.

What Should You Do When You Have Heart Palpitations?

In many cases, heart palpitations are harmless. You don’t usually need to seek medical attention just because you experienced them. However, they could be an indicator that something is wrong.

To be sure of what’s going on, you should pay attention to other symptoms. For example, chest pain might indicate you’re having a serious health problem. Changes in your pulse are worth taking note of as well.

It’s also crucial to observe the pattern of your palpitations. Do you experience them often, and are they connected to any of your regular activities? Do the palpitations happen suddenly or do they fade in and out?

Potential Causes and treatments

Here are a few of the most common heart palpitation causes, as well as the best ways to treat each one.

1. Heart Conditions

This isn’t the most common cause of palpitations, but it’s the one you’re likeliest to worry about. The truth is that heart attacks, heart valve problems, and heart muscle problems can all cause arrhythmias. As we said above, arrhythmias have a variety of symptoms. These can include palpitations, irregular breathing, chills, and pain around your breastbone.

Treatment

Your doctors will use a variety of tests to determine your usual heart rate. You might have to wear a heart monitor for a full day, or even a few weeks. Once they’ve determined the exact nature of your cardiac issue, they may prescribe medications or lifestyle changes. Heart surgery is a possibility as well, but non-invasive treatments are more likely.

2. Smoking, Alcohol, and Coffee

Experts have linked smoking with heart palpitations. Smoking increases your heart rate for a variety of reasons, and it can also cause long-term cardiac issues. If you’re a heavy smoker, you might be having palpitations because of the lowered concentrations of oxygen in your blood. Coffee and caffeinated soda are frequent causes of palpitation as well.

Drinking can increase your risk of a condition called atrial fibrillation, which comes with episodes of arrhythmia. Associated symptoms include exhaustion and frequent dizziness.

Treatment

If you want to quit an addictive habit that is causing you discomfort, it’s not a good idea to quit cold turkey. Instead, you should do it gradually and have a detailed plan in mind. Make some lifestyle changes and stay out of situations where you might be tempted to return to your habit. Community support and professional help are both excellent options.

3. Hormone Changes

Women going through menopause often experience heart palpitations. Palpitations may also be the result of taking hormone medication. In some cases, they come from hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Treatment

A simple blood test can be enough to tell your doctors whether there’s a hormone imbalance in your body. Since thyroid gland issues can have dangerous consequences, it’s important to get yourself tested as soon as possible. In the case of menopause, your doctor might be able to give you advice for easing the symptoms of your hormonal issues.

4. Anxiety

If you’re under a lot of stress, your body starts reacting to threats that aren’t present. Specifically, it releases hormones that affect your heart rate and cause some other changes in your body. A panic attack can feel similar to a heart attack, as both come with excessive sweating, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. It’s not always easy to tell what you are experiencing, and you should call 911 if you think it might be a heart attack.

Anxiety may be a response to a stressful event, or it can be the result of a stressful lifestyle. But in many cases, anxiety is a mental health issue. In fact, anxiety disorders are the most widespread type of mental illness in the US.

Treatment

There are many different ways to treat anxiety, and you can do some of the treatments at home. You should consult your doctor about your situation, and they may suggest relaxation techniques, some form of therapy, or medications. All of these options can be useful even if your anxiety is a short-term condition caused by a particular life event.

5. Exercise

While keeping to a daily exercise regime is healthy, it may have a negative effect on your heartbeat.

Treatment

You should start with making sure you’re not dehydrated. Then go for less intense exercise and more breaks. Note that palpitations after exercise can be a danger sign, especially if you’re pregnant or diabetic. If it keeps happening after you’ve altered your exercise regime, talk to a doctor.

A Final Word

Many children experience heart palpitations and shrug the matter off. But as you get older, the experience may become a source of distress. You might feel anxious about what the palpitations might mean for your cardiac health. As your anxiety grows, you become more aware of the symptoms, and the irregular heartbeats get more pronounced because of your emotional state.

Learning about some of the most common heart palpitation causes is the first step toward managing this experience. If you can keep calm and methodical when you experience palpitations, they may become rarer or less intense. More importantly, this is the only way to spot whether your palpitations come from a serious medical problem.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/what-causes-heart-palpitations#1
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-arrhythmia/symptoms-causes/syc-20350668
https://www.fairview.org/patient-education/90275
https://www.livestrong.com/article/281911-palpitations-smoking/
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/alcohol-may-cause-irregular-heartbeat/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/heart-health-specialist/hormones-heart-palpitations.aspx
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323454.php
https://www.livestrong.com/article/232760-heart-palpitations-during-exercise/

How to Get Bigger Boobs Naturally with 3 Easy Tips

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 6, 2018 Last Edited: March 5, 2019

The internet is filled with different ways to make your boobs bigger. But breast size is determined primarily by someone’s genes and hormones followed by lifestyle and body weight. And there is no magic pill to get a bigger cup size.

However, there are a few things you can do to make your breasts appear bigger. They may not have the same effect as cosmetic surgery. But they may be an option for anyone looking for a subtle increase and are reluctant to do surgery.

Check out these 3 tips to increase your bust size. The boost may be subtle. But that may be all you need.

1. Get Moving

First, get moving. Exercises that focus on the shoulders, back, and pectorals can help improve muscle tone underneath the breasts.

Arm Circles

Arm circles are exactly what they sound like. You can use hand weights, cans, or small water bottle to add extra resistance to this exercise.

Extend your arms out to a “T” horizontally to your sides
Keep your arms at shoulder level and slowly make circles forward for 1 minute
Next, make slow circles backward for 1 minute
Now pulse your arms up and down in small, concentrated movements for 1 minute
Repeat once or twice

Wall Presses

Wall presses are modified versions of push-ups that you may be familiar with. Use a wall or any other upright, stable source to lean on.

First, stand in front of the wall, placing your palms against the surface at approximately chest level
Slowly lower your body until your front nearly touches the surface, keep your back straight
Push up with your arms and return to your start position
Repeat 10-15 times per rep

Arm Presses

Arm presses are similar to arm circles. But instead of circles to the side of your body, you’ll pull your arms into the front of the body. For more advanced movements, try it with hand weights or resistance bands.

Start from a sitting or standing position, arms extended in front of you with palms together
Open your arms and pull them back until your back arches
Bring your arms back together to the front
Repeat the movement for approximately 1-minute

Horizontal Chest Press

Like the arm press, this exercise involves pulling your arms to the front of your body. This is another exercise that works out your pectoral muscles.

First, start off with your arms in front of you with arms bent at 90-degree angles
Keeping your arms bent, open them as far as you can
Bring your arms back together
Repeat the motion for at least 1 minute

Prayer Pose

The prayer pose is another exercise that works out the pectoral muscles. It’s like the horizontal chest press, except instead of bringing them together you pull them into your chest.

Extend your arms in front of your body, keep them level with your shoulders
Press your palms together for 30 seconds
Next, press your palms together and bend your elbows at 90-degrees
Pull your arms towards your chest in a prayer pose and hold for 10-seconds
Release
Repeat this movement 15 times

All the exercises mentioned may be performed without extra equipment or even going to a gym. But if you want an added challenge, you can incorporate resistance bands or small arm weights.

2. Eat the Right Foods

Another way to increase your bust size is to eat the right foods. Are these miracle foods? No. But some foods may increase your breast size.

However, keep in mind that many of these foods are rich in fats. They are healthy fats, but they will cause you to gain a little weight. And gaining weight is another way to get bigger boobs naturally.

This helps with breast size because they are primarily made up of muscle tissue and fat. The idea is that increasing the fat ratio in the body may also help gain a cup size.

Keep in mind, however, that you can’t choose where you may gain weight. But if that’s a risk you’re willing to take, check out what type of foods to focus on below.

Healthy Oils and Fats

The trick is to eat healthy fats and oils. This isn’t a license to eat a bunch of junk food. It is still a relatively healthy diet, but it may also give you extra inches on other parts of your body. Pay special attention to fats and oils rich in omegas.

Things to eat:

Avocados
Olives
Nuts
Seeds
Oily fish

Soy Products

In addition, you may want to incorporate soy products into your daily diet. Soybeans contain a lot of phytoestrogens. This chemical compound mimics the natural estrogen in the body.

Why do you need this chemical? Because estrogen is the hormone that makes breasts plump when a woman is on her menstrual cycle.

Things to eat:

Edamame
Soybeans
Soy milk
Fake meat products

Fruits and Veggies

Gaining a bigger bust line isn’t all fats and oils, though. You still need fruits and vegetables to balance out your diet. Fortunately, there are a few that may also help with cup size.

Focus on plants that have a lot of phytoestrogens. Like soy products, there are a few that contain the chemical that mimics estrogenic properties. They may not be as concentrated as soy products, but there are a few that have the chemical in lower levels.

Things to eat:

Beets
Carrots
Cherries
Yams

Herbs

Lastly, add some fresh herbs to your meals. Some herbs contain phytoestrogen. So it’s a good idea to add them where you can. In addition, some herbs may also help retrain healthy breast tissues. You can toss them into your cooking, or check out a supplement if you prefer.

Things to eat:

Chasteberry
Fenugreek
Licorice root
Wild yam

3. Stand Up Straight

How is your posture? Correct posture can give you an instant lift in the bust area. Your mother wasn’t wrong when she told you to stop slouching when you were a little girl.

What Is Posture?

Posture is the position you hold your body when you are standing, sitting, or lying down. When you have good posture, your body is perfectly aligned to support against gravity. Posture isn’t something that you may consciously think about, but years of poor posture may have it in the forefront of your mind.

Good posture can elongate the body and give the illusion of bigger and perkier breasts.

How to Correct Poor Posture

First, correcting posture is a constant awareness of how you’re holding your body. It won’t change overnight, but with practice, you may eventually have good posture without thinking about it.

Standing Posture

Keep your weight evenly distributed
Stand on the balls of your feet
Your knees should be slightly bent and your feet shoulder-width apart
Pull your shoulders back
Tuck in your tummy
Keep your head level whenever possible with your earlobes in line with your shoulders

Final Thought

You have some options if you’re wondering how to get bigger boobs naturally. You can exercise to boost the muscles under the bust. This may give the illusion of more lift.

Alternatively, you may also want to alter your diet and incorporate additional healthy fats and oils. However, you can’t choose where you gain weight. So you run the risk of adding more inches to other parts of your body if you go this route.

Lastly, you can also correct your posture. Hunched shoulders may hide a lot of the breasts’ natural fullness. Used in combination with exercise or a specific diet, these tips may be all you need to augment your breasts naturally.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/how-to-increase-breast-size-naturally
https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/these-foods-could-enhance-your-breast-size.html
https://www.livestrong.com/article/139816-foods-that-make-your-breasts-larger/
https://www.livestrong.com/article/227376-how-to-increase-breast-size-with-diet/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501779/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320630.php
https://acatoday.org/content/posture-power-how-to-correct-your-body-alignment

Does Setting the Clock Back Make Fibromyalgia Worse?

Written By: Alexandra Waller

Published Date: December 6, 2018 Last Edited: December 5, 2018

John

The time changing can make it difficult for people to adjust to a new schedule. However, for fibromyalgia patients ending daylight savings can make fibromyalgia worse. Setting the clock back or forward can make fibromyalgia worse because it can mess with an individual’s chronic fatigue and pain. Altering the clock by an hour can have a definite impact on your sleep. A lack of sleep not only makes you tired and moody, but it can also have terrible effects, such as pain, lack of focus, depression, and more.

It is already difficult for several people with fibromyalgia to get a good night’s rest. The time change can disrupt sleep patterns and schedules. So, does setting the clock back make fibromyalgia worse? It definitely can, especially if you already have trouble sleeping.

Negative Effects from Setting the Clock Back

As previously mentioned, there can be several negative effects for fibromyalgia patients by setting the clock back. Here we will examine a list of how the time change, and more specifically, daylight savings can make fibromyalgia worse for patients.

Depression

A study shows how daylight saving time can impact one’s mental health. Although “technically” we receive an extra hour when we turn our clocks back, it does not necessarily mean it is a good thing. The days become shorter and it gets dark earlier. In fact, according to CNN the darkness that comes earlier in the day can be difficult to handle and lead to depression. There are several negative effects of daylight saving time, yet it can be even harder for people who have fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia patients may already be dealing with depression, and the added challenge of time change can be difficult.

Fatigue

Another negative effect is fatigue. Although it may seem contradictory, the extra hour can actually make you tired and drowsy. You may feel tired because the time change disrupts your sleep schedule. Several people who participate in online discussions criticize the negative effects of the time change, including depression and fatigue. For people who have sleep insomnia or have chronic fatigue the time change can have a real negative impact. Whether it is an hour lost or gained, the time change can make our bodies and minds have a hard time adjusting, which can lead to fatigue.

Other Effects

In addition to fatigue, you may experience mood swings and a lack of focus. Sleep can also have an impact on the level of a patient’s pain. In fact, a reduced amount of sleep disturbances can lead to reduced symptoms of pain in fibromyalgia patients.

Tips for Dealing with the Time Change

Although it can be difficult to adjust to the time change, there are some ways to cope with the change. The following is a list of tips and suggestions:

Schedule

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule so that your body can have the opportunity to adjust. When it gets close to having to turn back the clock, you should prepare. Instead of going to sleep at the same time as you usually do, go to bed about fifteen minutes before your usual time about a week before the time changes. Every day you can slowly progress to twenty minutes, thirty minutes, and so on until the time change.

Focus on Yourself

Try to focus on yourself and your needs. It can often be difficult to set aside time for yourself and focus on your own priorities, especially with everything else that is going on in your life. Try to stay calm and keep your stress levels to a minimum. During the time change you should be aware that you may not be getting enough rest or attention. So, perhaps you shouldn’t take on too much whether it is at work or your social life.

Morning Routine

In order to adjust to the time change more effectively, you can make a planned morning routine. You should create your own individual morning routine. Try waking up at the same time everyday. You can set your lamp on a timer so you are waking up to the light. If you have time, you can exercise in the morning. Exercise can consist of something as simple as a short walk in the morning light.

Night Routine

Try to go to bed at the same time every night. Maintain a relaxing sleeping environment by keeping your room dark, quiet, and cool. Maybe read before bed instead of going on your cell phone or social media. Take a warm bath or light a candle.

In conclusion…

Sleep can be difficult for people living with fibromyalgia because of several different reasons. Fibromyalgia can disrupt your sleep patterns based on pain and other reasons. The time changing can make things worse, but there are ways to cope.

Health

What Causes Sleep Paralysis and What You Can Do About It

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 6, 2018 Last Edited: December 6, 2018

Arch

Some people wake up from sleep unable to move. This phenomenon is called sleep paralysis. And it can be terrifying if it happens to you.

But what is it exactly? Folklore used to explain it as evil spirits pinning you to the bed. However, science has a different explanation for it.

So, keep reading if you’ve ever been curious about sleep paralysis. Or if you want to know what you can do about it yourself. And understanding it may make it less terrifying.

What Is Sleep Paralysis?

If you’ve woken up from a sound sleep only to find out that your body won’t move, it can be a terrifying experience. Some people who experience it can’t speak too. They’re rendered immobile and helpless on the bed.

What causes sleep paralysis? Scientists believe they have a perfectly rational explanation for this occurrence. And despite the popular belief, it has nothing to do with supernatural beings.

Sleep paralysis typically happens when someone wakes up before REM sleep is finished. Because muscles are essentially switched “off” during rapid eye movement (REM) a person may have vivid dreams but not able to move. This may be considered a safety measure so you don’t physically act out what happens in your dreams.

If that same person wakes up before the body is done with REM, the muscles haven’t switched “on”. This means that even though the person seems awake with eyes open, the body hasn’t caught up yet.

However, another study suggests that sleep paralysis can occur at 3 separate times during sleep:

Soon after falling asleep
In the middle of sleep
Right before someone wakes up

According to the study, sleep paralysis can happen at any time during the sleep cycle. And it may not be limited to REM cycles.

Causes

There is a variety of scenarios that may cause sleep paralysis. But doctors can’t pinpoint exactly what makes a person more predisposed than others. Some causes may include:

Sleep deprivation
Sleep disorders like sleep apnea
Medications
Narcolepsy
Irregular sleep patterns
Sleeping on the back
Youth, between the ages of 10 and 25
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Panic disorder
Genetics

In addition, one study revealed that people who suffer from anxiety and depression are more likely to experience sleep paralysis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of sleep paralysis may vary from person to person. But generally, they only last a few seconds. At worst, it may last a few minutes.

The main symptom of sleep paralysis is a person’s complete awareness of their surrounding but being unable to move or talk during the episode. Additional symptoms may include:

Difficulty breathing, as if the chest is restricted
Eye movement
Feeling terrified or frightened
Sweating
Paranoia
Muscle pains
Headaches

Even environmental sounds that you would normally tune out become significant and may add to the terror. Hallucinations are also a common thread when people have sleep paralysis. There are 3 categories of sleep paralysis-induced hallucinations:

Intruder

First, intruder hallucinations are relatively common. This is the sense that a threatening or evil presence is in the room.

Vestibular-Motor

Other people experience sensations like flying, floating, or moving. This category also includes out-of-body experiences that some people report during paralysis.

Incubus

Another common and terrifying hallucination is the feeling that someone or thing is pressing down on the body. It may feel like choking. Or the chest may feel restricted as if someone is sitting on it.

Happy Hallucinations

All hallucinations aren’t terrifying ones, though. There are a few people who reported feeling euphoric during sleep paralysis. These positive feelings link to people who are more likely to experience vestibular-motor hallucinations.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Sleep paralysis doesn’t normally come under medical diagnosis. However, if you experience the following symptoms, it may be time to talk to your doctor:

Difficulty or anxiety falling asleep
Paralysis happens regularly
Feeling unusually sleepy during the day
Falling asleep suddenly or without warning

Treatment Options

Unfortunately, there are no specific treatments for dealing with sleep paralysis. But managing some of the potential triggers in your life may reduce the potential for sleep paralysis. This includes managing stress levels, observing good sleep habits, and following a regular sleeping schedule.

Some additional tips to get a better night’s sleep include:

Consistent wake-time and bedtime -Try to keep it during holidays and weekends, too
Make your sleep environment comfortable – Invest in comfy pillows or a new bed set
Reduce light exposure – Use night lights instead of keeping lights on at night
Keep the bedroom just for sleeping – Resist the urge to do anything but sleep in your bedroom
Get out into the sunlight when you’re awake – Try to get some sun when you’re awake
Avoid late afternoon naps – Try not to nap after 3pm and keep it brief
Don’t fall asleep with the lights or television on – Keep it dark when you fall asleep
Avoid heavy meals before bedtime – Stop eating up to a couple of hours before bed
Incorporate calming activities – Listen to music or read in the evenings to calm your mind
Try not to drink caffeine or alcohol at night – Abstain if you can for a good night’s sleep
Exercise during the day – Physical activity can make it easier to fall asleep at night
Put away electronics at least 1 hour before bed – Keep cell phones and tablets away when it’s time for bed

Addressing the underlying causes of bad sleep like depression, anxiety or stress may also help reduce the risk of sleep paralysis.

Final Thought

Sleep paralysis can be frightening. But keeping track of what causes sleep paralysis may be the key. Scientists may not know exactly what causes sleep paralysis. Furthermore, there are plenty of links between certain behaviors and sleep paralysis. Minimizing the potential triggers may help.

Lastly, there’s nothing you can do about genetic disposition. However, you can reduce stress levels and make sure that you follow a regular sleep schedule. And if sleep paralysis starts to impact your daily life, it may be time to seek medical help. They may be able to find underlying causes such as a sleep disorder that you didn’t know you had.

References:

https://www.livescience.com/50876-sleep-paralysis.html
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-paralysis/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/295039.php
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321569.php
https://www.livescience.com/49818-sleep-paralysis-genetic-basis.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156892/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1365-2869.2006.00512.x
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1087079217301120
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/A:1025373412722

Health

Is Chlamydia Curable? Take a Closer Look at the Most Common STD in the US

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 5, 2018 Last Edited: December 6, 2018

Arch

With more than 1.7 million newly reported cases in 2017 alone, chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States. This condition is often asymptomatic in the early stages, which is why many cases are undiagnosed until much later. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to a number of health complications, including infections, prostate problems, as well as infertility in women.

Caused by a bacterium of the same name, chlamydia is spread through oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Adults are most at risk, especially if they practice unprotected sex or have intercourse with multiple partners. A history of prior STDs is also a risk factor. Newborns can also acquire chlamydia from their mothers during delivery and experience serious health problems as a result of the infection.

Is Chlamydia Curable?

Thankfully, chlamydia is easily curable as long as you take the medication prescribed by your doctor. As with all other STDs, it is important to start treatment as soon as you contract the bacterium that causes the infection. That way, the medication will have a better chance of working and you’ll manage to avoid complications.

The symptoms of chlamydia usually occur within the first three weeks of contact. These include pain during urination and intercourse, as well as constant abdominal pain. Both men and women may experience genital discharge and burning and swelling in the genital area. In women, a chlamydia infection may also result in painful periods and bleeding between periods.

You should visit your doctor as soon as you notice any of these symptoms. However, many people experience no symptoms when they contract chlamydia, so they may not know they have it until it has already advanced. To ensure that the infection is diagnosed on time and reduce the risk of complications, the CDC recommends that sexually active women and men get tested for chlamydia at least once a year.

How Is Chlamydia Treated?

Chlamydia is typically treated with antibiotics.

Your doctor may give you a single 1g dose of azithromycin or prescribe 100mg of doxycycline. If for some reason you can’t take either of these two antibiotics, your doctor may prescribe one of the alternative medications. These include erythromycin, levofloxacin, or ofloxacin.

If you develop a chlamydia infection during pregnancy, the treatment may be different. Some of the standard medications like doxycycline aren’t deemed safe for pregnant women as they can potentially harm the developing child, especially when taken during the second and third trimesters.

Chlamydia infections during pregnancy are usually treated with azithromycin, erythromycin, or the widely used amoxicillin. Although they may cause some side effects like diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and rashes, they occur very rarely. In addition, none of the possible side effects can affect the developing child.

Antibiotics can also be used to treat chlamydia infections in children, as well as HIV-positive patients. Although they can cure the infection, it is important to note that antibiotics cannot cure any related complications that may have occurred before you started your treatment.

How Long Does the Treatment Last?

Treatment for chlamydia typically lasts between one and seven days. This will depend on how well-equipped your immune system is to fight the infection, as well as the medication your doctor prescribes.

Azithromycin is intended for short-term usage, so your treatment will only last for a day. Your doctor will prescribe a single 1g dose of this antibiotic to be taken in a day, usually in two or four tablets. What’s more, the doctor may administer the medication personally to ensure that you don’t exceed the recommended dosage. This also helps avoid any side effects, which is particularly important for pregnant women, children, as well as patients who suffer from other conditions that affect the immune system.

All other antibiotics used to treat chlamydia are used for seven days. Erythromycin is taken orally four times a day, ofloxacin and doxycycline are taken twice a day, while levofloxacin is taken once daily.

To ensure optimal results, you need to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor for the duration of your prescription. If everything goes according to plan and the symptoms are gone by the end of the treatment, you should go for a follow-up test in about three months to make sure that the infection is no longer in your system. However, if you are still experiencing symptoms after you have taken a full course of antibiotics, you should consult with your doctor about an alternative treatment.

