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4 constipation mistakes that can be avoided
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4 constipation mistakes that can be avoided

Constipation occurs when a person has not passed regular stools or experiences painful passing of hard stools. One might also experience abdominal discomfort and bloating, two of the primary symptoms of constipation. There are multiple factors, from underlying health complications and side effects of prescriptions to changes in daily nutrition and lifestyle choices that impact the frequency and regularity of bowel movements. It is important to address and avoid these mistakes that can worsen constipation. Using excess laxatives Doctors suggest the use of laxatives for constipation relief as a temporary measure. One should never take laxatives in extremely high amounts. Such frequent use for bowel movements makes the body become overdependent on the prescription. There may come a time when the digestive tract will be rendered inactive and cannot promote bowels. Excessive laxative use can also make the stools watery and can cause diarrhea as a result. Eating too much fiber too quickly Fiber is good for digestion but it’s necessary to slowly increase its intake. It’s also crucial to understand the difference between soluble and insoluble fibers. Insoluble fibers found in whole grains and even some vegetables may worsen the symptoms of constipation like bloating and flatulence. Nutritionists suggest increasing soluble fiber intake gradually, allowing the body to get used to it.
4 most common allergies
health

4 most common allergies

A lot of people in our country struggle with allergies and hypersensitivities. It means their bodies react negatively when they come into contact with an allergen like specific foods or dust. The condition can have mild symptoms like hives and lip swelling that one can control easily or severe reactions like shock and fatal respiratory issues that need a visit to the doc. Learning about common allergies is the first step to managing them. Common allergies in the country Preventing allergies is always better than going through the hassle of treatment. People with this condition should do their best to recognize and avoid their allergy triggers. Here are some of the most common allergies to know about: Cow’s milk It is perhaps the most common and dangerous allergy that little kids and babies develop. Cow milk leads to allergic reactions in two to three percent of babies and toddlers in the nation. But one does not have to worry much because 90% of these little ones outgrow the issue by the time they turn three years old. When down with a cow milk allergy, the child may battle rashes, swelling, hives, and vomiting. In rare cases, it may even lead to a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.
6 common mistakes to avoid during period
health

6 common mistakes to avoid during period

Menstruation is a regular cycle of the reproductive system that is regulated by hormones. During menstruation, women shed the lining of the uterus mixed with blood and it is a cycle that repeats every month till menopause. During this cycle, many women experience pain and discomfort in the abdomen caused by menstrual cramps. So, it is imperative to pay attention to one’s daily routine and habits, and particularly avoid making these common mistakes during period. Having excessive tea or coffee Doctors suggest drinking coffee or tea to alleviate pain and menstrual cramp discomfort. However, consuming too much caffeine during period can trigger problems like high blood pressure and increased metabolic rate and may even induce stress. Caffeine is also a diuretic, meaning it will cause dehydration. So, it is necessary to have tea or coffee in moderation. Delaying changing menstrual products Changing sanitary pads or tampons regularly is the best way to maintain good hygiene and prevent bacterial infections from flaring up during menstruation. So, never delay changing menstrual products if the flow is too heavy or it has been more than four hours since the last use. Not drinking enough water Drinking water can naturally help alleviate cramps and better manage period pain.
3 questions to ask an oncologist
health

3 questions to ask an oncologist

According to statistical data, nearly 40% of women and men will be diagnosed with cancer at some point. Such statistical evidence indicates that cancer treatment is the need of the hour in the country. Today, several interventions have been developed to help patients overcome cancer. Timely diagnosis can facilitate better treatment response, aiding in recovery. Here are some important questions that patients may find embarrassing but must ask their oncologists to have a better understanding of the condition: What stage of cancer do I have? One of the most crucial questions to ask an oncologist upon cancer diagnosis is what stage of cancer is one in. Most cancers have four stages. The first stage is the most preliminary one, wherein cancer has not begun spreading to other areas of the body. In the second stage, cancer has grown but has not begun spreading to other areas. The third stage involves the spread of cancer to other tissues and lymph nodes, while the fourth stage is where cancer spreads to other body organs. It is imperative to ask the oncologist the stage of cancer one has and the extent to which it has spread in the body. Such information can help patients understand the course and intensity of treatment that may be required.
6 unusual questions to ask a gynecologist
health