Can Chlamydia Come Back After Treatment?

Like many other bacterial infections, chlamydia can come back even after you have completed your treatment. This most often happens if you fail to take your medication as instructed by your doctor. Also, if you continue practicing unprotected sex and/or your partner has an undiagnosed chlamydia infection, you may get re-exposed to the bacterium and develop another infection. The same can happen if during intercourse you use an object that was contaminated with chlamydia and wasn’t cleaned properly.

According to a 2000 study, genital chlamydia infections recur in almost 30% of cases. The results suggest that people who have a history of STDs are more likely to develop repeated infections.

Doctors previously believed that recurring infections were the result of either an unsuitable treatment or a re-exposure to the bacterium that causes chlamydia. However, the results of a recently published animal study show that there might be another reason. Namely, chlamydia may have evolved so much that it is now able to hide in your gut and reemerge periodically like the herpes simplex virus. To reduce the risk of recurrence, the authors recommend that patients be retested two months after treatment.

The Final Word

Despite how common it is, not only is chlamydia curable but it’s also preventable.

To reduce your risk of infection, you should practice safe sex and use protection even when having oral sex. Avoid having intercourse with multiple partners and sharing objects used during intercourse. If you’re sexually active, make sure to test yourself for chlamydia and other STDs at least once a year. Regular testing will allow you to catch any infection early and start treatment on time.

If you have recently recovered from chlamydia, you should visit your doctor for a follow-up test. Do so about three months after your initial diagnosis. Recurrence rates tend to be high with STDs. Follow-up test will help make sure that your treatment was successful and that the chlamydia-causing bacterium has been eliminated from your system.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/docs/factsheets/std-trends-508.pdf
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chlamydia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355349
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlamydia_trachomatis
https://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/guide/chlamydia
https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/std/tg2015/chlamydia.htm
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/infections-prevention-chlamydia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amoxicillin
http://www.aidsmap.com/Chlamydia/page/1044825/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6840846
https://www.healthline.com/health/azithromycin-oral-tablet
https://sti.bmj.com/content/76/3/169
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29329181

How to Manage Heart Failure During the Holidays

Written By: John

Published Date: December 5, 2018 Last Edited: December 5, 2018

John

If you’re one of the roughly 5.7 million Americans diagnosed with heart failure–like I am–the Holidays can be especially rough. In fact, a study suggests that while hospitalizations for heart failure decline on the holidays themselves, they spike after major holidays such as Christmas. There are a number of reasons for this, according to the study. One is that people may be less likely to seek treatment on the holidays themselves because they don’t think their doctor is working, or they don’t want to “ruin” everybody else’s holiday. Waiting to seek treatment when you’re feeling symptoms can cause them to get worse, which could be another reason that hospitalizations spike in the days immediately following a holiday. With the stress of traveling, eating lots of high-salt foods, and the lack of exercise while celebrating can all lead to weight gain and fluid retention, causing heart failure symptoms to get worse, requiring a trip to the hospital.

So what are we to do to make sure we get through the holidays without going into the hospital? I’ve come up with 5 things that are the most important for me.

1. Make Sure You Refill Your Medications

This is the biggest one because if you don’t have your medications, you can’t take them. For me, those medications are:

Entresto (sacubitril-valsartan) 24-26 mg tablet twice per day
Carvedilol 12.5 mg tablet twice per day
Spironolactone 25 mg tablet once per day
Furosemide 40 mg tablet once per day

Sometime before December 15, at the latest, I look at mine and make sure I have enough to get me through the first week of the year. I will also double check my pharmacy’s hours during the holidays. Most importantly, I make sure that there are actually refills left on the prescription, because if there aren’t any, it can be hard to get a hold of your doctor to call the pharmacy and let them know to refill them.

This last part is so important. Calling my doctor’s answering service is typically a nightmare. Once I discovered I was out of furosemide on a Sunday morning, which is the day I set up all of my pills for the week in my AM/PM pill case. I called the answering service and got a woman who sounded like she smoked three packs of day and tortured kittens in her day job.

“Doctor’s Office”

“Yes, I’m a patient of Dr. ____ and I need a refill on one of prescriptions.”

“Doctor Who?”

I said it again.

“Spell it”

I spelled it.

“No.”

“No what?”

“I don’t have that doctor, sir.”

“Is this [name of clinic] Heart?”

“Yes.”

“Well, who is on call? I just need someone to call me to get my prescription refilled.”

“What doctor?”

“I’m asking you! Whichever cardiologist is on call is fine. I just need to speak with them about a refill.”

“What refill?”

“FOR MY HEART. I NEED HEART MEDICATION BECAUSE I HAVE HEART FAILURE…” and I may have cursed but I was seeing red.

“Sir I don’t appreciate your language sir.”

I had to pull it together because clearly my blood pressure was going up and that’s the last thing I wanted, I only wanted to talk to the on-call cardiologist to get a refill.

“Can you just read me the list of doctors?”

“That’s confidential.”

This went on and I yelled at her to just have someone call me and she made me say my phone number 18 times. Someone finally did call, and I got my meds, but please, take it from me, you don’t want to deal with this ever, but especially during the Holidays.

Which brings me to my next item.

2. Avoid Stress (and De-stress as Much as Possible)

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of things that cause stress during the holidays:

Travel
Hosting family
Making sure everyone has got presents
Worrying about paying for presents
Cooking for a large group of people
Making the house look full of holiday cheer
Terrible holiday songs
People trying to discuss politics
Being someone who doesn’t celebrate
Office Holiday parties
Year-end work deadlines
Bad weather
Ungrateful children
Rude guests
Finding a seat in church on Christmas Day

As I said this list is not exhaustive. You may have things on your list of stressors that I left off of mine. The point is, this time of year is extremely stressful. The American Psychological Association has some great resources on managing difficult family conversations, dealing with financial stress and the pressure of gift giving.

Some of the things I like to do are to first, I’m not afraid to let people know that, “Hey, I have heart failure, and so I may be a little limited in what I can do;” and second, I like to sneak away and do a five minute guided meditation using an app on my iPhone. There are a bunch out there and I highly recommend it. I also have a therapist to help me manage my mental health, which is something I struggled with even before I developed heart failure.

3. Eat Well

One of the things that make the holidays special is the food. Christmas cookies, holiday feasts, hams, pies, cake. Some of these can be full of fat and salt, which I try to minimize as much as possible. So I try (and let’s be real, I don’t always succeed at this) to make sure I’m sticking to my prescribed diet. This can be tricky if you have catered office parties, or if you’re not hosting your own event because you’re not in control of what is being cooked and served. So do you’re best here, and don’t over-do it as best you can.

4. Holiday Parties

One of the big changes I made after I was diagnosed is that I quit drinking alcohol. While I wasn’t an alcoholic, I did enjoy a good party now and again. One of the things that can be awkward, is your at a holiday party and someone asks you, “Hey, do you want to a cocktail/beer/glass of wine?” and then you say “No thanks, how about just a diet soda?” and then they’re all like, “Wait you don’t drink? How come?” And then you have to decide how much information you want to disclose about your illness, etc, or be awkward and say like, “It’s none of your business pal!”

So what I do is make sure I’m always holding a beverage with bubbles in it. Ginger ale, Diet Coke, La Croix. People really do see you holding a drink and they don’t question what is or isn’t in it. It can help you avoid awkward conversations.

Between this and watching what you eat the holiday party, you’ll be in good shape.

5. Know Your Limits

We have heart failure. When it comes right down to it, our job is to take care of ourselves and stay out of the hospital. We have limits on what we can and shouldn’t eat, how much weight we can lift, what kind of exercise we should or shouldn’t do. Own that and don’t be afraid to speak up. If you feel guilty about not being able to do as much, try speaking to someone about it, and try not to let it ruin your holiday.

But just about the worst idea I can think of is spending Christmas or the first few days of the new year in a hospital bed. So let’s try to stay out of one this year.

Further Reading:

Holiday Healthy Eating Guide – American Heart Association
Holiday Stress Resource Center – American Psychological Association
Hospitalizations for heart failure spike after major holidays – New York Post

How to Remove Blackheads: Discover the 5 Best Home Remedies

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 4, 2018 Last Edited: December 4, 2018

Arch

A blackhead is a common type of acne that occurs when the opening of a hair follicle (i.e. a pore) gets clogged. Unlike whiteheads which have a completely closed surface, blackheads have a small opening that allows the air to get in. This, in turn, causes the oil that’s trapped inside the follicle to oxidize and turn black, thus giving blackheads their characteristic color.

Like all acne, blackheads are particularly common among teens due to a combination of heightened hormonal activity and an increased production of sebum. Many teens choose to squeeze blackheads, but experts advise against it. For one, blackheads contain bacteria which can damage the pore walls and affect the adjacent tissue when you squeeze. Squeezing can also leave your skin scarred and damaged.

Rather than squeezing blackheads and potentially damaging your skin, there are some tried and true home remedies that can help you achieve the desired results without side effects. Read on to learn how to remove blackheads safely at home.

1. Lemon and Honey

Many websites recommend using baking soda to remove blackheads, but that might not be the best idea. Although baking soda is known for its antibacterial effect and skin exfoliating properties, it can very easily dry out your whole skin and not just the pores affected by the blackheads. Citric acid is a much safer alternative that unclogs your pores and makes your skin smoother.

You’ll find plenty of citric acid in lemons. Combine that with the strong antibacterial effect of honey, and you get an excellent at-home treatment for blackheads that will also brighten and exfoliate your skin.

To prepare this remedy, you will need a tablespoon each of raw honey, lemon juice, and sugar. Mix all three ingredients and then gently rub them on the area of your skin that’s affected by blackheads. Leave the mask on for about 15 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water. Use this mask once a day until you notice that your skin has cleared up.

2. Fenugreek

Although fenugreek has been cultivated for centuries in parts of Africa and Asia, it was fairly unknown in America until very recently. Also known as Greek hay, this potent annual herb has numerous benefits that cover a variety of health aspects – from digestive problems and inflammation to breast milk production and libido.

Fenugreek also has many skin benefits, including the scientifically proven ability to clear both whiteheads and blackheads from the skin. It is also a powerful antioxidant with strong anti-inflammatory properties.

To prepare your fenugreek home treatment for blackheads, you will need a cup of fresh fenugreek leaves and water. Alternatively, you can use fenugreek seeds instead of the leaves. Simply grind fenugreek with water until they form a smooth paste and then apply the paste to the area of the skin affected by blackheads. Leave it on for about 10 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water and apply moisturizer to prevent your skin from drying out. Repeat the treatment once a week.

3. Aloe Vera

In recent years, aloe vera has become an essential ingredient in many skincare products on the market. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, seeing as this unique herb has a seemingly endless list of proven skin benefits. Not only does it soothe your skin, cleanse your pores, and remove acne (including blackheads) but it also helps keep sebum production under control, thus preventing future outbreaks.

To enjoy the full benefits of aloe vera for your skin, you need to know how to extract fresh gel from the plant. Take one leaf of the plant and remove the upper part. Lay the leaf horizontally on a cutting board and carefully cut through the middle where you’ll find the fresh aloe gel.

Once you’ve extracted the gel into a container, apply it gently to your whole face and not just the area affected by blackheads. Wait for 10 minutes before you rinse your face with warm water. Aloe vera is suitable for all skin types and doesn’t have any known adverse effects, which makes it great for everyday use. Even after you’ve successfully removed acne, you can continue using fresh aloe vera gel to keep your skin healthy.

4. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is another potent ingredient with numerous health benefits. It contains lauric acid, a strong antimicrobial agent that destroys acne-causing bacteria. Several studies have also found that topical coconut oil is an effective treatment against certain types of eczema and that it has an impressive moisturizing effect in people with dry skin.

You can use coconut oil directly from the bottle as there’s no need to prepare any masks or pastes before applying it to your skin. Just take a few drops of virgin coconut oil, apply it to the affected area of the skin, and gently massage it into your skin. There’s also no need to rinse it as your skin will quickly absorb it.

Coconut oil is best applied in the evening, just before you go to bed. Keep in mind that it should only be used for dry and combined skin. If your skin is already producing enough sebum, the extra moisture from the oil may be too much. Your pores could thus get clogged, which could make your skin problems even worse.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Like coconut oil, apple cider vinegar is another versatile ingredient with a seemingly endless list of proven health benefits. Many of them stem from its strong antimicrobial effect, which allows it to destroy even some of the most dangerous bacteria like Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. It will also help with numerous skin issues, including clogged pores and blackheads.

To start using apple cider vinegar for your skin, you only need to put a few drops on a cotton ball and then gently apply it to your face. Wait until it dries and then rinse your face with warm water.

Due to its many skin benefits, apple cider vinegar is suitable for all skin types. You can use it every day until your skin clears up. After that, you can use it a few times a month to prevent blackheads from reemerging.

The Final Word

These are some of the safest ways how to remove blackheads. No matter which of these remedies you opt for, you will need to be patient as it may take a week or two for the results to start showing.

If after a few weeks of regular use blackheads still keep popping up, you should visit your dermatologist. They will likely be able to extract your blackheads on the spot using professional tools. In addition, they may recommend a topical cream and/or treatments to prevent further outbreaks.

References:

Health

Say Goodbye to Bad Breath: Learn How to Get Rid of Tonsil Stones

Written By: Arch

Published Date: December 4, 2018 Last Edited: December 4, 2018

Arch

If you’re experiencing bad breath coupled with an unusual, metallic taste in your mouth, you may have tonsil stones. Although this problem is rarely talked about – likely due to the embarrassing symptoms that it causes – it is not that uncommon. According to research, between 6 and 10 percent of people develop tonsil stones each year, most of them young adults who have recently suffered from tonsillitis.

Tonsil stones are generally not dangerous, but they can be very unpleasant. If your tonsil stones are giving you trouble, you may be able to remove them yourself without having to go to the doctor. Before we explain how to get rid of tonsil stones at home, let’s look into their main causes and symptoms.

What Are Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones are hard formations located on your tonsils. Also known as tonsilloliths, they occur when dead cells, food debris, and other particles found in your mouth become trapped on the tonsils. Over time, all these particles will harden and form concretions. These concretions are either white or yellow, and they’re usually so small that most people don’t even notice they have them on their tonsils.

Undiagnosed and/or untreated tonsil stones don’t normally cause major health complications. However, if you fail to address the problem on time, your tonsils may swell and develop a very unpleasant smell. That’s because your tonsils help your body fight infections by trapping bacteria, viruses, and other threats that enter through your mouth and then teaching your immune system how to properly respond to them. If you have tonsil stones, these bacteria can settle in your tonsils and cause odor as a result.

In addition to bad breath and swelling, common symptoms of tonsil stones also include a sore throat and trouble swallowing. Many patients also experience a persistent cough, while in some cases ear pain may also occur. The intensity of the symptoms will depend on the size of your tonsil stones. As a rule, small stones tend to be asymptomatic, whereas large tonsil stones almost always cause noticeable symptoms.

Why Might You Want to Remove Tonsil Stones?

Although tonsil stones are fairly harmless, they tend to give out a very unpleasant smell. According to a 2014 study, about 3 percent of all cases of halitosis (i.e. bad breath) are caused by tonsil stones. No matter how good your oral hygiene routine, brushing your teeth two to three times a day and using mouthwashes is often not enough to eliminate the bad breath.

In addition, if your tonsil stones are larger than usual, they could cause a severe case of dysphagia (i.e. trouble swallowing). If untreated, this problem could lead to serious complications, ranging from malnutrition and dehydration to aspiration pneumonia. In children, particularly severe cases of dysphagia could potentially halt development, both physical and emotional.

Removing tonsil stones could help get rid of these unpleasant symptoms and prevent any unwanted complications. If you’ve decided to remove your tonsil stones, you can either try and do it yourself or ask your doctor to recommend the best treatment option.

How to Get Rid of Tonsil Stones at Home

Many tonsil stones don’t cause any symptoms and thus don’t require any special treatment either. If you are experiencing one or more symptoms of tonsil stones, you might want to try removing them yourself. In this section, we’ll look into some tried and tested methods that allow you to do so.

Energetic Coughing

Most people discover they have tonsil stones after they cough up one of them. When that happens, you should try coughing energetically for a few minutes to see if that will help you loosen and remove the other stones, too. If that doesn’t seem to do the trick, you can try one of the other at-home methods.

Salt Water Gargling

Salt water gargling is a traditional home remedy that helps soothe your throat, reduce discomfort, and dislodge stuck tonsil stones. In addition, salt water may also alter the chemical environment in your mouth, which could help you get rid of the associated odor. Take an 8-ounce glass of warm water, dissolve about 1/2 teaspoon of salt in it, and gargle vigorously for a few minutes.

Use Your Tongue

If your tonsil stones are causing bad breath but aren’t painful to touch, you may try dislodging them using your tongue. Gargle your mouth with salt water for a few minutes to create a watery environment and then try to either swallow the stone or push it out with your tongue.

Use a Cotton Swab

Many tutorials on the internet recommend using a toothbrush to remove tonsil stones, but that might not be such a good idea. The tonsil tissue is very delicate and any accidental scratches could result in bleeding and infections. If you absolutely must use a physical object to try and try and remove tonsil stones, you should use a cotton swab.

Use a Water Flossing Device

Sometimes the force of water alone is enough to remove the particles that stick to the walls of your mouth, and the same rule applies to tonsil stones. Use a water flossing device in combination with a cotton swab to see if this will work for you. Make sure to only water floss for a few seconds at a time to avoid choking on water.

How to Get Rid of Tonsil Stones Surgically

If your tonsil stones are larger than normal, your doctor will likely recommend a surgical procedure. The most common options include the following:

Laser tonsil cryptolysis is the surgical removal of the crypts where tonsil stones are hidden. This particular surgery is performed with a laser and requires only local anesthesia.
Coblation cryptolysis uses radio waves to convert a salt solution (similar to saltwater) into ions. Those ions then travel to the tonsil crypt where they cut through tonsil stones.
Tonsillectomy involves the removal of one or both tonsils. This was once a fairly common procedure, but it isn’t performed as often anymore. Very few doctors would recommend the complete removal of tonsils just to get rid of tonsil stones. This is typically reserved for the most severe cases and only after all other options have been exhausted.

Since tonsil stones are caused by bacteria, your doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic to manage your symptoms. This is only a temporary solution, however, because it only halts the development of tonsil stones and doesn’t remove them.

A Final Thought

Tonsil stones are routinely treated and are usually nothing to worry about. If you start experiencing tonsil stones more frequently, proper hydration in combination with optimal oral hygiene should be enough to solve the problem. However, if even that doesn’t help, you should consult with your doctor in order to identify the cause of your tonsil problems and determine the best way to address it.

References:

http://www.ajnr.org/content/27/5/1157.2
https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/tonsils-and-adenoids/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25096359
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3649527/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18767323

Allergic Rhinitis and Fibromyalgia: What’s the Link?

Written By: Holly Case

Published Date: December 1, 2018 Last Edited: November 9, 2018

John

Sinus problems are more common among people with fibromyalgia. But sinus problems can have many causes. Nasal allergies are one of the biggest causes of sinus issues. These symptoms are often part of allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever.

There’s no question that allergic rhinitis can make you feel generally miserable. If you also have fibromyalgia, you’re probably dealing with discomforts associated with that as well. Are they completely separate conditions that have nothing to do with each other? Maybe not. Here’s what you need to know about the possible link between allergic rhinitis and fibromyalgia.

What is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is the more common name for what most people just call “allergies.” Another name for the condition is hay fever. When you come into contact with something you’re allergic to, your body has an immune reaction. Common causes of these allergies include the following:

Pollen
Pet dander
Mold
Dust
Food, on occasion

Allergies to pollen, in particular, are called hay fever. Pollen is produced by plants, including trees, grasses, and trees. These allergies are often seasonal based on when plants shed tiny particles. These tiny particles called pollen are spread through the air by wind. Hot, dry, and windy days are most likely to cause allergic symptoms. Rainy and cool days do not allow pollen to spread as easily.

What are the Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis involves the body’s attempt to fight off a substance it considers an invader. The symptoms of the body’s defense against allergens include the following discomforts:

Nasal congestion
Runny nose
Sneezing
Itchy eyes
Sinus pain or pressure

Most people with allergic rhinitis feel generally unwell and run down. The symptoms are similar to a cold, although fevers and coughs are not common.

How is Fibromyalgia Related to Allergic Rhinitis?

Though there isn’t much science to prove a direct link between fibromyalgia and allergic rhinitis, many people suffer from both conditions. And it’s very likely that there is some type of connection between the two because they both seem like types of the body’s defense mechanisms. One theory is that fibromyalgia includes changes to the nerves that produce more extreme reactions to otherwise normal sensations. The nerves may “misfire” and overreact to allergens or pain.

It is also possible that fibromyalgia causes muscle tightness, putting more pressure on the entire body, including the nasal passages. This pressure from tight muscles could possibly cause sinus pain. Many people with fibro unconsciously hold their bodies in such a way as to brace themselves against pain. But these tense postures can cause pain in other parts of the body. The whole body is more connected than many people realize.

How to Manage the Overlapping Symptoms

Even if fibromyalgia and allergic rhinitis have separate causes, many people suffer from both. Just one of the conditions can be uncomfortable and unpleasant on their own. But dealing with both at the same time can intensify your misery. However, you can take some concrete actions to try to get some relief. Try these tips for managing your discomfort if you have both allergic reactions and fibromyalgia:

Keep a log or diary of your symptoms. In your notes, keep track of factors like foods you ate, the weather, or where you were.
Try using non-medical interventions to limit allergic reactions, including the use of a sinus rinse (also called a neti pot.) This washes allergens out of your nasal passages, making an allergic rhinitis reaction less likely to occur.
Consider using heat to relieve pain. Heating pads can reduce pain in your body. But heating pads may also alleviate sinus pain if you place the heat over your sinuses.
Avoid drinks and foods that are more likely to cause inflammation, such as spicy or fried foods. Choose soothing, anti-inflammatory foods and drinks, like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and nuts.
Drink lots of pure, clean water. Many people are at least slightly dehydrated, which can increase your pain levels. Even drinking the appropriate amount of water can help you feel significantly better.
Consider adding vitamin supplements like magnesium or herbs like turmeric, which can reduce pain. Ask your doctor about supplements to make sure they don’t interact negatively with any medications you may be taking.

Health

The Truth About Blisters on the Lips: Are Cold Sores Herpes?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 30, 2018 Last Edited: November 30, 2018

Arch

Cold sores are tiny blisters that are most often found on the lips and around the mouth. Sometimes referred to as fever blisters, they can also appear elsewhere on your face – like your nose and cheeks – as well as on your fingers. These blisters typically fall off and heal on their own within seven to ten days.

Although their name may suggest otherwise, cold sores aren’t related to the common cold or fevers. Instead, they are the symptom of another virus that’s affecting about two-thirds of people under the age of 50 around the world.

Are Cold Sores Herpes-Related?

Herpes is a common name for all changes on the skin caused by the herpes simplex virus. This virus commonly appears in two forms: the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

While HSV-2 typically affects the genital area and is responsible for genital herpes outbreaks, HSV-1 usually affects the skin on the face. One of the most common symptoms of HSV-1 infections are cold sores. Herpes simplex type 1 is also known as oral herpes, seeing as it most often affects the skin around the mouth and the lips. Cold sores may also appear inside the mouth and even inside the nose.