6 unusual questions to ask a gynecologist

Despite modern times, some women still feel embarrassed to ask questions about their reproductive health to the gynecologist for fear of being judged. But to achieve optimal vaginal health, being honest with one’s gynecologist is essential. By clearly discussing one’s issues, individuals can better understand their body and allow the doctor to give the proper treatment or advice if needed. Here are some common but potentially awkward questions worth asking to encourage this vital conversation. Why is intercourse painful? Some women may experience painful sex and deduce that that’s how it is, but the act is supposed to be pleasurable. There may be several reasons why one experiences pain, from lack of lubrication and arousal to low libido or discomfort due to a cyst. So, discussing one’s concerns openly is best to find a suitable solution. How can I feel more comfortable stripping down for my visit? Visiting a gynecologist may require one to strip down, which can be awkward, especially for the first time. Most doctors are mindful of the problem and may have initial conversations to ease the patient. But one can always ask for ways to find more comfort. Should I wait for my period to end before booking an appointment?
5 early warning signs of poor blood circulation
health

5 early warning signs of poor blood circulation

Blood circulation is a vital process that ensures the continuous flow of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. It keeps all bodily organs functioning, ensuring optimum health. However, certain health conditions, including peripheral artery diseases and high blood pressure, can disrupt circulation. In such cases, the essential nutrients may not reach some body parts. It is when people experience certain warning signs that indicate that their blood circulation needs a boost. Varicose veins These develop when additional pressure builds up on the blood vessels, obstructing normal blood circulation. Varicose veins may also occur due to damage to blood vessels, disrupting blood circulation in the veins. As a result, the veins appear twisted or engorged, usually in the lower extremities, such as the lower area of the leg. Blood clots These can occur anywhere in the body, blocking blood flow, either completely or partially. Although it can develop in any body part, the clots forming in the legs or arms are generally responsible for causing blood circulation issues. Sometimes, a blood clot in the abdomen can also indicate poor blood circulation. Muscle cramps When the body cannot get sufficient oxygenated blood due to poor circulation, it can cause cramps, especially in the legs.
6 early signs of poor lung health
health

6 early signs of poor lung health

We might not heed a cough that won’t go away or wheezing while breathing, assuming it might be because of air quality or changing weather. However, mild but chronic symptoms like these must be noted down. People often think that trouble with breathing is normal as they get older, but these might be signs of severe lung disease. With this in mind, here are six warning signs of poor lung health that should not be ignored. Chronic cough A cough that won’t go away and has been around for eight weeks or longer is considered chronic. The constant symptom indicates something might be wrong with the individual’s respiratory system. If one experiences this, they should visit a healthcare expert for an opinion immediately. Excessive mucus production The mucus lines the surfaces of organs like the lungs and serves as a lubricant to keep tissues from drying out and as a line of defense. But if someone develops excessive mucus in their throat or chest that won’t go away, it could be a sign of lung disease. Wheezing Noisy or strained breathing is a potential sign that something might be obstructing the airwaves in the lungs or forcing them to narrow.
5 warning signs of eczema to watch out for
health

5 warning signs of eczema to watch out for

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a skin disorder in which the skin feels extremely itchy, is flaky, and can appear reddish and inflamed. While the skin condition usually develops and is common in young children, it can occur at any age. It is also observed eczema patients are at high risk of having asthma, hay fever, and some food allergies. Keep reading to learn more about the early warning signs of this disease. Reddish and itchy skin Eczema usually starts with this symptom, which can be noticed on the feet, hands, and face. The skin may also become scaly, rough, and dry in certain areas. It needs to be properly diagnosed by a healthcare professional for initiating proper topical treatment. Blisters In some cases of eczema, one of the symptoms includes developing blisters. These are small and often have fluid filled in them. They can also be extremely itchy and, when scratched, may break and ooze on the skin. In addition, it can lead to further skin irritation in the area. Cracked skin This skin condition develops thick skin, which gets inflamed or swollen and can lead to cracks. It can get extremely uncomfortable, especially around the areas where the skin is thin and folded.
5 common skin care myths debunked
health

5 common skin care myths debunked

With heaps of information floating around promising to uncover all secrets about skincare and beauty regimes, it can be daunting to find well-grounded sources. Many urban legends and myths are also passed down through generations, and these seem to do more harm than good. To help you make the right decisions for your skin’s health and overall glow, here are some popular myths you must know about and the science behind them! Myth: The order of application of skincare products doesn’t matter! There is a correct way of applying your skincare products, which helps ensure that it is absorbed properly and works effectively. Work with your dermatologist’s recommendation if you are confused about the right order of application, or go from the lightest to the heaviest density of product formulation. The general order is to start with a cleanser, followed by toner or mist, and then serums, moisturizers, facial oils, and sunscreen. Myth: You only need to wear sunscreen on sunny days The sun’s UVA and UVB rays can penetrate through the clouds and many types of glass, which can cause permanent damage to your skin. It is vital to wear sunscreen every day and reapply it every couple of hours, regardless of your exposure to the sun.
5 foods that are secretly ruining teeth
health