How Do You Contract HSV-1?

HSV-1, the virus that causes cold sores, is very common. Most people pick it up when they are just a baby. In fact, more than 85% of them contract it from their mothers during delivery. The rest catch it when their eyes or mouth get in direct contact with a cold sore, when they are kissed by an adult with an active cold sore infection, or when someone touches a cold sore right before they touch the baby’s skin.

Whereas HSV-2 is transmitted almost exclusively through sexual contact, HSV-1 doesn’t have to be. Any direct oral-to-oral contact with an infected person or an oral contact with a skin surface with an active cold sore outbreak can be enough to contract HSV-1 as an adult. In rare cases, HSV-1 can also spread to the genital area through oral sex and cause a genital herpes outbreak.

As soon as your skin gets in contact with HSV-1, the virus travels through the skin and enters a group of nerve cells called ganglion that’s located in the autonomic nervous system. The virus will settle there and stay in your body for the rest of your life. It can either remain dormant without causing any symptoms or reactivate periodically to cause recurring cold sore outbreaks.

How Do Cold Sores Develop?

The development of cold sores starts when the herpes simplex virus type 1 that has been dormant in your body “decides” to reactivate. When that happens, the virus will travel through your nerves until it reaches the location of the original infection (usually the lips).

Once the virus reaches the original infection site, the area just below the surface of your skin will start tingling, burning, or itching. Within a day or two, a red bump will appear on the skin’s surface. Shortly thereafter, this bump will turn into a small, fluid-filled blister, i.e. a cold sore.

Over the next few days, this cold sore will slowly expand until it eventually bursts and dries up. After that, a yellow crust will appear in place of the blister. The crust will fall off and reveal a light-pink skin area that will quickly heal. With the healing process in full swing, the virus will go back to the ganglion where it will stay dormant until the next outbreak.

The entire life cycle of a cold sore – from formation to the start of the healing process – usually lasts no longer than 10 days. Cold sores often accompany other acute health conditions or stressful events that affect your immune system.

Are Cold Sores Contagious?

Cold sores are highly contagious, especially while you’re experiencing an active outbreak. Any skin-on-skin, oral-on-oral, or oral-on-genital contact with someone who has cold sores is likely to result in an infection. However, because an HSV-1 infection can be asymptomatic in many cases, you may even contract the virus from a person who doesn’t have cold sores or any other visible symptoms.

To avoid contracting HSV-1 or infecting others with it, you need to avoid any direct contact during the outbreak. The virus can easily be transmitted through shared glasses, cups, and utensils, which is why proper kitchen hygiene is of utmost importance. Personal hygiene is just as important, as touching a cold sore and then touching your nose, your mouth, or cuts on your skin can all lead to an infection.

It is particularly important to avoid touching your eyes after you have touched a cold sore. Otherwise, HSV-1 may cause an eye infection, which could lead to serious complications like glaucoma, corneal scarring and – in extreme cases – permanent vision loss.

How Are Cold Sores Treated?

Cold sores usually clear up on their own within a week or two and don’t require any treatment. Still, if you want to speed up the recovery process and reduce the accompanying pain, you may ask your doctor to prescribe some medication.

Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may recommend one of the following:

Over-the-counter or prescription antiviral creams
Cold sore patches to be worn over the cold sore until it heals
Antiviral tablets and pills for severe infections

Although a treatment isn’t normally required, you should see your doctor if you have another health condition that is negatively affecting your immune system. Furthermore, if the symptoms don’t clear up within 10 days, it is best to consult with your doctor. To ease the healing process, you can use ice packs to cool the affected area of the skin and take over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.

The Final Word

Because HSV-1 remains in your body even after you recover from a case of oral herpes, you may experience further cold sore outbreaks in the future. Recurring episodes are particularly common within a year of your first outbreak before your body has had a chance to build enough HSV-1 antibodies.

To reduce the risk of cold sore recurrences, you need to work with your doctor to identify the trigger of your previous outbreak and come up with effective ways to avoid it. For example, if the culprit is stress, you should find ways to reduce it. Similarly, if excessive exposure to sunlight seems to trigger outbreaks, you should use a combination of hats, beach umbrellas, sunscreen, and lip balms with SPF while outside.

If you’re having frequent cold sore outbreaks, you should go to your doctor. They might recommend lifestyle and dietary changes to fix the problem and prescribe an antiviral drug to help battle the ongoing oral herpes outbreak.

References:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold-sores/
http://www.who.int/news-room/detail/28-10-2015-globally-an-estimated-two-thirds-of-the-population-under-50-are-infected-with-herpes-simplex-virus-type-1
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/cold-sores.html
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(16)30362-X/fulltext
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganglion
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/herpes-simplex-eye-infections/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-sore/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371023
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/adult/infectious_diseases/Oral_Herpes_22,OralHerpes
https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/cold-sores.html

Health

What Is Sleep Apnea and What Symptoms Should You Look Out For?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 30, 2018 Last Edited: November 30, 2018

Arch

If you’re snoring very loudly throughout the night and waking up tired even after you’ve had eight hours of sleep, you may be suffering from sleep apnea. This is a very common sleep disorder that affects about 17% of men and 9% of women over the age of 50. Research shows that almost 30 million Americans are suffering from a common form of sleep apnea.

Although it can often go unnoticed, sleep apnea is a potentially very dangerous sleep disorder. If left untreated, it can cause a number of health complications that can sometimes have a fatal outcome. It is thus important to know what is sleep apnea and how to recognize its main symptoms.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by frequent involuntary breathing pauses that occur while you’re sleeping. This happens when the flow of air through the upper airway is blocked, due to either a physical problem or your brain’s inability to send the rest of your body a signal to breathe normally. These breathing pauses – also known as apnea events or apneas – typically last for at least 10 seconds.

The disorder got its name from the Greek word “apnos”, which means “not breathing”. As soon as your body realizes that you have stopped breathing, your brain will send out a signal that will trigger you to wake up and take a breath. After that, you’ll fall asleep again and may not even remember waking up the next morning.

Depending on the frequency of breathing interruptions, sleep apnea can take on the following forms:

Severe sleep apnea – 30 or more breathing interruptions per hour of sleep
Moderate sleep apnea – between 15 and 30 breathing pauses per hour of sleep
Mild sleep apnea – between 5 and 15 breathing cessations per hour of sleep

Experiencing fewer than five apnea events per hour is considered normal and isn’t a cause for alarm.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

There are three main causes of sleep apnea:

The blocking of the airway due to excessive relaxation of the muscles at the back of your throat
Restricted airflow due to physical obstructions (e.g. fat storages) around the airway
Your brain’s inability to transmit appropriate signals to your breathing muscles

Several factors can increase your risk of sleep apnea, including the following:

Obesity and Excess Weight – The formation of fat storages around the airway can obstruct your breathing and increase your risk of sleep apnea.
Family History – Up to 40% of people suffering from sleep apnea have one or more family members who have experienced the same condition.
Gender and Age – Sleep apnea is almost two times more common in men than women. Although it can affect people of all ages, it is more likely to occur after the age of 50.
Smoking and Drinking – Smoking increases fluid retention and inflammation in the airway, which is why smokers are more likely to develop sleep apnea than non-smokers. Alcohol relaxes your throat muscles, which could cause a blockage in the upper airway.
Other Conditions – Health conditions like chronic sinusitis and cardiovascular diseases, as well as birth defects like Pierre-Robin syndrome and Down syndrome, are all risk factors for sleep apnea.

In addition, having had a stroke or congestive heart failure can also increase your risk of sleep apnea.

What Types of Sleep Apnea Exist?

Depending on the cause, there are three types of sleep apnea:

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of the disorder. It occurs when your throat muscles relax and block the passage of air through the upper airway.
Central sleep apnea is a less common form of the disorder. It occurs when your brain repeatedly fails to send the proper signals to your body’s breathing muscles.
Complex sleep apnea is a combination of the two main types of the disorder. It usually starts as obstructive sleep apnea. When the usual breathing machine treatment doesn’t deliver the expected results, doctors may also diagnose the underlying presence of central sleep apnea.

What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include the following:

Loud chronic snoring with frequent breathing pauses followed by gasping for air
Exhaustion and daytime sleepiness despite getting about eight hours of sleep the night before
Waking up with headaches and dry mouth
Depression, irritability, and a lack of sex drive
Having trouble focusing and remembering things
Shortness of breath
Voice changes

People who suffer from sleep apnea may also experience insomnia. If you have this disorder, you may also find yourself getting up at night and going to the toilet more often than usual.

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, you should visit your doctor for a checkup. They will examine your symptoms to determine if you actually have sleep apnea. They may also recommend a home sleep test or hook you up to a polysomnography (PSG) machine overnight to verify their findings.

How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is by far the most effective treatment for sleep apnea currently available. While you sleep, you have to wear a mask attached to a machine that increases air pressure to the throat, thus preventing it from collapsing and blocking the airway.

If you only have mild or moderate sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend wearing a mouthguard at night to hold your jaw in the correct position while you’re asleep. In rare cases, your doctor might also recommend surgery.

To improve your chances of a full recovery, you will also have to make some major lifestyle changes (i.e. quitting smoking and drinking, losing weight, etc.) and treat any underlying medical condition that may be causing your symptoms.

The Final Word

Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders with about one in ten Americans experiencing it at some point in their lives. Although the symptoms might not be very severe, they shouldn’t be ignored.

Failure to treat sleep apnea can cause a number of health complications and increase your risk of several potentially life-threatening conditions. These include adult-onset asthma, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, and heart problems. To avoid them, you should visit your doctor as soon as you notice the first signs of sleep apnea.

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23589584
http://jcsm.aasm.org/ViewAbstract.aspx?pid=30736
https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/apnea
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/sleep-apnoea
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178633.php
https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/obstructive-sleep-apnea-causes
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20377631
https://www.everydayhealth.com/sleep-apnea/#symptoms
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1188764-overview
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001916.htm

Health

What Causes Gallstones and How Are They Treated?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 29, 2018 Last Edited: November 29, 2018

Arch

Gallstones are stone-like formations that occur in the gallbladder, a small organ located just below your liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a dark green liquid produced by the liver, which aids the digestion and absorption of fats. In some cases, this liquid can turn solid and form gallstones as a result.

Research shows that about one in five Americans will experience gallstones at some point in their lives. The condition is symptomless in about 60% of the cases, so most patients don’t even know that they have it. However, gallstones can often cause pain and may require treatment to avoid complications.

What Causes Gallstones?

Gallstones form when the bile stored in the gallbladder starts to crystallize. Scientists still don’t know exactly what causes gallstones, but they believe it has to do with an imbalance of the chemicals that make up the bile.

In normal conditions, 97% of gallbladder bile is made up of water. The remaining 3% consists of bile salts and inorganic salts (0.7% each), bile pigment (0.2%), cholesterol (0.07%), and a combination of fats and fatty acids.

The salts in the gallbladder bile help dissolve cholesterol and other fats to allow for easier absorption. However, when there is more cholesterol than can be dissolved by these salts, gallstones will form. These yellow cholesterol gallstones are the most common and account for about 80% of all cases.

Bilirubin is another chemical found in the bile. It is released when your liver destroys old red blood cells. Certain blood disorders can stimulate your liver to produce more bilirubin than it normally does, in which case the so-called pigment gallstones will form. These gallstones are typically black or dark brown and account for one in five cases of the condition.

The exact cause of these imbalances is unknown, though it is thought that genetics, weight issues, and insufficient nutrition are all contributing factors. Furthermore, if your gallbladder can’t empty properly, the bile stored inside of it may become too concentrated, thus leading to gallstone formation.

Who Is at Risk for Gallstones?

There are several factors that can put you at a higher risk for gallstones. They include diabetes, high triglyceride levels, rapid weight loss, and obesity. Genetics and age also play a major role, as does your ethnical background. According to research, gallstones are most common in Chile and Scandinavia, as well as among Native Americans.

Studies have also shown that women are up to two or three times more likely to develop gallstones than men. This has to do with the natural effects of two female hormones – estrogen and progesterone. The former increases the level of cholesterol in the bile, while the latter results in slow gallbladder emptying. Both these factors can contribute to the formation of gallstones.

For women, the risk is even higher if they are undergoing estrogen therapy or taking the combined pill. Pregnancy is also considered a risk factor. Namely, the more pregnancies you’ve had, the more likely you are to develop gallstones. Liver-related health problems, gastrointestinal disorders, and family history of the condition can increase the risk of developing gallstones in both men and women.

Women are most at risk by the age of 40. When they enter their fifties, their bodies start producing lower amounts of progesterone and estrogen. Consequently, their risk for gallstones decreases with age. Unlike them, men are up to 10 times more likely to develop gallstones after the age of 60.

What Are the Symptoms of Gallstones?

In most cases, gallstones are completely asymptomatic and don’t cause any complications. Symptoms occur when gallstones are too large to move through the passageway that connects the gallbladder and the small intestine. This creates a blockage and causes a sharp pain in the upper abdomen and upper back. The pain starts abruptly, without any warning signs, and can last for several hours.

Other common symptoms of gallstones include the following:

Nausea, burping, and vomiting
Bloating and gas
Indigestion and heartburn
Dark urine and pale stools

Any combination of these symptoms is usually referred to as biliary colic.

What Are the Complications of Untreated Gallstones?

Untreated gallstones can cause cholecystitis, a gallbladder infection that occurs when the duct that removes bile from the gallbladder is blocked. If you ignore the symptoms, the infection could become chronic with frequent bouts of pain.

Gallstones can also cause jaundice, a liver-related symptom that turns your skin or eyes yellowish. They can also cause a bile duct infection known as cholangitis, pancreas inflammation, as well as sepsis. In extreme cases, gallstones can also be the first symptom of gallbladder cancer.

How Are Gallstones Diagnosed?

To diagnose gallstones, your doctor will first check your eyes and your skin for signs of jaundice, which is caused by high levels of bilirubin in the bile. They may also perform an abdominal CT scan to inspect your liver, as well as an ultrasound to check for any visible signs of acute cholecystitis. In some cases, your doctor may also order a blood test to check your bilirubin and cholesterol levels.

Your doctor may inject a small amount a radioactive substance into your veins and track its progress through your liver and your gallbladder to see if there are any signs of infection or bile duct blockage. This procedure is called gallbladder radionuclide scan. They may also use ERCP, a combination of X-rays and cameras, to inspect your abdomen for problems and look for gallstones.

How Are Gallstones Treated?

Asymptomatic gallstones usually don’t require any treatment. They don’t cause any complications and are usually passed with little-to-no discomfort. To decrease the chance of further gallstone complications, your doctor may recommend dietary changes like an increased intake of fiber and a lower intake of fats.

If you’re experiencing pain and can’t pass the gallstone that’s causing it, your doctor may recommend a gallbladder or gallstone removal surgery. This is a routine procedure performed under general anesthesia that often doesn’t require you to stay overnight at the hospital.

Whereas surgery can solve your problem in a matter of days, medication may take years to eliminate your gallstones. For this reason, doctors rarely prescribe medication anymore. However, if for whatever reason your doctor deems that you can’t have surgery, they may prescribe a drug like Actigall or Urso.

The Final Word

No matter what causes gallstones for you, surgery is the only way to prevent their recurrence. There is very little risk involved with the surgery, which is why many doctors recommend it as the go-to treatment method. If you’re taking medication to get rid of gallstones, they may recur as soon as you stop treatment.

Most people can pass gallstones without even noticing them. However, gallstone problems can recur and become even more serious over time if you don’t adopt dietary and lifestyle changes to improve your gallbladder health.

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3343155/
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2000/0315/p1687.html
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gallstones/causes/
https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Medical_Physiology/Gastrointestinal_Physiology/Secretions#Biliary_System
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2196134
https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/qa/who-is-at-risk-for-gallstones
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3899548/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17103289
https://www.rush.edu/health-wellness/discover-health/hormones-you-age
https://www.everydayhealth.com/gallbladder/gallbladder-problems-are-you-at-risk.aspx
https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/gallstones
https://bpac.org.nz/BPJ/2014/June/gallstones.aspx
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000217.htm
https://www.healthline.com/health/gallstones
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003826.htm
http://ddc.musc.edu/public/procedures/ercp.html

Chronic Sinusitis and Fibromyalgia: Is There a Link?

Written By: Holly Case

Published Date: November 29, 2018 Last Edited: December 3, 2018

John

Nobody really knows for sure what causes fibromyalgia. Researchers are still trying to learn more about the condition every day. Though exact causes of fibro aren’t clear, we do know that certain health conditions and fibro often seem to go hand in hand. One of the most common conditions that seems to occur more frequently in fibromyalgia patients is chronic sinusitis. If life isn’t already uncomfortable enough with fibromyalgia, sinus pain and pressure can make you feel even more miserable. But they might not be as unrelated as they seem. Read on to see more about the connection between fibromyalgia and sinusitis.

What is Chronic Sinusitis?

Acute sinusitis is more than just allergies or a stuffy nose. It is actually an inflammation of your sinuses and nasal passages. Some of the most common symptoms of sinusitis include sinus pressure and pain, headaches (particularly by the eyes or the bridge of the nose), reduced sense of smell or taste, and nasal congestion or drainage. Other symptoms of sinusitis may include ear pain, sore throat, nausea, bad breath, or irritability.

Sinusitis is most often a short-term illness that comes after a cold. It usually goes away within a few weeks. But in some people, sinusitis can become a more chronic condition. Chronic sinusitis lasts longer, generally at least 12 weeks. Patients with chronic sinusitis will likely have tried several treatments, including antibiotics and prescription decongestants, without lasting relief.

According to the Mayo Clinic, chronic sinusitis has similar symptoms to acute sinusitis. But chronic sinusitis is also more likely to cause extreme fatigue. Other sinusitis symptoms are also more likely to be severe.

Risk Factors for Sinusitis

You may develop chronic sinusitis after having several episodes of acute sinusitis, each lasting four weeks or less. Some people are at greater risk of developing chronic sinusitis, especially those who have the following conditions:

Deviated (crooked) nasal septum
Regular exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke
Nasal polyps that block the sinuses
Asthma
Allergies such as hay fever
Respiratory tract infections
Complications of other illnesses, such as reflux/GERD, cystic fibrosis, or autoimmune diseases

What Does Sinusitis Have to Do with Fibromyalgia?

Because chronic sinusitis involves a state of inflammation, it’s possible for that inflammation to continue. Inflammatory processes tend to become chronic in general and may be systemic, affecting many parts of the body. The after-effects of sinusitis can be serious, including meningitis, skin infections (cellulitis), or bone infections (osteomyelitis). Although aren’t certain about what causes fibromyalgia, one common theory is that it occurs after physical trauma or infection.

Fibromyalgia is also possibly linked to a weakened immune system. A weakened immune system may also lower the threshold for illnesses and secondary infections, including chronic sinusitis. This may be a case where you can’t tell which illness came first because they are both linked.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome and Sinuses

Myofascial pain refers to chronic pain that involves the body’s trigger points. The term fascial refers to the muscles and the connective tissue that covers and supports them. Myofascial pain syndrome has several symptoms, including tenderness, limited range of motion, muscle weakness and stiffness, and sleep disturbances. It is very similar to the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Sinus problems are linked to chronic pain, though experts aren’t sure why. Inflammation seems to be at the root of both. A 2003 study found that people with chronic sinusitis also frequently have widespread physical pain and are ten times more likely to have non-allergy-related inflammation. This constant state of inflammation can lead to infected nasal passages as well as bodily pain. Dry mucous membranes can create the right environment for bacterial and yeast infections to develop.

How Can You Get Relief from Chronic Sinusitis?

Addressing the sinus problems may also provide relief from your fibro symptoms. A 2008 review of previous studies found that sinus surgery actually relieved chronic fatigue as well. Seek help from an ENT (ear, nose and throat) doctor if you think sinus problems are affecting you. Even if sinus surgery is not an option for you at this time, you may find that fixing your sinus issues may help your bodily pain and fatigue.

If you have had past problems with recurrent sinus infections, try the following methods to get relief:

Get serious about allergy-proofing your home. Replace carpets with wood, laminate, or tile floors. Run a HEPA filter to remove allergens from the air or frequently replace the air filters in your home.
Use nasal irrigation, such as a Neti Pot. This will flush allergens out of your nasal passages and reduce the risk of infection.
Add moisture to the air with a humidifier.
Avoid nasal irritants like cigarette smoke and home fragrance products, such as plug-in scented air fresheners.

Use nasal sprays as appropriate. Check with your doctor before regularly using steroid-based nasal sprays, however: long

Mold in the Home – Is It Making You Sick?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 29, 2018 Last Edited: November 28, 2018

Arch

Mold is a surprisingly common problem that most households might experience at some point. It can come in a few different forms and appear in any room at your home.

You’ve probably seen the orange film that forms on the drains, the white patches in the basement, and the black spots on the shower curtain. All of that is mold.

But how dangerous is it? To be perfectly honest, prolonged exposure to mold can be hazardous to your health. This is why you should have a better understanding of mold and how to deal with it.

What Is Household Mold?

Mold is a specific type of fungi that can grow almost anywhere as long as the favorable conditions are present. The places where mold thrives are moist and wet, usually without sufficient ventilation. Household mold often appears on bathroom tiles, walls and wallpapers, carpets, and ceilings.

The truth is that it’s almost impossible to avoid mold. It spreads via tiny airborne spores that are present all around us, both indoor and outdoor. The spores can attach to your clothes and shoes and spread around your house when you return home.

In addition, there are about thirty different types of mold that infest a home. Some of them pose a greater risk to your health than others. Based on the hazard level, the types of mold can be classified as follows:

Class A

This class includes fungi that form highly hazardous mold. Among them, black mold, or Stachybotrys, is generally considered the most troublesome. If black mold appears in a home, all the affected areas will need to be treated immediately. The same goes for all other class A molds.

Class B

Class B fungi can cause allergies after prolonged exposure. These fungi may not be as dangerous as class A, but it doesn’t mean they should be left untreated.

Class C

Class C molds don’t pose any danger to your health. There are no known allergic reactions to this type of fungi.

Mold in the Home – Is It Making You Sick?

Household mold can make you quite sick. But the symptoms and severity of mold allergies can vary.

The usual symptoms include eye and skin irritation, runny nose, and wheezing. People who are allergic to mold will experience more intensive symptoms. Luckily, extreme mold infections rarely occur in living spaces. Nevertheless, some individuals might be more susceptible to mold irritation than others.

Besides those who are allergic, people with chronic respiratory conditions and impaired immune system are also at a greater danger. In addition, those with eczema or similar skin problems may be more sensitive to mold.

The young ones and the elderly should be kept away from mold for their weaker immune system.

How to Treat Mold Allergies?

The best way to treat mold allergies is to rid your home of all mold and minimize exposure. However, this is sometimes easier said than done.

If you do get an allergic reaction to mold, over-the-counter medications that treat allergic and respiratory symptoms should help. There are more than a few nasal steroids and antihistamines that you can get without a prescription.

While the above would be sufficient for healthy adults, those who suffer from allergy-induced asthma and similar conditions should seek the doctor’s advice. In some cases, prescription medications and allergy shots may be needed to alleviate the symptoms.

What to do with Household Mold?