5 foods that are secretly ruining teeth

We’re often under the impression that toothpaste and other oral hygiene products will keep our teeth healthy. But oral-care products can only help so far in protecting teeth. Most of the time, it is up to us to ensure we follow a healthy lifestyle to improve oral health. One way to do this is by avoiding these five foods that are secretly, but surely ruining the health of our teeth. Potato chips Chips contain lots of starch, which could become sugar and get trapped on and between the teeth. And the sugar feeds bacteria present in the plaque. Since people generally munch on many chips in one go, the acid production might linger for a while and damage the teeth. Therefore, one should ensure they floss after eating to remove any trapped particles. Sour candies Sour candies contain a large number of acids that are hard on the teeth. Furthermore, these candies are chewy and may stick to the teeth for a long time, making them more likely to decay. While the ideal solution is to avoid sweets, if one has cravings, one should munch on a bar of chocolate instead, which can wash away easily. Bread When a person chews on bread, the saliva breaks down starches into sugar.

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6 foods to avoid before taking a flight
travel

6 foods to avoid before taking a flight

Preparing for a flight is not only about what you pack into your bags but also what goes inside your stomach. Luxurious seating and business-class hospitality cannot compensate for a poorly planned meal before a flight. Changes in air pressure and density on board a flight cause a shift in meal requirements before and during one’s air journey. This article provides a list of foods that one should avoid before boarding a flight: Apples The proverb “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” cannot be more accurate, considering the abundance of antioxidants and vitamin C in apples. However, the fruit is extremely high in fiber content, which may cause problems with digestion and lead to bloating. Such issues can have a more severe impact while one is on board a flight. Hence, it is best to opt for fruits like oranges, berries, and papayas, which are easier to digest, before flight journeys. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are high in vital nutrients; however, they can be heavy on the stomach and trigger digestion issues. They are also rich in a sugar called raffinose, which often causes bloating. It helps to avoid cruciferous vegetables before a flight, swapping them with lighter foods like white rice, fermented foods, and instant oats.
5 surprising facts of long-haul flights
travel

5 surprising facts of long-haul flights

While long-haul flights may be taxing, typically from one part of the world to another, luxury aircraft entails world-class facilities to ensure comfortable, hassle-free flight journeys for passengers. Such flights have collectively increased accessibility to cities and towns across the globe, allowing individuals to reach distant lands in relatively short periods. Today, several passengers board long-haul flights for commercial purposes and leisure. So, let’s take a look at some surprising facts about these flights: Almost every aircraft has some minor defect The sensors in a plane provide information to the team on the ground about any defects or problems in the aircraft. It has been observed that there are some minor defects in almost every aircraft, such as the jamming of a window. In case of significant issues, the team posted on the ground can directly contact the pilots. Flight attendants have a secret chamber Unbeknown to most long-haul flights, almost all have a secret room dedicated to flight attendants. This room helps flight attendants rest and avoid unruly passengers. They can access the cockpit and comprise bunks. Some of them entail business-class seats and a washroom. You may be traveling with a rhino No, it is not just a dog or cat taken on a flight.
8 signs of hearing loss that shouldn’t be ignored
health

8 signs of hearing loss that shouldn’t be ignored

If “seeing is believing,” what is hearing? Hearing, too, is an important part of communication and plays an indispensable role in helping one perceive the world. Roughly 1.8 million people aged 12 and above in the country are affected by severe hearing loss. Owing to technological advancement, several facilities, including hearing aids and assistive learning devices, have been devised to help individuals who are hard of hearing. Timely detection of hearing problems helps doctors recommend suitable interventions. Here are some warning signs of hearing loss: Inability to understand what others say In the initial stages of losing their hearing, individuals cannot typically understand what others are saying, especially in crowded places. They may ask others to repeat themselves frequently and find it difficult to hold conversations. Difficulty hearing the other person over the phone Phone conversations can be harrowing for those with hearing difficulties, as they often find it difficult to follow the other person over a call. Thus, individuals who are hard of hearing and live alone may experience loneliness because of their inability to communicate over the phone. Tendency to increase TV or radio volume Those who are hard of hearing may find it difficult to hear dialogues or music playing on TV or radio.
5 early signs of bone weakening
health