Most people don’t actually feel any symptoms from exposure to mold. But household mold needs to be treated as soon as it pops up. And you should know that getting rid of mold does take some time and effort.

These are some of the most common methods to remove mold from your home:

Professional Cleaning

Carpets and other highly absorbent furnishings would require professional cleaning. No matter how hard you scrub, it is very hard to remove carpet mold on your own. Sometimes it is even better to replace the mold-infested carpet.

Routine Cleanups

You should make mold removal part of your cleaning routine. Make sure to address all the moldy surfaces at least once a week. A solution of vinegar in water is the best household cleaning agent for mold removal. Mix one part water and three parts vinegar and thoroughly scrub all the affected areas.

Using Bleach

A bleach solution is quite effective at getting rid of mold. But you should use it only if you can’t throw away the moldy item or clean it otherwise. As you know, you wouldn’t want to touch bleach, so make sure to wear PVC gloves and safety glasses, and shoes as applicable. Also, the room has to be properly aired to avoid potential bleach irritation.

How to Prevent Mold?

The best way to deal with mold is to prevent it in the first place. Optimal humidity levels are the first line of defense so you should try to keep the humidity levels at home under 50%. It is advisable to invest in a dehumidifier or an AC to maintain the low humidity.

Proper ventilation also helps to keep mold away. If you install exhaust fans in the bathroom and the kitchen, they should keep the moisture to a minimum. General household maintenance is also beneficial.

Make sure there are no leaks in your plumbing, walls, and roof and establish a frequent cleaning routine. There are also mold inhibitors that can be added to paint when you decide to give your house a fresh coat.

These are only some of the things you can do to ensure mold doesn’t appear in your home. To get more information on mold prevention, check out the EPA guide on this topic.

Endnote

There is bound to be some mold in the home – is it making you sick enough to take action? The info contained in this article can help, but if it’s serious, you should seek immediate medical help and professional mold removal.

Nevertheless, mold needs to be taken seriously even if you don’t experience any allergy or infection symptoms. Remember, the spores will increase and spread further if left untreated.

References:

https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/pages/mould.aspx
https://www.moldbacteria.com/mold-types.html
http://thompsonwedeking.com/types-of-toxic-mold/
https://www.cdc.gov/mold/dampness_facts.htm
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-10/documents/moldguide12.pdf
https://www.webmd.com/women/mold-mildew#1

The Burning Question – Will Working out Keep Me from Getting Sick?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 28, 2018 Last Edited: November 29, 2018

John

Working out is considered a habit that can significantly improve your health. But you might still wonder will working out keep me from getting sick? The answer to this question is not as simple as it seems.

More than a few factors are at play when it comes to exercising and preventing illness. You should think about the type of exercise, your dietary habits, and the general state of your health.

On the bright side, studies have linked working out to sickness prevention. What’s more, regular exercise can be beneficial to a range of conditions – from the common cold to heart disease.

Working Out and Common Cold

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine indicates that you should be able to cut in half the chances of getting a cold if you exercise. And with that, the odds of developing a secondary infection.

On average, most adults catch a cold anywhere between two and five times a year. But taking up exercise and adopting other lifestyle changes like better dietary habits can markedly improve your resistance to the seasonal viruses. The reason for this might lie in the fact that working out improves your immune system and makes it more resilient to infections.

However, it would be wrong to assume that you need to commit yourself to a rigorous gym routine. The above mentioned study asked 1000 volunteers of different genders and ages about how often they were able to take at least a 20-minute intensive exercise that made them sweat.

It revealed some interesting findings after three months of research during the peak of cold season (autumn-winter). Those who exercised at least five times a week were sick for five days over the three-month period. But those who didn’t exercise regularly were down with a cold for about nine days.

The study also took a close look at the dietary habits, lifestyle, and stress levels of the participants. Of course, the participants who ate a lot of fruits were less susceptible to the cold. But it’s interesting that being a married older male also seemed to reduce the risks of catching a cold.

Working Out and Other Diseases

Besides the common cold, regular workouts can help to keep a few serious chronic conditions at bay. Sadly, some analyses indicate that the percentage of people who don’t work out is alarmingly high.

According to a 2002 study, 12.6 million Americans suffered from coronary diseases, 17 million from diabetes, and 50 million from hypertension. Luckily, people now seem to be more aware that regular exercise is paramount to preventing or controlling said conditions. This is why it’s important to take a closer look at the conditions that can be prevented by exercising.

Heart Conditions

Taking regular aerobic exercise can markedly improve your vascular health. Even the people who have a heart condition can alleviate the symptoms by exercising. The intensity and workout intervals may vary from one person to another. Nevertheless, there is no need to push yourself hard to get the benefits.

Back Pain

Moderate exercise helps improve your back muscles. There are special workouts that strengthen the spinal muscles which can make back pain symptoms less severe. The exact exercise type and frequency usually depend on the origin and intensity of the back pain. Thus, it is advisable to consult a physician to get the figure out the most optimal workout routine.

Arthritis

You might not be aware of the fact that exercising can also prevent or at least help with arthritis. Those who suffer from arthritis can improve muscle tone and make their joints nimbler with exercise.

Diabetes

Unfortunately, diabetes is one of the chronic conditions plaguing contemporary societies. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Insulin is more effective at maintaining optimal blood sugar levels when you exercise regularly. In addition, most workouts are also designed to reduce weight – the excess of which is a primary cause of diabetes.

Asthma

Regular workouts can help with asthma attacks. However, you should be aware that exercise may also trigger asthma in some sufferers. In general, you can’t go wrong with moderate exercises that fit your fitness and health level.

Breast and Colon Cancer

A study shows that working out reduces the risk of breast cancer by 75%. Colon cancer risk, on the other hand, is reduced by 22%. There is also evidence that guided exercise may help those rehabilitating from these debilitating conditions.

How Much and How Hard Should You Exercise?

By now, it is obvious that regular workouts can have a lot of benefits for your health and keep you from getting sick. At this point, you are probably wondering about the exercise intensity and frequency that can deliver the best results. Usually, a customized routine that fits your age, strength, and overall health condition would yield the best results.

A general recommendation is to engage in half-hour exercises for five or more times a week. This doesn’t mean that you need to pump iron for 30 minutes every day. Easy cardio exercises like long brisk walks are enough. If half an hour is too much for you in one go, you can also divide the time into a few intervals and spread them out through the day.

Are There Any Risks?

If you go for long brisk walks, there is basically no risk involved. But other intensive exercises might come with a certain amount of risk. It is best to take things slowly, especially if you haven’t exercised for a long time.

You should carefully choose the type of exercise to avoid severe muscle soreness and injury. Once you are comfortable with your stamina and strength, feel free to increase the workout intensity and duration. And if you are not sure how to do it, consult your physician for some extra help.

Wrapping Up

Will working out keep me from getting sick? Yes, it will. But the answer to this question is deeper than that.

According to studies mentioned in this write-up and more, exercising regularly doesn’t only keep you from getting sick. It also has numerous benefits to your overall health. But exercising is only one part of the story.

Lifestyle changes and improved dietary habits are crucial for staying healthy. And if you combine them with an efficient gym routine, you’ll have a lot less to worry about your health.

References:

https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/45/12/987?sid=e6594508-3aaa-4c61-99ba-4ea138580947
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18159963
https://aspe.hhs.gov/basic-report/physical-activity-fundamental-preventing-disease
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/enjoy-food/eating-with-diabetes/whats-your-healthy-weight
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise-and-chronic-disease/art-20046049

Health

Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever – How to Eat Your Way Back to Health

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 28, 2018 Last Edited: November 23, 2018

Arch

You’re probably familiar with this old English proverb. “Feed a cold, starve a fever” is a concise way to say the following:

When you’ve got a cold, you should eat (and drink) a lot in order to get better.
If you have a fever, you can bring it down if you avoid eating.

The first time this adage was recorded in a dictionary was back in 1547.

It’s fascinating to look at the reasoning behind this advice. The idea was to regulate body temperature based on what you eat. People used to assume that eating would give the fever additional fuel or energy. Eating less while they were feverish was believed to keep the body’s energy levels and the fever down.

It’s clear that this was based on a flawed understanding of how fever works. But is there any truth to it? Let’s look at the best kind of diet when you’re sick.

Evidence in Favor of This Saying

In 2002, a group of Dutch scientists argued that “feed a cold, starve a fever” might be worth taken seriously.

Here is how they explained it:

Eating Increases Your Gamma Interferon Levels

Research shows that gamma interferon has an important role in your body’s immune response to viruses. They are still working on ways to improve the levels of this substance in your blood.

The Dutch study showed that consuming meals had a very significant positive effect on gamma interferon production. While drinking water is crucial for other reasons, it doesn’t impact the levels of this substance in your body.

Hence, there is a solid scientific reason to “feed a cold”. It gives your immune system a boost and makes it easier to deal with viruses. Remember that the common cold is a form of viral infection.

Fasting Boosts Your Interleukin-4 Levels

What about the other half of the adage? Did the Dutch team really prove you need to “starve a fever”?

They found that going without food for a while boosts your interleukin-4 production. Interleukin-4 is another substance that improves your immune responses. It has a strong anti-inflammatory effect and could help your body deal with bacterial infections that come with a fever.

To summarize, eating boosts your immunity against viruses, while fasting has an anti-inflammatory effect. This makes it seem like it’s a good idea to follow that old advice. But there are some other concerns that the Dutch study didn’t take into account.

Counterarguments

Other scientists argue that it’s better to adopt the philosophy “feed a cold, and also feed a fever”.

Eating well when you have a cold is a great piece of advice. Your gamma interferon levels will grow, and you’ll also have more energy. Exhaustion is one of the consequences of having a cold, and you should do all you can to curb its effects.

When it comes to fever, the Dutch study didn’t go into what caused the fever in the first place. In many cases, viral infection is to blame, so eating well will ultimately help your body battle the fever. While fasting does have an anti-inflammatory effect, it’s less useful than the immunity boost you get from the increased gamma interferon production.

But there’s also another important reason to eat well when you have a fever. When your body temperature is higher than average, your metabolism speeds up. This burns up calories, which means you need to eat more than usual to keep your strength up.

Why Is Your Appetite Low When You’re Sick?

If you have a cold or a fever, you might not feel like eating anything. Being sick lowers your appetite because of the chemicals your body uses to combat the infection. These chemicals also cause you to feel fatigued and irritable.

If you’ve only been sick for a few days, it’s not a problem to follow your appetite. There’s a chance that the anti-inflammatory effect will help you get better.

But if your symptoms last for more than a few days, you need to make the effort to eat regularly. It’s very important to protect yourself from exhaustion and boost the levels of gamma interferon in the body.

Drinking Is Crucial During Cold and Fevers

Even if you decide to go without food for a while, you can’t skip drinking liquids.

Dehydration can only worsen the symptoms of your cold. The mucus in your nose and throat will harden. Without running mucus, your recovery process slows down considerably.

If you’ve got a fever, drinking becomes even more important. You might not be able to notice the warning signs of severe dehydration. Set up a hydration schedule and avoid coffee or alcohol.

Diet Ideas

What should you eat when you’re sick? These meal options are great for colds and fevers alike.

Chicken Soup and Broths

There is a reason why chicken soup is famous for its restorative power. While it can’t cure you, it will help you restore lost calories and keep you safe from dehydration. Additionally, it’s rich in minerals and vitamins that can improve your immune reactions. The protein helps with keeping your strength up.

Broths are useful for all the same reasons. It’s best to eat the soup or broth while it’s still hot, as this can have a natural decongestant effect.

Fresh Fruit and Vegetables

Bananas are particularly helpful when you’re sick. They can improve your energy levels and they’re rich in useful minerals. You should also consider berries and avocados for their anti-inflammatory effect. Citrus fruit can give your immune system a boost, especially pomegranates.

Don’t forget leafy greens either, which may have an anti-bacterial effect.

Spicy Food

If you don’t have any digestive issues, opt for spicy foods. They can improve mucus production and speed up your recovery. However, it’s important to follow your own appetite. If the idea of eating something spicy seems unappealing, don’t worry about this option.

Salmon

You need to choose protein-rich foods, so it’s a good idea to consume meat while you’re sick. Salmon is the healthiest possible option, as it’s rich in vitamins and can battle inflammation.

Probiotics

Natural probiotics can help soothe any digestive problems but they can also help with your fever. So don’t forget yogurt while you’re sick.

Conclusion

“Feed a cold, starve a fever” isn’t the best way to go. While it does have some scientific backing, it’s better to avoid fasting when you’re feverish. It’s also important to choose the right diet, as it could aid your recovery.

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC119893/
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/fact-or-fiction-feed-a-cold/
http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20131203-feed-a-cold-starve-a-fever
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19227440
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2966764/
https://theconversation.com/mondays-medical-myth-feed-a-cold-starve-a-fever-13661
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3868788/

Health

What Does Heartburn Feel Like? Learn to Identify the Symptoms

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 27, 2018 Last Edited: November 23, 2018

Arch

Experts say that heartburn is an extremely common experience. Every month, over 60 million Americans have to deal with heartburn. Almost everyone will experience it at some point.

Despite all that, heartburn is frequently misunderstood. For example, some people assume that this is a cardiac problem. Many believe heartburn is a medical condition on its own.

When you experience acid reflux, your stomach acid reaches your esophagus and irritates it. The sensation that usually comes with acid reflux is called heartburn. It’s rare but possible to have acid reflux without experiencing this consequence.

In other words, heartburn is actually a group of interrelated symptoms rather than a condition. It’s caused by acid reflux.

So, what does heartburn feel like and is it dangerous? What should you do about it? Let’s look into some questions people tend to have about these symptoms.

Symptoms – What Does Heartburn Feel Like?

When you have heartburn, you may experience some of the following:

1. A Burning Sensation in Your Chest

Here is the reason why many people confuse heartburn with heart problems. It causes a burning sensation behind the breastbone. You might also feel this sensation in the upper parts of your stomach.

The discomfort in your chest may get worse if you bend over or lie down. Additionally, the pain tends to grow if you consume more food while you’re feeling the symptoms of heartburn.

2. Coughing and a Sore Throat

When the stomach acid reaches your esophagus, it may cause you to start coughing. Heartburn can make it difficult to swallow and you might feel like there’s something stuck in your throat. You may also experience a throat ache. It generally comes with a burning sensation.

3. Bad Breath and a Bad Taste in Your Mouth

It can give you a bad breath, and it comes with an unpleasant taste in your mouth. You may feel there’s a sour, salty, or acidic fluid in the back of your throat. Some people also regurgitate recently consumed food or liquids. Belching and bloating are common too.

Duration – How Long Does Heartburn Last?

For some, heartburn only lasts a few minutes after eating. In this case, it’s nothing more than a passing discomfort and you will probably feel that it’s unnecessary to do anything about it.

But if you’re unlucky, the symptoms can last for two hours or more. It can have a serious impact on your wellbeing. If you have heartburn, you may find it difficult to enjoy a meal, especially in a social setting.

It’s important to note that heartburn is often more severe during the night.

Causes – Why Does Heartburn Happen?

The esophagus is your food tube. At the bottom of this tube, there is a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter. It keeps your esophagus closed up against the stomach, so acid and food in the stomach can’t come up. When you eat or drink, this muscle relaxes and allows you to swallow, but then it immediately tightens again.

Acid reflux happens when this sphincter isn’t functioning normally. Risk factors also include increased production of stomach acid.

Now let’s take a look at the risk factors. When exactly can you expect heartburn?

You May Get Heartburn After Consuming Certain Foods

People tend to experience heartburn after they ate high-fat or extremely spicy food. Acidic fruits and juices can cause heartburn as well (for example, tomatoes, citrus fruits, or pineapple). Consuming peppermint, chocolate, or onions puts you at risk as well.

Additionally, you may experience it when you have an exceptionally large meal or you eat late at night.

Caffeine, Alcohol, and Carbonated Drinks Can Be a Risk Factor

These beverages increase stomach acid secretion.

Certain Types of Medication Can Lead to Heartburn

Aspirin and ibuprofen are frequent causes of acid reflux. Antibiotics and some food supplements increase the risk too.

Smokers Are Likelier to Experience Heartburn

Doctors have found that smoking and heartburn are connected for several reasons. The tobacco in cigarette relaxes your esophageal sphincter, which allows acid to pass through. Smoking may result in severe coughs, and coughing makes acid reflux more severe. Additionally, smoking decreases acid production and this leads to increased irritation in your esophagus.

Pregnant Women Are Especially at Risk

During pregnancy, the body goes through changes in hormone production. Progesterone levels go up, which leads to some muscles relaxing. When it affects the muscles around your esophagus, it causes acid reflux.

Obesity and Heartburn Are Linked

Research shows that gaining weight increases your likelihood of experiencing heartburn. It’s not clear yet how the two conditions are connected. One possibility is that extra fat puts pressure on the stomach, which causes the acid to rise up to the esophagus.

Treatment – What Can You Do About It?

If your heartburn is fleeting and happens rarely, you don’t need to do anything about it. It’s a brief discomfort that’s easy to ignore.

But in cases of persistent or long-lasting heartburn, lifestyle changes are a good idea. It helps to lose weight and to give up smoking and drinking. Some people go on heartburn diets, which means keeping away from acidic foods.

You can also opt for antacids and other over-the-counter medication. For people who experience heartburn during the night, it helps to elevate the head of the bed.

Do you ever need to turn to a doctor?

If your heartburn persists after you’ve initiated lifestyle changes, it’s a good idea to seek medical help. Your doctor might be able to prescribe the latest antacids that are not yet available OTC or better home treatment options.

Very frequent heartburn may be a sign of chronic acid reflux (GERD). This can be dangerous, as it can cause permanent changes in your esophagus. If this is the case for you, you will need serious medical help. The complications of acid reflux are treated via surgery.

A Final Thought

Unfortunately, a heart attack can be mistaken for heartburn, and vice versa. When you experience a tightening chest pain, it’s important to ask some questions. You don’t want to risk leaving a cardiac issue untreated just because you made the wrong assumption.

Remember to ask yourself, “What does heartburn feel like?” It comes with a burning sensation. In contrast, heart issues come with a squeezing, tightening pain in the chest. Heart pain might spread out to the lower jaw, shoulders, and neck.

It’s also important to observe other symptoms. Heartburn may cause bloating and bad breath. If you feel fatigued, breathless, and you’re breaking out in cold sweat, contact emergency services. These are the symptoms of a heart attack.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322737.php
https://www.floridahospital.com/heartburn-gerd/statistics-about-heartburn
https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/qa/how-long-does-heartburn-last
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-heartburn-last
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/expert-answers/heartburn-gerd/faq-20058535
https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/features/heartburn-tobacco-connection#1
https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/features/no-heartburn-diet#1

Health

Myokymia 101: Learn What Causes Eye Twitching and How to Get Rid of It

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 27, 2018 Last Edited: November 26, 2018

John

Myokymia is the scientific word for a repetitive, involuntary spasm in the eyelid. Everyone has experienced this at one point or another. It’s not painful and experts say that it usually isn’t associated with any disease.

The movements in the muscles around your eye tend to be very slight and eye twitches can pass without you noticing.

However, there are situations where eye twitching becomes pronounced and causes social embarrassment. In rare cases, it can come with a spasm that visibly impacts half of your face. If you have to deal with frequent or intense eyelid twitching, consider looking into treatments.

Let’s take a look at what causes eye twitching. Although there’s no definitive treatment, there are a few different ways you can remedy this problem.

A Final Word

There are many different remedies for eyelid twitching. Reducing fatigue is probably the most effective one. It’s generally enough to get more sleep and to avoid tobacco, coffee, and alcohol.

But there are some additional forms of treatment for particularly severe cases of myokymia. For instance, you may opt for taking botox injections. This is a temporary but extremely efficient solution to the problem.

References:

https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1213160-overview
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863
https://www.livestrong.com/article/523576-caffeine-eye-twitching/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/caffeine-withdrawal-symptoms
https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/tobacco_control/smoking_can_lead_to_vision_loss_or_blindness.htm
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/how-to-stop-eye-twitching
https://www.sleepassociation.org/about-sleep/sleep-statistics/
https://www.healthline.com/health/blepharitis
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-conjunctivitis

Health

When You Keep Waking Up with a Headache – What to Do to Fix Your Mornings

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 27, 2018 Last Edited: November 23, 2018

Arch

Researchers have found that around 1 in13 people suffer from headaches first thing in the morning. For how widespread it is, this phenomenon isn’t discussed too often.

Headaches can have a significant negative impact on your day. Instead of waking up cheerful and well-rested, you have to face your tasks while feeling off-balance. This impacts both your mood and your ability to concentrate.

If this happens every time you wake up, you might assume that headaches are impossible to avoid. But the truth is that there are many different causes behind this experience. Depending on the source of the headache, you might be able to find a solution.

Types of Morning Headaches

Doctors say that there are over 150 different kinds of headaches. Let’s look at the types you might develop during the night.

Migraines

When you wake up in the morning, your body’s natural defenses against pain are at its lowest point. Consequently, you are particularly vulnerable to various pain conditions, including migraines.

A migraine is a severe chronic condition, and medical science isn’t yet sure of its underlying cause. Migraines are characterized by severe, disabling pain that comes as a response to an external or internal trigger. There is definitely a genetic component that impacts this process. Common triggers include strong smells, loud noises, hormone level fluctuations, and exhaustion.

According to the American Migraine Foundation, almost half of all migraines happen between 4 and 9am.

Tension Headaches

These headaches are caused by muscle contractions in the neck and head. You might suffer from a tension headache after looking at your screen for a long time. They’re also caused by smoking, poor posture, stress, and fatigue.

It’s not always easy to tell whether you’re having a migraine or a tension headache. Generally speaking, migraines are more severe.

The Potential Causes of Early Morning Headaches

If you keep waking up with a headache, what to do will depend on what’s causing the pain. Here are some of the possible reasons why you’re starting the day with a headache:

Getting Woken by a Migraine

If the symptoms of your migraine are severe, you might find it very difficult to get enough sleep.

Strained Neck Muscles

When you fall asleep in an uncomfortable position, there’s a chance you’ll wake up with a tension headache. This is why high-quality pillows are an important part of sleeping hygiene.

Note that you can also get a tension headache from hypertension or other medical conditions that affect the muscles.

Alcohol or Medication

People who drink to excess have to consider the possibility of waking up with a hangover. Hydration is one of the ways you can curb the symptoms. In addition to alcoholic drinks, there are various medications that can cause early-morning headaches.

Depression and Anxiety

Here are two frequent causes of morning headaches. Statistics show that over 18% of US adults struggle with an anxiety disorder, which makes it the most common mental illness in the country.

Anxiety and depression are often interlinked. Nearly half of people with depression experience anxiety as well. You shouldn’t leave either condition untreated.

Sleeping Disorders

Many people get headaches as a result of fatigue. While fatigue can come from your lifestyle choices, it can also be caused by insomnia or sleep apnea. If you can’t sleep through the night sleep without waking up, seek medical advice.

Bruxism

This is a medical term for inadvertently grinding your teeth. It can happen when you’re awake, but it usually occurs while you’re asleep. Bruxism has been linked to sleep apnea and it also tends to be a symptom of anxiety.

Other Health Concerns

There are a few more options you should take into account. For example, sinus headaches aren’t closely related to your sleeping cycles, but you may feel them more intensely in the early hours.

How Can You Address This Problem?

First, let’s look at a few simple lifestyle changes you can implement right away. Improving your disordered sleeping habits might be enough to free you of the pain you keep waking up with.

Plan on enjoying seven to eight hours of sleep per night. Experts say that 7-9 hours is the normal range for adults.
Make sure your room is quiet, dark, and slightly cooler than the rest of the house.
If possible, aim for consistency. Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day, which includes the weekends.
Don’t keep electronics by your bed, and avoid using your phone directly before you fall asleep.
Avoid consuming alcohol to excess, and give up caffeine in the afternoon and evening.

But what if all of these conditions are met and you still have to deal with headaches?

Find Out If You Have Sleep Apnea

Here is a widespread but underdiagnosed sleep disorder. It can have a severe negative impact on your overall health. Some people need a surgical procedure to solve this problem, while others can make do with a CPAP machine.

Get Treated for Insomnia, Depression, or Anxiety

If you suspect you suffer from insomnia, consult with your doctor. It’s very important to keep in mind that these problems are all interrelated. For example, taking anti-anxiety medication might have a significant impact on your sleeping habits. All of these conditions can be treated successfully.

If Necessary, Change Your Pillow and Mattress

Substandard mattresses and pillows can prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep. As mentioned before, sleeping in the wrong position might lead to tension headaches too.

Talk to Your Doctor About Any Medications You’re Taking

Persistent headaches could be an unwanted side effect of drugs, prescribed or otherwise. Don’t hesitate to bring up this concern with your doctors and look for a change in medications.

Solve the Underlying Causes Behind Bruxism

By living a less stressful life, you can avoid grinding your teeth at night. If you’re worried about damaging your teeth, dentures might be an acceptable interim solution.

Conclusion

It’s crucial to identify the reason why you keep waking up with a headache. What to do next? The answer depends on your circumstances and medical needs. It’s a good idea to discuss your experiences with your doctors. Whatever your situation is, you don’t have to look for a solution alone.

References:

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2004-01/jaaj-mha010804.php
https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/migraines-headaches-basics#1
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/148373.php
https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/sleep/
https://adaa.org/about-adaa/press-room/facts-statistics
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/teeth-grinding-bruxism#1
https://www.everydayhealth.com/sleep/101/how-much-sleep-do-you-need.aspx
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20377631

Health

How to Get Rid of Moles on Your Skin –Treatments That Work, Treatments That Don’t

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 26, 2018 Last Edited: November 23, 2018

Arch

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nearly all adults have a few skin moles. Moles appear during childhood and adolescence, and people with lighter skin tend to have more of them. It’s not unusual to have up to forty moles on your body.

In most cases, moles aren’t harmful and it’s not necessary to remove them. However, there are some notable exceptions.

Why Do People Choose to Have Their Moles Removed?

You may want to get rid of a mole because you dislike the way it looks on your skin. While some moles are small and referred to as beauty marks, others are seen as unsightly. Many people choose mole removal for cosmetic reasons, and dermatologists are absolutely willing to perform this kind of treatment.

But there are also practical reasons to get rid of moles. There are moles that can rub up against clothing and cause discomfort. It’s better to remove them than risk skin infections.

Most importantly, your doctor will want to remove moles that are a sign of skin cancer. Getting rid of suspicious moles is an effective preventive measure against serious complications.

How to Recognize a Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of cancer that can start in any part of the body that has pigmented tissues. Most frequently, they start in your skin.

You don’t want to put off treating melanoma if you recognize the symptoms. People with a family history of skin cancers have to be particularly careful.

In the beginning, skin melanoma looks a lot like a harmless mole. This is why it’s crucial to learn the difference between harmless and suspicious moles. So let’s take a look at the ABCDEs of a melanoma:

A – Asymmetry

If one side of the mole looks different from the other, you should seek out medical advice because it might be cancerous.

B – Border

Melanomas have an irregular, poorly-defined, or scalloped border.

C – Color

While melanomas can be brown, red, blue, black, or white, they tend to come in varied shades. If a mole changes color over time, contact a doctor right away.

D – Diameter

Melanomas are typically larger in diameter than a pencil eraser.

E – Evolving

If your mole is changing size or shape, it might be a sign of melanoma. Newly formed moles on adults are suspicious as well.

You should also note that melanomas can cause itching and discomfort. If you experience symptoms like that, find a dermatologist. Even if it’s not cancer, why should you deal with bothersome moles? The removal process is relatively simple and has instantaneous results.

How to Get Rid of Moles at a Clinic

If you have a mole that you want to remove, you should contact a doctor. Here is what will happen.

Diagnosing the Mole

First, your doctor will study the mole. If there’s any indicator that it could be melanoma, your dermatologist will do a biopsy. They’ll take a small sample of skin cells directly from the mole, and then they’ll send the sample to a laboratory for analysis. This is a sure way to tell whether you’re currently at risk of this kind of cancer.

Mole Removal

This process depends on the size of your mole.

Do you have a relatively little and harmless mole? If so, the doctor will use shave excision or a punch biopsy.

To begin with, they will numb the impacted part of your skin. A shave excision means cutting away the mole using a small knife. If they opt for a punch biopsy instead, they’ll use a small tool to get rid of it.

In the case of larger and deeper moles, surgery is required. In this case, your doctor will remove a part of your healthy skin along with the mole.

What About Home Remedies?

There are people who prefer to avoid the hassle and cost of getting a mole professionally removed. If this is a case for you, you should note that home remedies are a possibility. However, experts say that these treatment options have never been verified.

People try to use garlic, potatoes, honey, iodine, aloe vera, oregano or castor oil, flaxseed oil, lemon juice, and many other home remedies to get rid of moles. None of these options have been backed up by science. It’s difficult to tell whether they are effective.

You can also try buying over-the-counter mole removal creams. These are always more effective than home remedies, but they have some downsides.

Is there a way mole treatment can be harmful? Here are the dangers you should keep in mind.

Misused Home Remedies

It’s very important to avoid misusing home remedies and natural remedies. For example, if you want to try hydrogen peroxide, follow the instructions carefully. Undiluted essential oils can damage your skin, so do your research before you start using them.

Allergic Reactions

Even if you haven’t been allergic to the substance in question, you should proceed with care. Always perform an allergy test on your skin before you start treating a mole. Try out the remedy on a small, undamaged area of your skin first and wait for the results. If you notice any kind of irritation, this isn’t the right remedy for you.

You also need to keep track of your reactions while you’re using any kind of treatment, including medicine. If you experience an unusual reaction, stop immediately.

Low-Quality Mole Removal Products

Over-the-counter mole removal creams may be efficient, but they tend to damage the skin. If you apply them on the mole, you may end up with a permanent hole on your skin.

Unrecognized Skin Cancer

This is definitely the biggest risk that comes from taking care of your moles at home. Without professional supervision, you may not realize that you are at risk. Remember that recognizing cancer at the earliest stages is the best way to beat it.

A Final Thought

While over-the-counter creams are an option, it’s always safer to get your moles removed by a dermatologist. In particular, people with diabetes should always seek out professional help when it comes to getting rid of moles. Home removals are unacceptably risky for anyone with slow-healing tissues.

What if you’re unwilling to hire a doctor for removal? If you’re completely sure the mole is benign, you can simply choose to cover it up. Many people hide moles with makeup. If there is hair there that bothers you, it’s fine to have it plucked.

References:

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/bumps-and-growths/moles
https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-and-beauty/skin-conditions/tips/mole-or-skin-cancer.aspx
https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-cancer/cancer-moles-and-mole-removal.aspx
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321216.php
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beauty_mark
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/moles/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20375204

Lena Dunham Wants to Be the “Face of Fibromyalgia”

Written By: John

Published Date: November 26, 2018 Last Edited: November 26, 2018

John

In a profile of Girls star Lena Dunham in New York, the writer and television producer opened up about her health struggles, which include having her uterus removed during a hysterectomy and being diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Dunham goes into great detail about her struggles with both mental health (PTSD and anxiety brought on by sexual assault) and physical health (endometriosis, chronic pain due to a mixed connective-tissue disorder that makes her joints hurt, and fibromyalgia). She also talks about being a cultural lightning rod, her break up with her longtime boyfriend, and the end of her working relationship with Girls co-creator Jenni Conner.

After Lady Gaga, Lena Dunham is probably the most high-profile celebrity to talk about her diagnosis with fibromyalgia. Dunham is also a lot more controversial than Lady Gaga, and as she acknowledges in the interview, “I’m not for everyone.” Still, as more celebrities feel comfortable discussing their struggles with fibromyalgia it can only help raise awareness of the diseases, and hopefully, that can lessen the stigma associated with the disease.

Highlights:

Her illness got worse as her the HBO show Girls was coming to an end, and it took a toll on her personal relationships and friendships: “Physical pain is really isolating … I was lonely and medicated.”
She underwent treatment for an addiction to the benzodiazepine Klonopin.
She felt “vindicated” after her uterus was removed and her surgeon told her it was “You have the most misshapen and diseased uterus I’ve seen in my entire career.”
Dunham is experiencing perimenopause after the removal of her uterus.
She’s currently taking Lyrica for fibromyalgia, along with the antidepressant Lexapro, and a medication for adrenal glands.
She told the author that she’d like to be “the face of fibromyalgia.”
Dunham is in group therapy for her PTSD, which she attributes to sexual assault and “medical trauma.”
Lady Gaga sends her motivational text messages.

The Sequelae of Fibromyalgia: Depression and Other Conditions

Written By: Alexandra Waller

Published Date: November 26, 2018 Last Edited: November 7, 2018

John

There can be several complications that arise from fibromyalgia. Sequelae is a term used to describe secondary results or the aftereffect of a disease. Here we will be looking at the sequelae of fibromyalgia, including depression and other conditions. First, let’s look at what is fibromyalgia.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that involves widespread muscle pain and tenderness. Unfortunately, this condition does not have a cure. However, it can be treated. Doctors are still unsure what exactly causes fibromyalgia. In addition to widespread pain, there are other symptoms, including fatigue, difficulty paying attention, difficulty sleeping, migraines, “fibro fog,” irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and depression.

Depression

Fibromyalgia can lead to a secondary condition: depression. People with fibromyalgia may also have depression. In fact, around 90% of people who have fibromyalgia also have symptoms of depression. When doctors attempt to add medications on top of medications it can become a bit overwhelming for fibromyalgia patients. Instead of solving the problem, the condition may get worse. Sometimes the pain can be overwhelming that it leads to depression.

What can help?

Ask a doctor you trust about possible solutions. One possible solution is therapy. Therapy may be a great option for fibromyalgia patients with depression. There are one-on-one sessions or support groups. You are not alone. There are treatment options.

Another option is cognitive therapy. Cognitive therapy is a kind of psychotherapy. It involves challenging negative thought patterns to treat certain mood disorders or behavior patterns.

Lack of Productivity

As previously mentioned, fibromyalgia can impact not only the physical aspect of the body but also the internal. The widespread pain patients feel from fibromyalgia can negatively impact their mental health. People can experience “fibro fog,” which involves low amounts of pain for a long period. Patients can also experience joint pain, which can impact mobility and productivity. Lifestyles can be disrupted because patients with fibromyalgia may not be able to work or may need to receive disability benefits. The lack of productivity and negative impact fibromyalgia can have on patients’ lifestyles can lead to seclusion and isolation, which can then lead to depression. Patients may withdraw from activities and social activities.

What can help?

Fibromyalgia flare-ups can occur. These pain flare-ups can be caused by stress or depression. But they can also lead to stress or depression as well. This cycle of pain and negative impact on mental health can continue. Possible solutions include pain medication or alternative medicines. If medications are not working, ask your doctor about natural remedies to help treat your symptoms.

Another option available is physical therapy. Physical therapy can help treat symptoms by using physical methods to help ease the pain.

Other Conditions

Although it is not known whether or not fibromyalgia causes other conditions, we will be looking at possible related diseases. For example, fibromyalgia may not cause depression. However, it can be related to the chronic disease. This is why it is important to be aware of what symptoms you may be experiencing to more accurately identify your condition.

Related Conditions

Patients who have fibromyalgia are more likely to have other related conditions including:

Autoimmune Diseases: Specifically, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and lupus are serious autoimmune diseases that may accompany fibromyalgia. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system attacks the healthy cells.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This disease is often characterized by extreme exhaustion and fatigue, sleep problems, and pain.
Endometriosis: A female reproductive disorder that involves tissue growing outside of the uterus when it usually lines the uterus.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A large amount of fibromyalgia patients also suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome is a digestive disorder that can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and/or cramping.
Migraines: People who have fibromyalgia may also suffer from migraines. Additionally, migraines can even trigger fibromyalgia symptoms. Migraines are different from headaches. People can get mild headaches from time to time. However, migraines are a form of a severe headache that can cause nausea, vomiting, and make you sensitive to lights and loud noises. However, patients with fibromyalgia may still experience tension headaches.
Osteoarthritis: This condition is usually characterized by joint pain in which tissue found at the end of bones is worn down.
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): A condition that occurs when there is an irresistible urge to move the legs.

You are not alone. It can be difficult, but there are resources online. There are additional resources that can be provided by your medical healthcare professional. Reach out to others who may have similar experiences and talk to your doctor if you have any questions.

Health

The Imperfections of Kim Kardashian: Psoriasis Itching for the Limelight

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 26, 2018 Last Edited: November 26, 2018

John

Beauty, money, and fame. It seems like Kim Kardashian has it all. But this beauty icon and reality TV star doesn’t try to hide a condition that could mar that perfection: psoriasis.

She has made no secret of her diagnosis since coming out about it on her reality TV show, “Keeping Up with the Kardashians”. In fact, her struggles with the disease may have increased her popularity.

A stressful skin condition hasn’t seemed to slow Kim Kardashian down. Psoriasis plagues millions of people around the world, but Kardashian is using her celebrity status to give hope to those who have this incurable disease.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis may not have been on your radar until Kim Kardashian came out with it, but it’s more common than you think. Many doctors write off potential psoriasis diagnoses as a rash or ringworm, leaving many cases of psoriasis to go unnoticed.

Still, it’s the most common autoimmune disease in the United States. This skin condition affects 7.5 million Americans and 125 million people around the world.

In the simplest terms, psoriasis speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, causing red, itchy patches to form on the skin.

Unfortunately, doctors are unsure as to the direct causes of psoriasis. They think that the condition may be related to neutrophils, an immune system problem that causes the T cells and other white blood cells in the body to attack healthy skin cells. The T cells think that they’re fighting an infection or healing a wound, causing skin cells to shed at an accelerated rate.

Speeding up the natural timeline of skin cells causes them to move to the outer layer too quickly. What used to take weeks only takes days for people with psoriasis. At the same time, the build-up creates patches of thick, scaly skin on the surface.

There is currently no cure for psoriasis, so the best that psoriasis sufferers can hope for is to manage the symptoms. Since it is a chronic condition that comes and goes, treatment options focus on keeping the cells from growing too quickly.

Risk Factors

Certain people are at a higher risk of developing psoriasis than others. Although anyone can develop this condition, the following factors may increase the risk:

Family History

Like many diseases, family history plays a large part in your risk potential. Having one or two parents that have psoriasis can increase the risk of getting it, too.

Viral and Bacterial Infections

If you have chronic infections or a weak immune system, you’re at a higher risk of developing psoriasis.

Obesity

Another risk factor is excessive weight gain. Lesions that can develop in skin folds and creases are associated with different types of psoriasis.

Stress

Stress plays a role in increasing the likelihood of developing psoriasis because it can weaken your immune system.

Smoking

Lastly, smoking tobacco may play a role in the initial development of psoriasis, as well as increase your risk and severity of the symptoms.

Symptoms and Complications

Psoriasis is most recognized by the red, scaly patches that can develop. Depending on the type of psoriasis you have, you may have additional symptoms like:

Swollen or stiff joints
Ridged, pitted, or thickened nails
Burning, soreness, or itching
Cracked, dry skin

Patches may range in size, too, from a few spots of scaling to big eruptions that cover large areas of your body. Of the five types of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis is the most common. Nearly 80% people diagnosed with psoriasis have plaque psoriasis. This is the type that causes raised, dry, red skin lesions to develop anywhere on your body.

Although psoriasis can be embarrassing and painful, the condition itself is not life-threatening. The problem lies in a greater risk potential for developing other serious diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

Treatment Options

There are a variety of treatment options to keep the symptoms at bay. The majority of treatments fall under the “topical” category, but psoriasis sufferers also have the option of using light therapy or systemic medications to help clear the skin and reduce possible inflammation.

The scope of your treatment options, however, depends on different considerations like:

Type of psoriasis
Severity
Areas affected

Additionally, a number of alternative medicine therapies may be helpful in controlling the signs and symptoms of the disease. However, experts believe that while these therapies are generally safe, they are also more appropriate for milder forms of the disease.

The World Is Watching the Kim Kardashian Psoriasis Struggle

Kim Kardashian is very open and upfront about having psoriasis today, but that wasn’t the case when she was first diagnosed back in 2010. Even a year later, she was using cover-up spray and asking photographers to edit out the patch she had on her leg.

That has all changed in recent years, however, and she has owned it in a way that is completely Kim Kardashian. Psoriasis may have taken her by surprise, but she is very open about her journey now. She posts photos and updates on social media and her reality TV show to keep fans and fellow psoriasis sufferers up-to-date on her condition.

Ever since she found out about her condition, Kim Kardashian has tried many different treatments to keep her flare-ups and symptoms under control. She’s also adopted lifestyle changes that may help minimize flare-ups and symptom severity.

And whether she intended to or not, her open attitude has inspired others to come out in the open about their own struggles with psoriasis.

Final Thought

As one of the world’s biggest celebrities, Kim Kardashian was no stranger to stress and insecurity. Psoriasis plagued her mother, Kris Jenner, so she knew she was at a high risk of the condition. However, when she first found out, she tried to hide it from a world that valued her looks and beauty above all.

Her change in attitude and the decision to come out about her condition hasn’t affected her career adversely as she once feared. Instead, it’s shown other psoriasis sufferers that they don’t have to suffer in silence and shame anymore.

Although psoriasis affects so many people around the world, the stigma and shame that are attached to the condition still remain. Hopefully, with Kim Kardashian and other celebrities coming out about having the disease, others sufferers will also have the courage to come forward and seek the support that they need.

References:

https://www.psoriasis.org/media/press-releases/kim-kardashian-has-psoriasis
https://www.psoriasis.org/content/statistics
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840
https://www.bustle.com/p/kim-kardashian-just-posted-a-photo-of-her-psoriasis-its-so-refreshingly-honest-7690618
http://uk.businessinsider.com/what-is-psoriasis-kim-kardashian-skin-condition-2017-12

Health

How to Get Rid of an Ingrown Hair and Keep Them from Coming Back

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 26, 2018 Last Edited: November 20, 2018

Arch

If you’ve never experienced an ingrown hair, count yourself lucky. But the majority of the population has experienced it at least once in their lives.

Getting an ingrown hair can be annoying. And it seems like no one is immune to getting them. However, certain factors may increase your risk of getting them.

So, keep reading to find out what it is and how to get rid of an ingrown hair. Also, be sure to check out the tips to keep them from coming back.

What Is an Ingrown Hair?

An ingrown hair is a hair that grows back into the skin. It’s a common occurrence when you remove hair by shaving or with tweezers. When it does grow back under the skin, it can cause pain, inflammation, or bumps to appear in the area where you removed the hair.

Ingrown hairs typically occur when the hair structure and direction of growth are tampered with. For instance, shaving can create sharp edges in a curved hair follicle. When the hair starts to grow back, the sharp edge and curve encourage the hair to go back into the skin.

You may also be more prone to getting ingrown hairs if you pull your skin taut while shaving. Pulling the skin allows the newly cut hair to go back into the skin without growing out first.

Additionally, if you tweeze any area of your body, you may be at risk of frequent ingrown hairs. Because tweezing the hair doesn’t always take the entire hair follicle out, that fragment left under the skin surface can get inflamed.

Symptoms

Some common things to watch for if you think you have an ingrown hair include:

Pain
Itching
Embedded hairs
Hyperpigmentation, or skin darkening
Bumps, either small and solid or blister-like and pus-filled

You can get ingrown hair anywhere you use hair removal. But some of the most common areas include:

Cheeks
Chin
Neck
Scalp
Pubic area
Legs
Armpits

According to experts, though, one of the main risk factors is having tightly curled hair.

They are also more likely to occur in areas that encounter a lot of friction.

How to Treat an Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hairs can be irritating. But most of the time, an ingrown hair will go away on its own without treatment.

You can also try the following home remedies to encourage ingrown hairs to release:

Exfoliation

First, you can try washing and gently exfoliating the affected area. Try using a washcloth or soft-bristled toothbrush and exfoliate in a circular motion for a few minutes.

Use this method before bed or before you shave to prevent more ingrown hairs. Exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and encourage trapped hair to release from the skin.

Sterile Needle

Next, you can also try a sterile needle. But this method may not be for the faint of heart.

First, prepare your skin by holding a warm, wet washcloth over the ingrown hair for about a minute. Doing so may help open up the hair follicle and drain it.

Using a sterilized needle, insert it under the hair loops and gently lift the ingrown hair tip. You may have to tease the hair to show itself on the surface.

When you can see the entire hair, use a pair of sterilized tweezers and grab the hair at the base. Pull up firmly to remove the hair.

Tweezers

In addition, you can also bypass the needle and use a pair of tweezers to remove the hair. However, you need to be able to see the hair to grab it at the base.

If the hair is under the skin, avoid picking at it or you may get an infection.

Ingrown Hair Prevention

Now that you know how to get rid of an ingrown hair, it’s time to get some tips about how to prevent them. One of the best ways to prevent ingrown hairs is to avoid hair removal practices that cause them in the first place. That includes shaving, waxing, and tweezing.

However, if that is not an option, try some of these tips to lower your risk of ingrown hairs:

Soften the hair before shaving with a warm compress or shaving cream/gel
Wash your skin with a mild facial cleanser before shaving
Don’t use dull razors
Avoid pulling your skin taut when you shave
Shave with, not against, the grain
Don’t do close shaves
After every stroke, remember to rinse the blade
Rinse and moisturize your skin after shaving
Use a dry brush to get rid of dead skin cells

Alternative Hair Removal Methods

If you absolutely have to remove hair from your body, you may want to check out these alternative methods.

Electric Clipper or Razor

Going to the barber to get a close shave may be all the rage, but at home opt for some modern conveniences. Use an electric razor or clipper to remove hair.

Furthermore, avoid close shaves when you use electric razors by not using the closest shave setting. Also, try to keep the clipper or razor slightly away from your skin when shaving.

Chemical Hair Removers

You’ve probably seen these depilatories at your local drug store. These chemicals may remove your hair without risk of getting ingrown hairs. But they may also irritate your skin.

Try it on a small patch of skin to test your sensitivity first.

Creams That Decrease Hair Growth and Laser Therapy

Lastly, you may want to consider using a cream that decreases hair growth. A prescription cream combined with another method, like laser therapy, may decrease the need for hair removal methods.

Final Thought

Ingrown hairs can be a pain. But most of the time you don’t have to do anything because they go away on their own.

If, however, you can see the ingrown hair above the surface of the skin, you can try one of the home remedies listed. Additionally, if you shave, tweeze, or wax regularly, be sure to try some of the ingrown hair prevention tips.