5 early signs of bone weakening

It is normal for the bones to lose density and become weaker with age. Bone weakness develops gradually in most cases, but the onset can be quicker in people suffering from health issues like osteoporosis. This post lists a few common early warning signs of bone weakening that help identify the problem. Individuals who experience these should visit a healthcare professional to identify the cause and learn about the remedies to strengthen their bones. Lower back pain When a person has osteoporosis, their bone density reduces dramatically. In such a situation, the bones of the vertebrae, which are located one below the other in the spine, can come under increasing pressure. Sometimes, this pressure causes the lower-back bones to collapse or become compressed, resulting in massive discomfort and pain. Chronic back pain is among the earliest signs of osteoporosis. Receding gums The gums and jaw are closely connected to the bone structure in the head and face. So, if a person’s jawbone becomes weak, or, in other words, they lose bone in their jaw, it can cause their gums to recede from their teeth. In such instances, one should visit a dentist to check whether the problem is because of weak bones in the region.
7 early signs of arthritis
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7 early signs of arthritis

Joint pain is a common occurrence in most elderly patients. But some often fail to get it checked and receive a proper diagnosis. Most older patients, and some young ones, who experience joint pain are diagnosed with one or other forms of arthritis. Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are two of the most common forms of the disease. Inflammation of joints is a primary symptom in all forms of arthritis. An early diagnosis is essential for better treatment and management of the condition. Pain Those with joint pain should get it checked as early as possible. One of the questions your doctor might ask is how suddenly or gradually the pain developed. The persistence of the pain is another factor that needs to be considered. The diagnosis will also determine whether or not the pain worsens with increased activity and decreases when one rests. Tenderness Tenderness and inflammation of joints is a warning sign of rheumatoid arthritis. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage of the joints wears away, which can result in tenderness and pain. Tenderness is often present in combination with other symptoms like joint swelling, pain, and redness. Stiff joints Stiff joints are one of the earliest warning signs of arthritis. It is described as discomfort in the joints after spending some time being inactive.

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6 signs indicating it’s time for a wardrobe makeover
fashion

6 signs indicating it’s time for a wardrobe makeover

It is rightly said: “Fashion is like eating, you shouldn’t stick to the same menu.” In the kaleidoscopic world of fashion, the only constant is change. Sometimes, keeping up with such frequent changes can be challenging, causing several fashionistas to lose their inclination toward fashion. However, purchasing trendy outfits and accessories can enhance one’s look and charm. Here are some key indicators that can help one identify whether it is time for a wardrobe makeover: Having a wardrobe filled with rarely worn outfits A common agony among several individuals is that they cannot find anything to wear despite having a wardrobe full of outfits. Chances are that their wardrobes are no longer appealing, indicating the need for a makeover. It helps to segregate outfits based on the last time they had been worn, which can help one identify the clothes they have not been wearing that need to be disposed of or donated to make way for new ones. Only owning clothes that were fashionable in a bygone era Although the classic bell-bottoms, midis, and maxis were immensely popular in the 70s and are making a comeback, a lot of vintage apparel has also taken a backseat to make way for new-age fashion trends.
7 glamorous fashion trends for 2023
fashion

7 glamorous fashion trends for 2023

This year has been off to a strong start with numerous fashion trends making their way into our daily lives. Two of the biggest styling ideas that have stood out this year are practicality and fresh perspective, where designers are looking for new and innovative ways to repurpose classics. If you are keen on jumping on the fashion bandwagon, make sure you keep up with these seven hot trends in 2023. Skirt suits Skirt suits are back in fashion, but this time with bold, chic prints that are meant to make a statement. With varying lengths of skirts, jackets, and blazers, you now have so many more options when it comes to finding a flattering fit. Maxi skirts It’s time to give your mini skirts a little rest, as maxi skirts are back in style. This season, low-rise silhouettes with lots of pockets in fabrics like denim and velvet have become extremely popular. Cobalt blue outfits One of the brightest colors that have stood out on the runways this fashion season has been the electrifying cobalt blue. From daily-wear casual outfits to more structured dresses that are perfect for a professional setting, styling items in this color can help you elevate your basic looks.
7 easy ways to make sports clothing fashionable
fashion