You may not be able to stop ingrown hairs completely, but you can limit the risk. And stop those unsightly bumps from appearing on your body.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-hair/symptoms-causes/syc-20373893
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322858.php
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-hair/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373898

Health

What Does a Spider Bite Look Like and What to Do About It

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 23, 2018 Last Edited: November 20, 2018

Arch

All spiders can bite. But some don’t have fangs long enough to puncture the human skin. So you may run across spiders who feel threatened enough to take a bite, but they rarely do much damage.

In the United States, there are only a couple of spiders that have strong enough venom to cause symptoms. And the symptoms may look like any other type of insect bite. How can you tell the difference?

If you think you have a spider bite, keep reading. Find out what to look for and how to treat it.

What to Look For

You woke up with a bite on your body. You’re fairly sure it wasn’t a mosquito. So it must be a spider bite, right?

But what does a spider bite look like?

Unfortunately, unless you see a spider take a bite out of you, it’s generally hard to tell whether what you have is a mosquito or spider bite. Why? They look like any other type of insect bite.

Sometimes, though, the symptoms may be a little different than a mosquito bite. If you have the following symptoms, what you see may be a spider bite:

Red spot or bump on the skin
More painful than itchy
Central puncture area

If the spider is harmless, you probably won’t have symptoms more serious than the ones listed. And contrary to popular belief, wolf spiders, tarantulas, and hobo spiders are not poisonous. Their bites may still cause uncomfortable symptoms such as those listed above. But they rarely bite and in most cases, the bites heal on their own without treatment.

However, if you were bitten by one of the two venomous spiders that reside in the US, you may experience additional symptoms that are typically not connected to insect bites.

Watch for the symptoms listed below:

Black Widows

There are three main symptoms to watch for that deviate from regular spider bites. The first one is pain around the bite mark. Pain from a black widow bite normally starts within an hour of the bite. But it can radiate beyond the bite and spread to your chest, back, and abdomen.

You may also experience abdominal cramping. This goes beyond a simple tummy ache or eating questionable food. Cramping from a bite from this spider may be so severe that you may mistake it for something serious like a ruptured appendix.

In addition, bites from a black widow may make you sweat a lot. This is a reaction to the venom in your system, but it may be easily dismissed for something else. Especially if the other symptoms aren’t that severe.

Brown Recluse

These spiders are another venomous type that you may encounter in the United States. The pain from this type of spider bite may increase after the first 8 hours of the bite. Additionally, you may experience body aches, chills, and a fever.

In some cases, people see the center of the bite darken to a purple or dark blue. Eventually, it turns into a deep open sore. As the skin around the bite dies, you may notice the sore getting larger.

Don’t panic, though. The ulcer typically stops growing after approximately 10 days after the bite. However, you may not see the area fully healed for a few months after the initial bite.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention

Most spider bites don’t require a doctor’s office visit, and they go away on their own. But if you experience the following, it’s a good idea to seek prompt medical attention:

Abdominal cramping, severe pain, or growing ulcer around the bite area
Unsure if the bite is from a poisonous spider
The bitten person has problems breathing

Spiders live everywhere, but there are a few poisonous spider habitats that you should approach with caution.

For example, while black widow spiders can be found throughout the US, you may see more of them in the southwestern states. They have a preference for the following places:

Woodpiles
Garages
Sheds
Gardening equipment or unused pots

On the other hand, brown recluse spiders can live indoors as well as outdoors. They are more common in limited areas of the South and throughout the southern Midwest. These spiders get their name because they like to hide in areas where they are less likely to be bothered.

Indoors, you may find them in the clutter of attics or basements. They also like to live behind dressers and bookshelves, but you rarely find them in used cupboards. Occasionally, you may find them outdoors in quiet, dark spots like in tree stumps or under rocks.

Spider Bite Treatment

If you have a regular spider bite, there are a few things you can do to make the healing process easier. First, wash the bite area with soap and water. If there’s swelling in the area, you can use a cool compress directly on the spider bite.

Furthermore, use over-the-counter medications for any pain relief as needed. If the itchiness is bothering you, you can also try a topical steroid cream. Spider bites usually resolve on its own, so you normally won’t need additional medical attention.

The only complications you may need to watch for is if you’re allergic to spider bites or if the bite gets infected. Both situations may require a doctor’s visit even if it’s just a regular spider bite.

Final Thought

What does a spider bite look like? Unless you are bitten by a poisonous spider, these bites look like any other insect bite. That may not be good news to you, but they are easy to take care of.

If you think you have a spider bite, and it wasn’t poisonous, simple treatments may work wonders. Use them as necessary to take care of pain and itchiness. But try to avoid scratching or picking at it because it may get infected.

Lastly, spider bites are uncomfortable but relatively harmless. So unless you suspect your bite came from a venomous spider, let your body do the work and leave it alone.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/spider-bites/symptoms-causes/syc-20352371
https://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/how-to-recognize-and-treat-spider-bites

Health

How Do You Get Bed Bugs?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 23, 2018 Last Edited: November 20, 2018

Arch

Even though they’ve been around for thousands of years, it wasn’t until fairly recently that people started paying attention to bed bugs. In the late 1990s, the world saw a resurgence of the two main species: Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus.

These flat, brownish insects are natural hitchhikers, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that they’re found in abundance in many states.

There are many reasons why a household might suffer from bed bugs. Contrary to popular belief, unsanitary home conditions don’t play a big role, since bed bugs can live anywhere as long as there’s food.

So how do you get bed bugs? Everyone that wants to ensure they don’t bring bed bugs into their home should be aware of the following:

1. Hotels/Motels

According to statistics, 75% of all bed bugs are found in hotels and motels.

Those on a trip should be extra careful, as it’s very easy to transport them along with the luggage. They can also hide in clothes, so this is the most common way of bringing bed bugs into one’s home.

To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, vacuum your suitcase and wash your clothes as soon as you get home, regardless of the class or cleanliness of your accommodation.

2. Used Furniture

The name of these insects describes their habitat. During the day, they’re very good at hiding in mattresses, any folded furniture area, crevices, and such places.

This is why buying used furniture puts people at risk of bed bugs. They might’ve already reproduced and laid their eggs in the mattress, which could cause an infestation.

If you ever buy used furniture, perform a thorough inspection. Even if you don’t see anything, deep-clean and vacuum the piece of furniture you’ve bought.

The same goes for second-hand clothes, or any other used fabric, as these bugs can hide in all of them.

3. Public Places

Everyone visiting cinemas, theaters, coffee shops, and similar places should be on the lookout for bed bugs. How do you get bed bugs in these common places?

Well, the seats’ warmth is perfect for the proliferation of bed bugs, since temperatures of around 80 °F are perfect for them.

Aside from biting you, they can lodge in your clothing, which is the easiest way for them to enter your home. Again, washing your clothes is the best way to avoid this.

4. Transport

Whether it’s a cab, bus, or your own car, as long as there are fabric areas, you might get bed bugs.

Even though they can be found on other surfaces as well, fabrics are the most common, as the bugs are great at hiding in them.

5. Other Homes

Because of the way they travel, pretty much anyone can bring bed bugs into a person’s home. Having guests over for a visit can result in an infestation.

The same can happen if you visit someone else’s home. As mentioned, bed bugs can live everywhere, so unless there’s pest control, there’s really no way to know if a home is infected.

This might sound scary, but the prevention isn’t hard. If someone sleeps over at your house, simply wash the sheets they slept on. Thanks to them being visible to the naked eye, you can always tell if your home is infested.

Aside from this, there are many other signs of bed bug infestation. Let’s take a look at some of them.

How to Know If You Have Bed Bugs?

The easiest way to identify a bed bug problem is by inspecting your bed closely. You might notice their shed skin, or the bugs themselves.

Other signs include:

Waking up with any itching areas that weren’t there when you went to sleep
Small bloodstains on pillowcases or sheets
Shed shells or fecal spots in common hiding places
A musty smell that the bed bugs’ scent glands produce
Dark stains on the joints of your mattress and bed frame.

Noticing any of these signs should be followed by immediate action. Over a period of 12-18 months, just one fertilized female could produce up to 500 eggs.

Can You Get Rid of Them?

The good news for all and especially those with a bed bug problem is that there are many things that can be done.

Should you notice bed bugs, here’s what you can do:

De-clutter your room – Even though bed bugs can live in any space, getting rid of clutter will ensure less hiding spots.
Do some vacuuming – Vacuum your furniture, mattress seams and sides, box springs, and even your windows and walls.
Wash Your Sheets – Put sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and bed skirts into your washer, followed by the dryer. Let them tumble dry for at least 30 minutes on high heat.

What about Pesticides?

Chemical treatment deserves special attention. The first thing that comes to the mind of most people that notice bed bugs is pesticides.

However, this might not be a good idea.

First of all, pesticides can cause a variety of health issues, such as nervous system damage and cancer.

In addition, pesticides might not be the most effective method of exterminating bed bugs. According to research, bed bugs are evolving and developing resistance to various common pesticides.

Unless you’re an expert, your safest bet is to call a pest control service. Trained and experienced professionals can make an accurate assessment of the level of infestation and find the most effective and safest method for getting rid of them.

The Takeaway

Identifying a bed bug infestation is very important. Bed bugs are more than just an annoyance, as they can cause issues far beyond discomfort and itchiness.

Since they feed on human blood, they can potentially be the vectors of a wide variety of infectious diseases.

Now that you’re familiar with all the risk factors, you’re one step closer to ensuring that this doesn’t happen to you.

If by any chance it already has, give the methods you see here a try. When all else fails, you can always contact pest control and get rid of bed bugs for good.

References:

http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/urban/bed_bug.htm
https://www.genome.jp/virushostdb/757355
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-01-08/good-morning-baltimore-orkin-says-your-city-is-a-bed-bug-mecca
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/bedbugs-myths-and-facts.page
https://www.invader.net/blog/how-common-are-bed-bugs
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4553552/
https://www.ct.gov/caes/lib/caes/documents/bed_bugs/april1113forum/bedbug_reproduction_and_behavior_forum_vii.pdf
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/news/20170410/bedbugs-building-resistance-to-more-insecticides
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/human-health-issues-related-pesticides
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3060893/

Health

6 Ways to Treat Canker Sore with Natural Remedy

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 22, 2018 Last Edited: November 20, 2018

Arch

Canker sores can be painful. And make eating or talking painful, too. They typically disappear on their own, but you may not want to wait for that.

But if your canker sore is in an awkward place, or doesn’t seem to heal, there are things you can do. They may not be miracle cures. However, they may alleviate some of the pain associated with it.

Keep reading to find out your options. At home, remedies may help ease pain and irritation. And some may also help speed the healing process up.

What Is a Canker Sore?

A canker sore is a small, shallow lesion that develops in your mouth. They may be on the soft tissue of your mouth or at the base of your gums. The formal name for them is aphthous ulcers, but unless you’re in the medical profession, they are usually referred to by the common name.

Canker sores are not cold sores. And as such, they aren’t contagious. Nor do they happen on the surface of your lips. If that’s where your sore is, you may have something else.

Symptoms

Most canker sores have a similar appearance. They are round or oval-shaped with a white or yellowish center. Additionally, they typically have a red, inflamed border around it.

The most common places to get canker sores are on your soft palate, inside your lips or cheeks, or at the base of your gums. A burning or tingling sensation may herald a sore a day or two before you actually see one appear.

There are 3 types of canker sores. Check out the symptoms below to figure out which one you may have:

Minor Canker Sores – Most Common

Usually small-sized
Oval-shaped with red along the edges
Healing time is 1 to 2 weeks without scarring

Major Canker Sores – Less Common

Maybe very painful
Larger and deeper than the minor types
Round-shaped with irregular edges if it gets large
Takes as long as 6 weeks to heal and may leave a lot of scarring

Herpetiform Canker Sores – Uncommon, but may develop later in life

Not caused by the herpes virus
Occur in clusters of sores that may merge into a larger one
Pinpoint size
Has irregular edges
Healing time is 1 to 2 weeks without scarring

Experts haven’t pinpointed the exact cause of canker sores. But there are a variety of factors that may help contribute to getting them. Some triggers may include:

Minor mouth injury such as rough brushing, biting the cheek, or sports accident
Sodium lauryl sulfate in mouth rinses and toothpaste
Food sensitivities to foods such as coffee, strawberries, nuts, eggs, spicy or acidic foods
Lacking certain nutrients like iron, zinc, folate, or vitamin B12
Allergic response to bacteria in the mouth
Hormonal shifts
Emotional stress
The same bacteria that causes peptic ulcers, Helicobacter pylori

Treatment Options

As mentioned before, canker sores usually go away on their own. But if you don’t want to wait, or it doesn’t seem to be going away fast enough, here are a few options for you to try:

Baking Soda or Salt

If you prefer to treat canker sore with natural remedy, you can try a mouth rinse. Salt or baking soda works wonders to relieve pain and speed up the healing process.

To make a rinse, simply dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda or salt into half a cup of warm water. Swish around your mouth making sure to coat the sore in the rinse. Do this for about 15 to 30 seconds and then spit out. You can use this rinse as often as needed throughout the day.

Honey

In addition, you can also try honey to reduce the pain, size, and redness of the sore. Honey is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. So it’s the perfect pairing for a mouth sore. It may help prevent possible secondary infections, too.

To use honey, simply apply it directly to the sore 4 times a day.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is good for many things. One of those things is healing and pain relief for canker sores. This naturally anti-inflammatory oil can be used directly on the sore. Apply generously and reapply the oil several times a day until the sore goes away.

Milk of Magnesia

If you have milk of magnesia in your cupboard, it is also a good option to use on canker sores. Milk of magnesia contains magnesium hydroxide which works as a laxative and an acid neutralizer. But if you apply it directly onto your sores, it coats it to give you a little pain and irritation relief. It may also change the pH balance in your mouth to prevent sores from thriving. Use a cotton swab and dab a little milk of magnesia directly onto the sore for up to 3 times a day.

Chamomile

In addition, if you have chamomile on hand, you can also use it on your canker sores. German chamomile has known antiseptic and anti-inflammatory abilities. So use a wet chamomile tea bag directly on your sore. Or you can try rinsing your mouth with the freshly brewed tea. Use either method 3 or 4 times a day until the sore heals.

Echinacea

Finally, you can try liquid Echinacea to help heal canker sores and even prevent them from forming. To use this home remedy, mix equal parts liquid Echinacea and warm water. Swish the mixture around your mouth for a couple of minutes. Afterwards, you can either spit it out or swallow it.

Additionally, you can also use freshly brewed Echinacea tea as a mouth rinse. You can repeat either treatment up to 3 times a day.

Final Thought

Canker sores can be annoying and make it difficult to talk or enjoy your favorite food. But you don’t have to suffer in silence. There are things you can do from the comfort of your own home. Try a few remedies out to find the right one for you.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/canker-sore/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370620
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/how-to-get-rid-of-canker-sores#baking-soda-rinse

Could Anticholinergics Be Making Your Fibromyalgia Worse?

Written By: Holly Case

Published Date: November 22, 2018 Last Edited: November 7, 2018

John

Medications are a common part of managing fibromyalgia. Most fibro patients find that medications don’t offer complete relief though they can make things at least a little better. But the downside of most medications is that they each come with their own set of side effects and some even carry risks.

What you might not know is that many medications prescribed to fibro patients are part of a potentially dangerous class of drugs called anticholinergics. When you take these drugs, particularly if you take multiple different ones, they can have a cumulative effect that makes you feel worse. Read on to find out what kind of drugs are anticholinergics and how you can recognize problems.

What Does Anticholinergic Mean?

Anticholinergics are a type of medication that blocks the hormones that control nerve impulses. Some of the more common uses for anticholinergics are to stop mucus, control muscle movements, and to slow down digestive disorders. People without chronic health problems might use anticholinergics to provide allergy relief, manage diarrhea, or treat overactive bladder.

What Kind of Drugs are in the Anticholinergic Category?

You might be surprised by the number of medications that are in the category called anticholinergics. Each medicine in that category is ranked with a score from 1 to 3, measuring the amount of impact the medication can have on cognitive effects. Some of the medications that are considered anticholinergics include the following:

Allergy medicine, including Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine), Claritin (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine). Note that these may be found in multi-drug combinations for sleep, like Tylenol PM.
Antidepressants, which may be prescribed off-label to fibro patients to help sleep or chronic pain. Some drugs in this category include Elavil (amitriptyline), Paxil (paroxetine), and Vistaril (hydroxyzine).
Anxiety relieving medications, such as Xanax (alprazolam)
Anti-diarrheal medicines, such as Imodium (loperamide)
Anti-nausea medicines, such as Phenergan (promethazine) and Antivert (meclizine)
Codeine and medications that use codeine as a compound. Synthetic versions of codeine like Norco or Vicodin do not seem to have the same anticholinergic effects, although they can still have side effects similar to anticholinergics.
Muscle relaxers, such as baclofen, Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine), and Soma (carisoprodol.)
Overactive bladder medicines, including Detrol (tolterodine)
Anti-psychotic medications such as Zyprexa (olanzaprine) which are often prescribed to help with sleep or in conjunction with antidepressants to help with treatment-resistant depression.

What are the Side Effects of Anticholinergic Medications

In recent years, researchers have issued warnings about the use of anticholinergic medications, particularly in the elderly. Studies suggested that anticholinergic medications could cause problems with dementia and memory loss in seniors. Many doctors will say that anticholinergic medications should not cause any problems, especially in younger and healthier individuals.

However, the side effects of anticholinergic medications can still have negative effects when people of any age take them. Medications in the anticholinergic category are commonly prescribed to people with fibromyalgia, often off-label. The drugs are prescribed to help with pain, anxiety, depression, and headaches. The most common side effects experienced when taking anticholinergics include the following:

Memory loss
Confusion
Drowsiness
Delirium
Sedation
Hallucinations
Blurred visions
Dry mouth
Difficulty with urination
Constipation

These medications are ranked by the strength of their anticholinergic effects. Older tricyclic antidepressants, for example, have a strong anticholinergic effect. Even though selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants have milder anticholinergic effects, they do still have this effect.

The more of these medications that you take in combination with each other, the more likely you are to experience side effects. They tend to compound one another for a cumulative effect.

How Do I Know if Anticholinergics are Making Me Worse?

Ironically, the same medications you’re taking to make you feel better could actually be making you feel worse. Muscle relaxers often have a rebound effect: they relieve your muscle pain at first but cause more intense pain as they start to wear off.

Although confusion and memory loss are concerns in elderly patients, there’s some evidence that younger patients can have the same effects, as well. Since that your medications could be affecting you include the following:

If you feel like you’re frequently confused
if you’ve noticed it’s more difficult to concentrate and focus
if you often feel disoriented

Talk to your doctor if you think your medications are causing these problems. Many doctors may not initially think these medications can cause problems, particularly in younger patients, although some younger people anecdotally report these experiences as well. Keep a log of your symptoms to share with your doctor, who can help you decide if your symptoms are medication side effects or due to other causes.

Have a discussion with your doctor if you want to see if you might feel better off of the medications. Make sure you look into how to safely discontinue them before quitting them cold turkey. Medicines such as benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Valium) can cause seizures if discontinued too quickly. Medications can help you but you should occasionally check to make sure they’re still having benefits.

Waterpik Water Flosser Review and Oral Hygiene Benefits

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 22, 2018 Last Edited: November 9, 2018

Arch

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), flossing is as important as brushing your teeth. What’s more, if you fail to floss or use another interdental cleaner regularly, there is a markedly greater risk of developing cavities and gum disease. However, not too many people can give an honest answer when a dentist asks them about their flossing habits.

Nowadays, water flossing is a significantly more convenient alternative to string flossing. Waterpik invented the first water flosser and this write-up is a Waterpik water flosser review encompassing four of the most popular Waterpik models.

Waterpik Water Flosser Review

Waterpik makes over a dozen models of water flossers grouped under Countertop, Cordless, Whitening, Complete Care, and the new Sonic-Fusion. The products range from professional to portable water flossers. More importantly, all Waterpik water flossers received the ADA’s seal of approval.

In addition, a research study confirms the oral hygiene benefits of Waterpik water flossers. If you are to look at the numbers, water flossers from this particular brand are about 30% more effective in plaque reduction compared to string flossing.

To find the best water flosser for you it pays to take a closer look at each of the product lines:

Waterpik WP-670 Aquarius Professional Designer Series

The WP-670 Aquarius Professional Designer Series is an update of the best-selling WP-660 Aquarius Professional to include even more finishes. There are now 6 color options.

The Waterpik WP-670 comes with seven different tips that can cover all of your oral hygiene needs. There is also a storage case to keep the tips secure when not in use. The water flosser comes with an advanced pressure control which has ten different settings for the most efficient flossing.

Another outstanding feature of this Waterpik is the pulse-modulation technology. The technology delivers custom-designed water pulsation to ensure the best flossing results. There are two different modes: Hydro-Pulse Massage Mode and Floss Mode.

Floss Mode is designed to enhance the plaque removal properties when flossing. The Hydro-Pulse Massage Mode, on the other hand, gives an improved stimulation of your gums. Overall, this is the most well-rounded Waterpik to date. It provides an all-encompassing dental care and one of the colors is bound to appeal to a given shopper.

Considering all of the premium features, you can expect this Waterpik to come with a premium price. However, if you factor in all of the advanced technology and the three-year warranty, this one is really worth the price.

Waterpik WP-100 Ultra Water Flosser

The WP-100 Ultra comes in 4 colors. It’s a countertop model and the water reservoir lasts more than 90 seconds of flossing. That’s 6 flosses assuming 15 seconds per session.

Included are six different tips to cover all of your regular dental hygiene needs. These tips work in perfect unison with the advanced pressure control system to deliver the plaque removal properties Waterpik is renowned for. Another thing that makes this series popular is the rather small form factor, apart from the more affordable pricing.

In addition, the Waterpik Ultra is also rather quiet, though you shouldn’t expect it to be completely silent. For better handling and usability, there’s a pause button on the handle.

In addition, the WP-100 Ultra features a 360-degree rotating tip that allows you to reach all of the difficult areas.

Waterpik WP-250 Nano Water Flosser

If you are looking for a compact and efficient water flosser, you can’t go wrong with the Waterpik Nano. It is designed to provide you with dental hygiene like other bigger Waterpik flossers.

The Nano water flosser comes with two flosser tips, which is less compared to the pricier models but the tips deliver equally competent performance. On the other hand, if you need some extra tips, you can get them separately because this series is compatible with four other Waterpik tips.

This compact water flosser also comes with a pressure control system. The system has three different settings for optimal performance, and unlike most other water flossers it can be used with the mouthwash of your choice. As mentioned above, this particular Waterpik model really excels in terms of compactness.

In addition, it also features a reservoir that can be inverted for easy transport and storage.

Waterpik WP-300 Traveler Water Flosser

It is easy to guess from the name that this water flosser is primarily designed for people who are constantly on the go (though you can also go with the cordless series). The Waterpik Traveler has all of the features an international traveler needs. It comes with a special carrying case and it is universal voltage.

To ensure your oral hygiene needs are met no matter where you are, the Waterpik Traveler comes with four different tips. The lid on the carrying case has a couple of straps to neatly store the tips when not in use. Like the Nano model, the Traveler also utilizes invertible reservoir that makes storing this water flosser a breeze.

In addition, there are three different pressure control settings to allow for the best plaque removal. This water flosser also delivers an ample flow rate of 13 ounces per minute. The water is delivered at 1400 pulses per minute to provide exceptional oral hygiene performance.

At only 0.99 pounds, the Traveler is also the most lightweight countertop water flosser from Waterpik which makes it easily transportable. If you desire something even lighter, Waterpik makes 5 models of cordless water flossers (you’d have to sacrifice the water storage capacity here).

To Wrap Up

This Waterpik water flosser review of the 5 most popular models should help you find the Waterpik that perfectly fits your flossing needs. You should know that water flossing does take some getting used to, but with Waterpik, the company that’s to water flossing like Kleenex to the facial tissue, you’ll get the hang of it in no time.

References:

https://www.ada.org/en/press-room/news-releases/2016-archive/august/statement-from-the-american-dental-association-about-interdental-cleaners
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/ada-seal-products/category-display/compare-products/product-report?productid=5405&company=Water+Pik%2c+Inc.&category=Powered+Interdental+Cleaners
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24282867

In Search for a Nymphomaniac Definition – Are You Classified?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 21, 2018 Last Edited: November 9, 2018

Arch

Sexual disorders and their exact definitions are among the most hotly debated topics among experts. In general, it is understood that hypersexuality may come on its own or be a life-changing symptom of other disorders. Those who suffer from bipolar disorder or Kluver-Bucy syndrome often display symptoms of promiscuous behavior.

But as mentioned in the previous paragraph, nymphomania (or compulsive sexual behavior) does not necessarily have to be a part of some other mental disorder. In addition, the diagnoses of and treatments for this particular disorder have changed drastically since it first appeared in the literature in the 18th century.

This is why it pays to have a closer look at the history of the condition and its symptoms.

Nymphomania – A Brief History of Disagreement

Although the term nymphomaniac first appeared in the 18th century, it reached the psychiatric practice in the late 19th century. At that time, the term loosely referred to an overly sexual woman. To make matters worse, it did not actually reflect any real medical condition but rather the prevalent societal norms regarding female sexual behavior.

In keeping with the 19th century Zeitgeist that disregarded any liberation of the female spirit and rights, the treatments for nymphomania were brutal. Not to mention the gruesome surgical procedures and remedies which included the vaginal application of cocaine or borax. Luckily, most of the developed societies have a completely different view of female sexuality today.

A few hundred years and liberation movements later, there is now a completely different understanding of nymphomania. In fact, nymphomania was removed from the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder back in 1980. To put things in perspective, masturbation, homosexuality, and oral sex were also removed at the same time.

However, the question of how to define nymphomania in the 21st century still lingers. Admittedly, there are much clearer boundaries and symptoms that might be defined as a nymphomaniac.

Nymphomaniac Definition – Are You Classified? Or Is It Something Else?

Nowadays, nymphomania may be defined as a mental disorder that is associated with compulsive sexual behavior. To have an understanding of who can be regarded as a nymphomaniac, you should have a clear idea of compulsions.

By definition, compulsive behavior includes rituals or deliberate actions people repeatedly engage in without any control over them. Sometimes compulsions can be related to unreasonable fears and anxiety, but this is not always the case.

Compulsions are associated with a broad spectrum of mental disorders. However, in relation to nymphomania, they refer to an insatiable drive to engage in a sexually promiscuous behavior. An excessive appetite for pornography, obsessive erotic thoughts, and an abnormal impulse to masturbate can also be regarded as nymphomaniac.

On the other hand, scientists still disagree about whether this kind of promiscuous behavior should be regarded as a singular disorder. Adding to the overall confusion is that none of the 12 listed sexual disorders include nymphomania or other hypersexuality conditions.

To answer the question, a respectable psychiatrist or therapist would find it hard to classify a patient as a nymphomaniac. The debates continue in the medical community as to whether it should be accepted as a sexual disorder. But this disagreement doesn’t mean that hypersexuality does not exist in one form or another.

What Causes Nymphomania or Hypersexual Behavior?

Unfortunately, the exact causes that lead to abnormal promiscuity and obsessive sexual behavior are still largely unknown. And like other mental disorders, nymphomania should probably be viewed as a complex emotional and mental condition that can be triggered by various factors.

There are some indications that nymphomania is connected to brain chemical imbalance or even comes as a hereditary disorder. The fact that illicit drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine induce an increased sexual drive goes in the favor of the chemical imbalance theory. However, more research is needed to confirm either of the claims.

Some Alzheimer’s patients also show no sexual inhibitions due to changes in the frontal and temporal lobe. Of course, those who are unfortunate to be afflicted by this debilitating condition aren’t labeled as nymphomaniac by any means.

On the other hand, hypersexuality or nymphomania might also be caused by the environment and psychological trauma. In those cases, it would be viewed as a part of other mental disorders rather than a singular condition.

Is There a Treatment for Nymphomania?

If you accept nymphomania as an unofficial term for hypersexual behavior then it is safe to assume there is a way to cure it. Before the treatment for hypersexual behavior begins, all other neurological and medical disorders that can cause hypersexuality need to be ruled out.

Once they are ruled out, there are three different ways to treat nymphomania:

1. Psychological Treatment

Those who struggle with compulsive sexual behavior show some improvement after psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy. However, the study groups were relatively small to draw any conclusive scientific evidence, though the patients did show improvement.

Another psychological approach that is beneficial to those who suffer from compulsive hypersexual behavior is group therapy. This approach helps the patients feel less shameful and isolated due to their condition. And since the patient’s promiscuity may affect the whole family, couples and family therapies might also be included.

2. Pharmacological Treatment

A limited research study has shown that some prescription drugs can have a positive effect on hypersexual behavior. Patients who took citalopram, for example, experienced an inhibited sexual desire and less compulsion to masturbate and watch pornography. However, the drug didn’t seem to affect the number of partners the recipients engaged with.

Naltrexone – used for other compulsive conditions like kleptomania – was also effective in reducing compulsive sexual behavior. The bottom line is that there is still more research to be done before experts define the most successful pharmacological treatment.

3. Anonymous Groups

Support groups like Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) and Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA) provide aid and comfort to those who struggle with compulsive sexual behavior. The Twelve Step program of Alcoholics Anonymous fame can be adapted to lead the afflicted to recovery. However, the effectiveness and rebound rate data are still very limited.

Endnote

As you may assume, it might be hard to give a definitive nymphomaniac definition. Are you classified as a sex addict, obsessive-compulsive, or just overreacting? Either way, if you feel that your sexual behavior is far beyond what is considered acceptable, you should seek counseling, to begin with.

References:

https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/kluver-bucy-syndrome/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18075842
https://theconversation.com/what-makes-a-woman-a-nymphomaniac-20306
https://www.jstor.org/stable/3812739?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents
https://www.ocduk.org/ocd/compulsions/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2945841/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4500883/

How to Spot and Treat Gonorrhea Symptoms in Women

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 21, 2018 Last Edited: November 9, 2018

Arch

Gonorrhea is, unfortunately, one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. It is caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium and one of the worst things about it is that a lot of the infected people don’t show any symptoms.

It particularly affects people in their late teens and 20s. And owing to some of the symptoms that do manifest, it has earned such notorious nicknames as “the drip” or “the clap”. If diagnosed in time, gonorrhea can be successfully treated with antibiotic therapies. Otherwise, the bacteria can be the cause of some more serious health problems and even lead to infertility.

What Are Gonorrhea Symptoms in Women?

Unlike men, most women who contract gonorrhea don’t display any symptoms upon contracting the bacteria. However, if the symptoms do occur, the first ones appear in about seven days after the infection and they include:

Vaginal Discharge

The vaginal discharge in case of gonorrhea is usually yellow and higher than usual. Though it does not have to be too severe, you should get tested as soon as there is some suspicion.

Irregular Vaginal Bleeding

Women who experience vaginal bleeding that is not related to their periods might have contracted gonorrhea. If the bleeding happens after vaginal intercourse, you should set up an appointment with your gynecologist to potentially rule out this infection.

Painful Sexual Intercourse

Another common gonorrhea symptom is painful intercourse. If you feel an increased discomfort and pain which may be coupled with some of the abovementioned symptoms, it may point to gonorrhea.

Pain in the Lower Abdomen

The pain in the lower abdomen usually starts in the pelvis, but without treatment it can spread to the stomach. In some severe cases, it can also cause vomiting and nausea.

On the other hand, gonorrhea symptoms may not be limited to the vaginal and lower abdomen regions. They can also appear in the rectal area and manifest in the following:

Rectal Discharge

Similar to vaginal discharge, the rectal discharge in those affected by gonorrhea might be pus-like and yellowish.

Bloody Feces

Bloody toilet tissues coupled with increased straining while defecating can be a signal of rectal gonorrhea infection.

Itchy Anus

Abnormal itching of the anal region is also among the common gonorrhea symptoms in women. Particularly if the itching comes with other rectal or vaginal symptoms listed above.

Other Regions That Can Be Affected by Gonorrhea

Since gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease, the symptoms commonly occur in the rectal and vaginal area. However, the virus can affect the throat, eyes, and joints as well.

The signs of the infection in the throat are usually mild and can often be mistaken for a common sore throat. In some cases, gonorrhea in the throat can manifest in swollen neck lymph nodes. If the infection spreads to the eyes, the afflicted usually experiences light sensitivity, pain, and discharge.

Septic arthritis occurs when the Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection reaches joints in your body. Compared to some other symptoms and afflicted areas, this is quite rare and severe. Those who suffer from septic arthritis have extremely painful, swollen, and worm joints.

How Is Gonorrhea Contracted?

Women, as well as men, contract gonorrhea by engaging in unprotected intercourse with an affected person. The bacteria spread via semen and pre-ejaculate fluid. It can also be found in vaginal fluids, inside the mouth, genitals, and anus.

Consequently, the primary ways of contracting gonorrhea are oral, anal, and vaginal sex. It is worth noting that the bacteria can be transmitted even without full anal or vaginal penetration. On the other hand, you can also get gonorrhea if your hand is contaminated with the infected fluids and you touch your eyes with it.

However, there is no way to get gonorrhea through casual contact. You are in no danger if you kiss, hug, hold hands, or even share food with the infected person. What’s more, there is no need to worry if the infected person sneezes or coughs in your presence since gonorrhea is not an airborne disease.

Treatment of Gonorrhea Symptoms in Women

If you are diagnosed with gonorrhea, you need to follow the prescribed antibiotic therapy to the T. You mustn’t discontinue the medication even if the symptoms go away after just a few days since the infection would still be lingering in your body. It is also important to ask your partner to get tested to prevent possible recurring infections.

In addition, you need to abstain from sex for a week after you finish with the medication (if you are prescribed only one course). After you’re done with the prescribed treatment, you should get tested again in about three months to ensure there is no leftover infection.

You should know that gonorrhea is not a one-time infection. Even if you are treated and get rid of the bacteria completely, there is a possibility to contract it again. This is why it is important to employ prevention methods.

How to Prevent Gonorrhea?

Prevention is the best way to fight this annoying infection, even though some of the prevention methods might not be your cup of tea. Some of the common prevention methods include:

Using a Condom

To be 100% sure of not contracting gonorrhea is to abstain from sex. If not, use a condom regardless of the sex act. As you know, condoms significantly reduce the chances of getting most STDs, including gonorrhea.

Look for Symptoms

Men experience gonorrhea symptoms more often than women, and the symptoms are very similar. If you partner complains of burning sensation while urinating or displays other symptoms like the ones described above, you shouldn’t engage in intercourse.

Undergo Screening

Regular screenings for STDs are recommended for sexually active women. Especially those who recently changed partners or have an increased risk of infection. Remember that gonorrhea can be treated quite effectively if diagnosed early, so there is no need to dread the screening.

The Final Drop

This write-up should help you have a greater understanding of gonorrhea symptoms in women and encourage you to seek treatment as soon as you become suspicious. Unfortunately, gonorrhea and other STDs have become quite widespread so it pays to be extra vigilant to ensure the health of your reproductive organs.

References:

https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/gonorrhea
https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Chlamydia-Gonorrhea-and-Syphilis?IsMobileSet=false
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2006/0515/p1786.html

Fibromyalgia Holiday Gift Guide 2018

Written By: John

Published Date: November 20, 2018 Last Edited: November 21, 2018

John

Welcome to our yearly holiday gift guide for people with Fibromyalgia and other chronic, invisible illnesses. We want to take some of the stress out of holiday shopping (stress being a huge trigger for flare-ups!) and give you a ready-made list to send to Santa (and/or, of course, your loved ones who are dying to spoil you).

Happy holidays and happy shopping. Remember that some of these items may even be on sale during Cyber Monday.

Weighted Blanket

We’ve been hearing a lot recently about the benefits of a weighted blanket for people with fibromyalgia. People use them to relieve anxiety, get better sleep, and relieve pain, and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

Noise Cancelling Headphones or Earbuds

Need some peace and quiet? Get some with this selection of noise cancelling earbuds and headphones. Listen to your favorite music or meditation app or just enjoy the sweet, sweet silence.

Fibro Awareness Gear

Pick up some of this gear and turn yourself into a walking Fibromyalgia Awareness billboard. We know it’s an invisible disease so let’s give it some visibility.

Pain Relieving Ointments

Rub away the aches and pains of fibromyalgia in your joints and muscles with some of these topical ointments and creams.

Common Fibro Supplements

There are tons of good supplements out there that can help reduce flare-ups and provide relief from the pain. Here are some good ones.

Manual Massage Tools

Whether you want to give yourself some myofascial release or deep-tissue therapy, theres’s something for you in this list.

Electric Massage Tools

From Shiatsu to TENS, there’s something on this list for everyone.

Over the Counter Pain Relievers

I know, it’s not exciting, but everyone needs these in their medicine cabinets. Would make a great stocking stuffer for the person with chronic pain in your life. A lot of these are easy opening for people with hand pain.

CBD Oil and Supplements

This legal hemp product can help with chronic pain, sleep, endurance, anxiety, depression, inflammation, muscle spasms, overall mental health and well-being, mood, and more.

Essential Oil Diffusers and Oils

Essential oils can provide calming and relief after stressful days. We found an array of therapeutic oils and some affordable diffusers.

Body Pillows

Sleeping can be hard with fibro, and if you’re in pain or uncomfortable it can be hard to find a good position. Check out these body pillows.

Skin Relief Creams and Ointments

Psoriasis and Excema and other skin rashes are common with fibro. We found a selection of skin relief products specifically formulated to heal skin issues.

Heating Pads

Ease the aches and pains of fibro and arthritis with gentle heat from one of these heating pads.

Bath Soak Products

Find relief in a relaxing bath. From bath bombs to Epsom salts to aromatherapeutic bubbles baths, there’s something for everyone.

Health

Thick White Discharge – What Does It Mean?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 20, 2018 Last Edited: November 9, 2018

Arch

Seeing a creamy white discharge might be very unpleasant or even scary if you haven’t noticed it before. However, in most cases, there’s no need to panic. This is a completely normal part of vaginal health, so there’s not much reason for concern.

Still, this can sometimes be a sign of an underlying problem. So, how do you know whether it’s time to pay your gynecologist a visit? Keep reading to find out.

What Is It?

This discharge is known as leukorrhea, and it’s a sign that you’re ovulating. Not only is this completely normal, but it can also be great news if you’re trying to get pregnant, as it signifies that it might be the right time to conceive.

If it’s a couple of days before you start ovulating, the discharge might look thin and slimy. This usually happens when the egg gets released. As you get closer to ovulation, the discharge starts to thicken and becomes mucus-like during ovulation.

Once the mature egg gets released down the fallopian tube, one enters the so-called luteal phase. This is a post-ovulation period that lasts until the start of the menstrual cycle.

During this period, one might notice that the discharge changes its color and consistency. Since it consists of fluid and old cells that are being removed from the vagina, it might even look yellowish. The discharge consistency depends on the dominant hormone of the time.

During the luteal phase, progesterone reaches its peak and the discharge might look white or cloudy. Estrogen, on the other hand, produces a clear and watery discharge, which usually occurs before ovulation.

What Causes It?

There are multiple causes of thick white discharge. Aside from the normal reproductive system function, there are two other common reasons why it might happen:

Pregnancy – White discharge that occurs before the menstrual cycle can be a sign that the person is pregnant. There’s really no way to tell whether this is the case, or if the reproductive system is just doing its job, since both kinds of discharge look almost exactly the same. Still, in some cases, pregnancy-related discharge can look creamier and thinker than usual.
Birth Control – Contraceptive methods cause changes to hormone levels. This change in progesterone and estrogen might cause vaginal discharge. When this happens, don’t panic, as this is a common side effect of birth control.

In both of these situations, the thick white discharge is a normal occurrence that means that the reproductive system is working the way it should.

However, there are cases where this might be a sign that there’s something wrong. Let’s take a look at the most common ones.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial Vaginosis is a fairly common vaginal infection. It occurs when there’s an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. In a majority of cases, it’s harmless and can be treated easily without any long-term effects.

The direct cause is still unknown, but there are some factors that the experts believe play an important part. These include having multiple sexual partners over a short period of time, smoking, and douching.

So how does one know whether the discharge is caused by bacterial vaginosis? Luckily, there’s an easy way to tell. The first symptom is that the discharge is greyish in color. It will also be thin and watery, even if the pre-ovulation phase has ended. Lastly, you might notice a fishy smell that grows stronger after sexual intercourse.

If you notice any of the above signs, it might be a good idea to visit a gynecologist. Until this happens, it’s important that you don’t make the situation worse. Here’s what to avoid:

Bubble baths and perfumed soaps
Smoking
Strong detergents for your underwear
Vaginal deodorants and similar products

Yeast Infection

Have you noticed clumpy, thick white discharge? What does it mean? Well, in most cases, yeast infection is the underlying cause. However embarrassing and uncomfortable it might be, it’s another very common occurrence, which around three-quarters of women will notice at least once in their lifetime.

It happens when a fungus known as Candida albicans starts spreading. It can happen out of nowhere, but the use of strong antibiotics is known to be a risk factor.

If you develop a yeast infection, you might want to abstain from sexual intercourse for as long as you’re receiving treatment. Treatment is often in the form of over-the-counter solutions, but prescription medication can also be used but only in more serious cases.

When to See a Doctor

As long as the discharge is white or yellowish and odorless, there’s a high chance that everything is normal. On the other hand, you might want to call a doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:

Discomfort
Itching
Sores or rashes
Bleeding
Strong, unpleasant odor that doesn’t go away
Missed period
Burning sensation during urination and sexual intercourse

The vagina does a good job of preventing future infections without the need for any action. A discharge is a normal part of this, as it washes out germs and bacteria that can causes diseases. However, if the discharge has any of the above characteristics, you should seek medical help.

The Bottom Line

Generally, thick white discharge isn’t something to stress about, as it contributes to the overall vaginal health. It maintains optimal pH balance while fulfilling a mechanism of removing dirt, bacteria, and any other harmful microorganisms and substances.

To ensure you don’t get an infection, maintaining good hygiene is paramount. Other than that, there’s really not much to do, as the reproductive system has a great self-defense mechanism.

But if any abnormal symptoms accompanying the thick white discharge, the advice is to always pay a visit to the GP or gynecologist to find an underlying cause. Most of the time, it won’t be anything serious, but it’s always a good idea to get rid of any issues as soon as possible.

Resources:

http://americanpregnancy.org/getting-pregnant/understanding-ovulation/
https://www.verywellhealth.com/luteal-phase-of-the-menstrual-cycle-3522712
https://www.hormone.org/hormones-and-health/hormones/progesterone
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/277177.php
https://www.netdoctor.co.uk/ask-the-expert/sex-faqs/a11291/is-the-pill-causing-my-vaginal-discharge/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/
https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/understanding-vaginal-yeast-infection-basics

Health

Dumping Syndrome – What Is It, and How Serious Can It Be?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 19, 2018 Last Edited: November 9, 2018

Arch

If you’ve recently undergone any sort of gastric surgery, you should know everything about the dumping syndrome. So what is it? Commonly referred to as rapid gastric emptying, it occurs when food passes through your gastrointestinal system too quickly. More specifically, it goes from the stomach to the duodenum in an unusually short period of time.

This happens with most foods but is most prominent with sugar-rich foods. So how serious is it and is there something you can do about it? Read on to find answers to these questions.

What Causes It?

Gastric surgery is a direct cause of dumping syndrome. Moreover, any kind of surgery that alters the way food passes through the stomach can lead to this issue. Here are the most common types of surgery that can cause this:

Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)

Used as a weight loss solution, gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that reduces one’s stomach to effectively a small pouch. It’s then connected to the small intestine, a measure that prevents one from overeating. The swallowed food enters the pouch-size stomach and travels directly to your small intestine, thereby bypassing a large part of your stomach and the first portion of your small intestine.

This is a common procedure that is needed in case diets and exercise couldn’t help an obese person to lose weight. It could be a necessary procedure if excess weight poses a major health risk.

Gastrectomy

Gastrectomy is another common cause of dumping syndrome. What is it? It’s a procedure where parts or all of your stomach is removed to treat a serious health issue. This includes esophageal cancer, non-cancerous tumors, and obesity that has reached a life-threatening point.

The main types of gastrectomy are:

Partial gastrectomy – Involves the removal of a part of one’s stomach (usually the lower half).
Total gastrectomy – A procedure to remove one’s entire stomach.
Sleeve gastrectomy – Often a part of weight loss surgery, this procedure involves the removal of the left side of one’s stomach.

Contrary to popular belief, you can still have a functioning digestive system even if your entire stomach is removed. You won’t lose your ability to digest foods and liquids, but of course, it will be impaired. The level of impairment can vary according to the type of gastrectomy, but in most cases some lifestyle changes are enough to ensure a functioning digestive system.

Open Esophagectomy

Part of the digestive system, the esophagus is in charge of transporting food to the stomach. Open esophagectomy involves the removal of a part of the esophagus. It is used to treat life-threatening conditions such as esophageal cancer, severe damage to the stomach, or achalasia.

This is a very serious procedure that can significantly alter a person’s lifestyle. Among these changes are the ones related to food digestion.

Now that you know the main causes of dumping syndrome, it’s time to learn how to recognize it.

Symptoms of Dumping Syndrome

Dumping syndrome is divided into early and late. The difference is in the time it takes for one to notice the symptoms after a meal. Early dumping syndrome often occurs right after eating, but it can also be 10-30 minutes after a meal. The symptoms include:

Sweating
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal cramping
Diarrhea
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Dizziness
Weakness
Uncomfortable fullness or bloating after a meal

Late symptoms usually occur one to three hours after a meal. Hypoglycemia is the main cause of these symptoms, which include:

Weakness
Dizziness
Fatigue
Confusion
Hunger
Shaking or tremors

The early and late symptoms aren’t mutually exclusive, so a patient can have both of them. Even though they can be quite uncomfortable and scary, they’re not life-threatening and should subside with time.

Diagnosis

If you notice any of the above symptoms after a gastric surgery, visit a doctor for a follow-up. There are three main methods that doctors use to see whether you’re suffering from dumping syndrome:

Medical history – If you’ve had gastric surgery, your doctor will ask you about the reasons for it, any relevant health conditions, and the outcome. They will then assess your symptoms to see whether they fit the disease.
Blood sugar test – As mentioned, dumping syndrome is often related to hypoglycemia. This is why the doctor might measure the patient’s blood sugar levels at the peak of the symptoms.
Gastric Emptying Scan (GES) – During this exam, the patient eats a meal that contains a radioactive substance under the control of a radiologist. They’ll then scan the stomach to track the pass-through speed of the radioactive material.