7 easy ways to make sports clothing fashionable

While sportswear must be comfortable and functional, it shouldn’t be boring. With a wide range of clothing available for all kinds of sports today, you can easily find something that complements your body and enhances your style. Being fashionable doesn’t have to be costly either! You can look stylish even with simple sports outfits, whether hitting the gym, playing games, or running errands. Here are some ideas to instantly up your sports wardrobe. Mix and match A simple tip to look fashionable in sportswear is to experiment. For example, pair a sports high ball bra with baggy sweatpants, or throw on a cotton jersey with solid colors onto a pair of shorts. You never know what works. A half-zip crop top with a hoodie and joggers can also be considered. If you want a sporty look but won’t be indulging in high-intensity physical activity, just tuck in a jersey in denim jeans or shorts. Accessorize Wear sports-friendly accessories, like sunglasses, a cap, a smartwatch, a sweatband, a headband, or UV-protection arm sleeves. Apart from being incredibly useful, these items can add to your overall sports fashion look. Wrapping an oversized button-down jersey over shorts around your waist can make an eye-catchy statement!
5 floor cleaning mistakes that make the home appear unhygienic
Home and garden

5 floor cleaning mistakes that make the home appear unhygienic

While cleaning floors is not an idea of fun, it is important to keep your home clean and hygienic. Floor cleaning is more than just mopping with soapy water whenever the floor looks dirty. Even though tile and flooring materials are designed to be durable, one needs to know how to maintain them well. Here are some cleaning mistakes to avoid to keep your floors immaculate in the right manner: Not preparing your floors before mopping Make a plan before you start cleaning, and adhere to it. Before you mop, clear the floor of any pets, carpets, rugs, or furniture. Then, sweep or vacuum the floor thoroughly. Only then should you begin to mop. Mopping without doing so could make it dirty faster, further spreading the dirt and resulting in repetitive cleaning. Using too much water Although steam is one of the most harmless cleaning tools, it can cause damage if your home has hardwood floors. Check that your floor is resistant to steam or water before cleaning. Using the wrong chemicals Like water can damage hardwood floors, some abrasive chemicals can also ruin other flooring materials. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the contents of your cleaning products and how they react to the materials in your home.
4 common toilet cleaning mistakes to avoid
Home and garden

4 common toilet cleaning mistakes to avoid

Toilets need regular cleaning to prevent health and sanitation problems caused by unhygienic restrooms. Some of these problems include the accumulation of dirt, the spread of foul odor within the toilet and the house, and possible infections among inhabitants because of that. While cleaning toilets, people commonly make certain mistakes, which can dilute the positive effects of cleaning toilets. With that in mind, here are some of the most common toilet cleaning mistakes to avoid. Reusing the same cleaning cloth For convenience, one may be tempted to use the same cloth to wipe various toilet surfaces multiple times. However, this is a major mistake and will simply result in cleaners having to do even more work. Previously used rags transfer bacteria from one spot in the toilet to another. To prevent that, one needs to regularly switch cleaning cloths and sponges when they move from one zone in the toilet to another. Using separate cleaning rags is ideal to prevent the spread of germs and mess around the toilet. This will boost the potency of various cleaning products used for the job. Alternatively, one can also invest in quality paper towels for cleaning. While they may pose a recurring expense, they are an effective and hygienic way to quickly wipe down bathroom surfaces post-cleaning.
5 daily activities that boost mental health
health

5 daily activities that boost mental health

Mental health is about the brain’s functioning and everything else that impacts it. It is an umbrella term for psychological and social well-being and the ability to regulate and address emotions. Given its deep-rooted effect on daily life, it has garnered more attention, popularity, and support in recent years. Therefore, here are the five daily activities that can positively affect mental health. So let us learn more about each of them in detail: Get quality sleep Quality sleep plays a significant role in governing one’s mental health. Those who do not get enough sleep, or experience disrupted sleep, have reported more frequent mental distress than others. Building healthy sleep habits (such as avoiding caffeine after 3 pm and sleeping and waking at the same hours daily) can help improve sleep quality and mental health. Reduce social media Constantly scrolling through social media may cause one to compare their life to that of others. This can lead to feelings of low self-worth and can cause anxiety or depression. Therefore, one must limit their social media screen time and take up more meaningful activities or hobbies instead. Strengthen relationships Positive relationships with loved ones can also significantly improve one’s mental health. For instance, having a stable and reliable group of friends can reduce feelings of loneliness, increase access to emotional support, and add meaning to one’s life.