Treatment Options

Most cases of dumping syndrome don’t require any medical attention. They usually go away on their own, and a couple of dietary changes can help ease them. Here are some changes that you can make:

Including more fiber in your diet
Avoiding sugary foods and drinks
Not drinking any fluids 30 minutes prior and after a meal
Eating a couple of smaller meals instead of a few large ones
Chewing your food fully before you swallow it

You might also want to discuss taking supplements with your doctor. There’s a chance that your body will have a harder time absorbing the nutrients from food, so supplements might be a good idea.

If dietary changes don’t yield results, your doctor might give you some medications. These might some anti-diarrheal drugs, which can help with other symptoms as well.

If all else fails, surgery might be needed. This is reserved for the most severe cases and usually involves a reconstructive surgery, such as pyloric reconstruction.

The Final Word

Most cases of dumping syndrome are nothing to worry about. This is just a normal aftermath of gastric surgery which shouldn’t cause any further issues.

However, if it persists, you should consult your doctor, as there are other complications associated with gastric surgery that you might want to rule out. If the symptoms don’t subside after dietary changes, make sure to discuss other options with your doctor.

References:

https://www.britannica.com/science/duodenum
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/gastric-bypass-surgery/about/pac-20385189
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gastrectomy/
https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/picture-of-the-esophagus
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/surgery/esophagectomy-open
https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/achalasia/
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hypoglycemia-low-blood.html
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/443053
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/471952_5

5 Best Water Flossers for a Perfect Smile

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 19, 2018 Last Edited: November 19, 2018

John

We all know that brushing our teeth is an essential part of oral hygiene. But what about flossing? According to statistics, less than a third of the US population floss on a daily basis. About a third don’t do it at all.

This is a mistake, since brushing your teeth isn’t enough to ensure the removal of all food particles that cause bacteria growth. A toothbrush, no matter how advanced, can’t reach the crevices between your teeth, which is why flossing is necessary if you really want to get rid of all the plaque.

However important, flossing is fairly inconvenient. This is in reference to the traditional string flossing, of course.

Luckily, there’s a much easier solution, and it’s water flossing. It’s billed as much better job at removing plaque and a lot easier to use. If you’re looking to get into it, here are some of the best water flossers out there:

1. Waterpik WP-660 Aquarius Professional Water Flosser

Waterpik came up with the first water flosser in 2004. Since then, like Kleenex and Band-Aid, Waterpik/water picking is sometimes used interchangeably with water flosser/flossing.

The Waterpik WP-660 was the first water flosser to be endorsed by the ADA (American Dental Association). It carries the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance. Having this in mind, you can see why it’s the first product on our list of the best water flossers on the market.

Clinical trials showed that it’s 51% more effective than string flossing, thanks to its ability to remove 99.9% of plaque. It also helps reduce bleeding and gingivitis much better than the traditional option. It features seven different tips, which ensure a very deep clean.

If you’re looking for your first water flosser, you can’t really go wrong with this one. To learn more about it, visit this page.

2. Panasonic EW1211 Oral Irrigator

For decades now, Panasonic has been delivering amazing appliances that make our lives easier. This water flosser is no exception.

The first thing that draws attention is its portability. Instead of bulky parts, it has the footprint of an electric toothbrush. You can just put it in your bag and carry it with you wherever you go.

Another neat feature is the two-jet function. You can choose between ‘Jet Mode’ and ‘Air in Jet Mode’. The first one is a regular jet of high-pressure water that shoots between your teeth to remove plaque. The second option mixes water with air to ensure deep cleaning of periodontal pockets. It also does a great job of keeping your gums clean.

Due to the size, the water tank isn’t big, or around 35 seconds of usage. It is enough to ensure a good clean. To find out more about the Panasonic EW1211, click here.

3. H2ofloss HF-7

The H2ofloss HF-7 is one of the latest products from the HF line which has gained a ton of popularity. This is one of the most capable water flossers out there, so it’s definitely worth taking a look at.

First of all, it has a huge water reservoir of 1,000ml. This ensures that you can take your time to clean your teeth and gums thoroughly. The reservoir can also be inverted so that you can take the device with you when you’re traveling.

There are six different pressure settings, along with five multi-purpose jet tips. This allows the HF-7 to perfectly match the needs of pretty much all users.

This version is also designed to be quiet and prevent any leakage that would damage the device and put the user at risk of injuries.

There’s also a Premium version with six additional jet tips, 360-degree rotation, and a variety of other high-end features. To look up both version of the HF-7, visit this page.

4. Oral-B OxyJet Irrigator

Pretty much everyone has heard of Oral-B. The company that popularized the electric toothbrush has entered the fray of water flossing.

The OxyJet irrigator showcases Oral-B’s innovative approach to water flossing. It infuses oxygen in water to create millions of micro-bubbles that do an amazing job of removing food particles and plaque from your teeth. It’s also extremely effective at cleaning along your gum lines, as well as all other parts of your teeth that you can’t reach with your toothbrush.

It holds enough water for two whole minutes of flossing, which happens to coincide with Oral-B’s recommended cleaning cycle with its electric toothbrushes. Thanks to the optimal pressure, you can safely use the OxyJet to clean implants, bridges, and orthodontics.

If you want to find out more about the OxyJet, check out Oral-B’s product page.

5. Philips Sonicare AirFloss Ultra

The AirFloss Ultra is an extremely powerful device that Philips designed for people that have a hard time getting themselves to floss.

It’s ergonomically designed and very simple to use. Just fill the tank with water or mouthwash, and the combination of liquid and air will blast away 99.9% of bacteria. Based on Philip’s internal lab study, the AirFloss Ultra is capable of ensuring healthier gums and teeth after no more than two weeks of daily use.

There are three burst modes – single, double and triple. Select the one that feels the most comfortable and hold the button for a continuous blast. The micro-droplet technology provides a deep clean, and you’ll be closer to healthier gums and teeth. To learn more about Philips’ solution, click here.

The Final Word

It goes without saying that water flossers are much more convenient than traditional string solutions. They’re far easier to use and do an amazing job of helping you maintain great oral hygiene.

There are many different options out there, but what you see here are some of the best water flossers that you can get your hands on. If they piqued your interest, check them out and find the best device for you.

References:

https://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2016-05-02/how-many-americans-floss-their-teeth
https://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/waterpik-water-flosser-first-in-its-class-to-earn-ada-seal
https://www.waterpik.co.uk/professional/clinical-research/pdfs/Comparison-String-Water-Floss-Reducing-Gingivitis-Plaque-BarnesCM-2005.pdf
https://www.waterpik.com/oral-health/products/dental-water-flosser/WP-660/
https://www.panasonic.com/uk/consumer/personal-health-care/oral-care/ew1211.html
http://www.h2ofloss.com/h2ofloss-products/hf-7/
https://www.oralb.com.au/en-au/products/oralb-professional-care-oxyjet
https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/HX8332_11/sonicare-airfloss-pro-ultra-interdental-cleaner

What Is Kombucha and Does It Live Up to Its Hype?

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 16, 2018 Last Edited: November 9, 2018

Arch

Kombucha used to be a niche beverage associated with health-conscious living.

It was first used in China around 200 B.C., before the recipe spread all across the globe. This beverage was likely brought to the US by Russian immigrants.

It became widely known in the US during the 1990s, and it was generally used as a homebrewed health drink that could improve the immune system. But it still wasn’t easy to get a hold of this beverage, and many people were skeptical of its effectiveness.

The public’s approach to kombucha went through a change over the past few years. Since 2015, kombucha has become widely available in supermarkets. People from all walks of life have discovered its effects.

But what does it really do? Here’s a brief guide that can help you decide if you want to join the ranks of kombucha enthusiasts.

Kombucha 101

Let’s start with the basics. What is kombucha?

Kombucha (or kombucha tea) is a fermented drink made with sugar, tea, yeast, and bacteria. It is somewhat alcoholic and tastes of vinegar. Properly fermented kombucha shouldn’t taste too sweet.

The fermentation comes from the so-called tea fungus or Manchurian mushroom. These terms don’t actually refer to a mushroom. A tea fungus is a symbiotic culture of yeasts and bacteria. The culture is also referred to as a SCOBY. The exact species of bacteria and fungus may vary from culture to culture, but their role remains the same.

How to Brew Kombucha

This colony is added to a jar of tea and sugar and then left to ferment for around 10 days. You cover it with a clean porous cloth to keep away insects. During the incubation period, the jar should be kept at 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

When the fermentation is complete, remove the cloth from your jar. A new SCOBY will have formed on the top of the fermented liquid. Now you should carefully remove this and store it in a different container along with a little of the fermented tea.

The remaining tea is then bottled. The fermentation process will continue to some extent even in the absence of a macrobiotic culture.

Where to Purchase Kombucha

The homebrewing process isn’t particularly complicated. However, there is always a chance that your new tea fungus will fail to grow. It takes a while to find the right proportions for your SCOBY, so your kombucha may end up too acidic at first. Some find the process inconvenient or unappealing.

Hence, you can opt for ready-made kombucha instead.

Not to mention that homemade kombucha comes with a risk of infection. It’s important to create a sterile environment for the fermentation process, and not everyone succeeds at it.

It might be better to go with the commercially bottled version instead. Compared to the nineties, bottled kombucha has become much easier to purchase over the last few years.

It’s also safer to buy this product than it used to be. In the summer of 2010, many retailers, including Whole Foods, stopped distributing this beverage because the alcohol levels were unregulated and unacceptably high. Today, kombucha manufacturers adhere to stricter standards that call for low alcohol levels.

How to Serve Kombucha

This drink is best served cold, ideally with ice and a slice of lemon. Note that bottled kombucha may have added sugar.

What Is Kombucha Good for?

Unfortunately, many people associate kombucha with fad diets and fake cures. This is because the drink has been linked to a wide variety of health treatments, and many of these claims are false. Kombucha doesn’t have miraculous life-changing properties.

At the same time, it is a refreshing beverage that can improve your overall health in a few different ways. Here’s a quick look at the scientifically-backed benefits of kombucha.

It Can Improve Your Digestion

This drink has probiotic properties, which means that it contains useful gut bacteria that can improve your digestion.

In a healthy digestive system, there exists a balance between useful and harmful gut bacteria. However, this can get disrupted by a host of factors such as stress, medications, and poor nutrition. People who have to take antibiotics are especially likely to have this balance disrupted.

Drinking kombucha regularly can help restore the balance in your gut bacteria. It can help you reduce gut inflammation, and some people even use kombucha for weight loss.

It Contains Antioxidants

Research shows that kombucha also has an antioxidant effect. This means that it can reduce the damage caused by free radicals in your body. In particular, it can reduce the levels of toxicity in the liver. This was proved through experimentation on rats.

Antioxidants can improve your immunity and protect your body from the signs of aging. Green tea is a very efficient antioxidant, so you can use it to brew your kombucha.

Green tea-based kombucha can help keep your blood sugar levels in check and may also improve your cholesterol levels. It may lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Some people drink kombucha to prevent heart disease, as rat studies have confirmed that it has a positive effect on cardiovascular health.

It Kills Harmful Bacteria

Since kombucha is rich in vinegar, it can help get rid of harmful microorganisms in your body. This greatly reduces your chances of developing a bacterial infection. Scientists have also shown that it could help your body combat the Candida yeast. Once again, you will get the best effect if you use green tea to make your kombucha.

Are There Any Risks?

When it’s properly prepared, there are no risks associated with consuming this beverage. But doctors say that over-fermented kombucha can be dangerous. It puts you at risk of fungal and other infections, so you may want to look up a few trusted brands of kombucha to be safe.

The Takeaway

Kombucha is well-loved for a reason – it really can improve your health. It’s also an energizing drink, and many finds its unique taste agreeable. However, there are limitations to take into account. If you don’t feel confident about preparing it at home, buying commercially-bottled kombucha is a good option.

References:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1541-4337.12073
https://www.forbes.com/sites/christinatroitino/2017/02/01/kombucha-101-demystifying-the-past-present-and-future-of-the-fermented-tea-drink/#ba8e6ea4ae24
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/kombucha-scoby
https://www.agriculture.pa.gov/consumer_protection/FoodSafety/manufacturing-packing-holding-distribution/Documents/Guidelines for brewing-bottling Kombucha.pdf
https://www.bevnet.com/news/2013/kombucha-crisis-fuels-progress/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24290641
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5079149/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11723720
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25856715
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1745-4514.2011.00629.x
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-538/kombucha

Find Out How to Get Rid of Cellulite Safely

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 16, 2018 Last Edited: November 9, 2018

Arch

Cellulite is also known as orange peel skin because of the lumpy texture. This condition is present in 80-90% of women. In men, cellulite is far less frequent and it’s distributed differently than in women. Cellulite predominately affects adults, but some children may have to deal with it too.

Even though it’s extremely widespread, people have various misconceptions around cellulite. Here is a quick overview of this condition and the best ways to remedy it.

What Exactly Is Cellulite?

As we age, our fat cells can pass through the connective tissue and pile up under the skin. The resulting dimples are called cellulite. Cellulite can form on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, and buttocks. It tends to be more spread-out on women, while men only have cellulite in the stomach area.

This formation of lumps is caused by a reaction between connective tissue and the fat stored underneath it. While not dangerous, cellulite can be unsightly and embarrassing. In some people, it leads to body image issues and a lack of self-confidence.

A Note on Cellulitis

It’s important to note that there is a significant difference between cellulite and cellulitis, as the two are easy to confuse. Cellulite is a harmless cosmetic concern, while cellulitis is a potentially dangerous infection.

A Note on the Severity of Cellulite

Experts have developed a severity scale based on the depth of the depressions in the skin.

Orange peel skin is a general term for this condition, but it’s also used specifically for mild cellulite. If you have mild cellulite, pinching your skin is the only way to make it show.

In the case of moderate cellulite, the skin appears somewhat draped, even when you’re not pinching it. This is also described as a cottage cheese texture in your skin. Severe cellulite is described as mattress-like for the always present linear depressions.

What Causes Cellulite?

Cellulite is often tied to obesity. However, studies show that thin people may have it as well, and there are overweight people who are free of this skin condition.

So, what are the main contributing factors to cellulite?

Genetics

Scientists have found that there is a genetic component to this skin condition. The tone and thickness of your skin impact your chances of getting cellulite.

Gender

Why are women much likelier to have cellulite than men?

The answer lies in the structure of the connective tissue, which is formed from a protein called collagen. In women, the collagen is arranged vertically, which makes it easier for the fat cells to get through. In men’s connective tissue, the collagen forms a crisscrossing structure instead.

It’s also worth noting that fat distribution is different between sexes. Since fat builds up around the abdomen in men, this is where they show cellulite. This is less noticeable than texture changes on the thighs.

Hormones

Your hormones have a strong impact on the formation of cellulite in your body. In particular, women’s estrogen levels impact the distribution of their fatty tissue. When estrogen levels drop, fat cells become larger, which can result in additional cellulite.

Insulin, noradrenalin, and other hormones impact cellulite formation as well.

Aging

The skin loses its elasticity with age, which makes cellulite development considerably likelier. Additionally, age affects the hormones produced in your body.

Lifestyle Choices

Poor circulation may contribute to the development of cellulite. People who live an active lifestyle have a better chance of preventing this condition.

A Look at Potential Remedies

The medical community is still working on how to get rid of cellulite for good. The following methods are both efficient and safe:

Shockwave Therapy

Here is a method that can help you get rid of cellulite for 2-6 months. This is a non-invasive procedure and it’s one of the most effective ways to treat this issue.

Massages

Massaging the problem areas on your body can help improve the circulation. You can do some simple massages at home, but your best option is to find a professional who can perform a deep massage on you instead.

You can opt for a technique that uses suction, such as Endermologie. In the short term, deep massages have a great effect on your skin. However, the long-term effects are yet to be proven.

Subcision

While this is an invasive procedure, the effects on your body are fairly mild. Research shows that subcision can bring extraordinary improvement. But this method is costly, and it is usually reserved for people who have moderate to severe cellulite. The effectiveness of this option lasts up to two years, and medical science is still working on better subcision methods.

Exercise

There are specially designed exercises that can help you treat cellulite. This method improves your circulation and reduces body fat. But exercise is also dependent on an increased liquid intake, reduced stress, and a better diet. These lifestyle factors could keep you safe from the development of additional cellulite lumps.

Methods That Are Considered Unsafe

Experts warn against using liposuction and mesotherapy. What do these procedures entail?

Liposuction means removing fat directly from the affected areas. But this fat removal isn’t always even, so there’s a chance you’ll end up with even deeper dimples. While liposuction is a safe procedure in general, it isn’t useful at getting rid of cellulite.

On the other hand, mesotherapy can be damaging to your health. In this case, the idea is to inject your skin with chemicals that break down fat cells. However, this is inefficient and can also lead to infections and painful skin rashes.

A Final Word

If you’re trying to decide how to get rid of cellulite, safety should be your first concern. There are a few simple medical procedures that can free you of this skin condition. For now, they are all temporary, and they can be overly expensive. Many people opt for home remedies instead, which means massages and an improved exercise regime.

It’s not always possible to prevent the formation of cellulite, as it is hereditary to an extent and dependent on your age. But keeping your weight down will reduce your chances of having to deal with this issue. If you don’t yet have to deal with cellulite, consider taking up a more active lifestyle as a preventive measure.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149465.php
https://www.livestrong.com/article/280435-cellulite-in-children/
https://www.livestrong.com/article/187154-cellulite-in-men/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/24018731_A_validated_photonumeric_cellulite_severity_scale
https://www.livestrong.com/article/176747-what-are-the-causes-of-severe-cellulite-in-thin-people/
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-cellulite-forever/
https://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/lose-weight/burn-fat/cellulite-causes/
https://www.womenshealthnetwork.com/skin-and-beauty/naturally-reduce-the-appearance-of-cellulite.aspx
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1468-3083.2000.00016.x
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2686339/
https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/19/1/27/225278
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5234561/
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/get-rid-of-cellulite#2-10

Television Personality Montel Williams: Multiple Sclerosis and the Talk Show Host

Written By: Arch

Published Date: November 15, 2018 Last Edited: November 15, 2018

John

Montel Williams is an award-winning, provocative TV personality and talk show host. Before he found fame, he also served for over two decades as an intelligence officer in the Navy. But that isn’t what makes his life so extraordinary.

In 1999, doctors gave a diagnosis that shook the world of Montel Williams. Multiple sclerosis affects nearly 1 million people in the United States. But that isn’t what makes Williams’ story so different.

You can get multiple sclerosis at any time in your life. However, Montel Williams was living with the disease for two decades before he received a formal diagnosis. Keep reading to find out his amazing story, as well as an overview of the disease.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis or MS is a disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. A protective sheath, called myelin, covers the nerve fibers. But for people who have MS, their own immune system attacks their myelin.

This can lead to a breakdown in communication between the rest of your body and your brain. And over time, MS can eventually cause permanent damage to the nerves themselves.

Signs and Symptoms of MS

How can you tell if you have MS? Unfortunately, the symptoms and signs vary from person to person. And it may depend on how much nerve damage a person’s sustained when they see a doctor. Some common symptoms an MS patient may exhibit are:

Numbness through the limbs, one side of the body at a time
Extended double vision
Losing some or all vision, one eye at a time
Pain or tingling in different parts of the body
Unsteady gait, lack of coordination, tremors
Electric shock sensations when moving the neck in certain ways
Tiredness
Slurred speech
Bladder and bowel function problems
Dizziness

Many people have a relapse-remit course of the MS disease. That means some patients may have symptoms for days or weeks. But the symptoms may improve or go away completely for months or years. This is called secondary-progressive MS.

Other patients, however, experience a gradual and steady onset of MS symptoms with no relapses. This type of MS is called primary-progressive MS.

Risk Factors

Anyone can get multiple sclerosis, but there are certain risk factors that may increase your chances. They include:

MS is commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 15 and 60.

Family history

Like many diseases, having a history of it increases the likelihood that you may develop it as well. It’s not inherited, but some believe there may be a genetic link to MS.

Gender

Women are more likely than men to get MS.

Race

People of Northern European descent are the most likely to get MS, while Asians, Africans, and Native Americans are the least likely.

Existing autoimmune diseases

You may be at a higher risk of developing MS if you already have certain diseases like Type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Climate

MS diagnoses are more likely if you reside in a place with temperate climates. That may include Canada, New Zealand, southeastern Australia, northern United States, and Europe.

Smoking

If you smoke, you are at higher risks of developing relapse-remitting MS.

In addition, there are no exact MS tests that your doctor can give you to diagnose the disease. Instead, they may take your history and perform a series of tests including blood tests, spinal fluid analysis, MRI, and evoked potentials like an EEG.

Treatments and Prognosis for MS

There is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but there are certain steps you can take to keep the symptoms at bay. Most treatments focus on slowing the progression of the disease as well as lessening the frequency of relapses.

Unfortunately, the exact cause is still unknown. So there are no preventative measures you can take to lessen your risks of getting MS. However, there are plenty of people with multiple sclerosis who continue to live rich, fulfilling lives without relapses.

The Trials of Montel Williams – Multiple Sclerosis Can’t Keep a Good Man Down

Montel Williams began having symptoms of MS in 1980 when he was just 22 years old. He had vision problems that the doctor didn’t associate with MS symptoms because back then, the common belief was that MS primarily affected Caucasian women.

He continued to exhibit symptoms on and off through his life. But it wasn’t until 1999 when the popular TV personality began exhibiting serious symptoms that he was finally diagnosed with MS. Did this life-changing diagnosis slow down Montel Williams? After a few months of despondency, he decided that the disease wasn’t getting the better of him.

Williams went public with the disease in the same year he was diagnosed. And he went on to establish the Montel Williams MS Foundation to raise money for more research into the disease.

Furthermore, he also released a couple of books that go further into his battle with MS. One also has diet and exercise tips that promote better health despite living with an incurable disease. The book called Living Well: 21 Days to Transform Your Life, Supercharge Your Health, and Feel Spectacular enjoyed a resurgence of popularity with a reprinting in 2008.

In addition, Montel Williams is a huge advocate for medical cannabis to manage MS symptoms. He worked on campaigns that helped pass legislation on medical marijuana in New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania.

In 2016, he started LenitivLabs, a medical cannabis-related company. And later in that same year, LenitivLabs teamed up with BAS Research to become the first licensed medicinal marijuana company in California that is primarily focused on research and manufacturing.

Final Thought

Can you keep a good man down? Not actor, motivational speaker, author, and philanthropist Montel Williams. Multiple sclerosis may have taken a toll on his body, but his positive attitude has inspired others with the disease.

Lastly, there’s no cure for this disease. And experts aren’t even sure what exactly causes it. But on-going research into MS may eventually yield answers. So, in the meantime, if you do have MS, take a page out of Montel Williams’ book and just take it one day at a time.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/facts-statistics-infographic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350269
https://www.everydayhealth.com/neurology/multiple-sclerosis/montel-williams-living-with-ms/
https://www.lenitivproducts.com/

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