4 warning signs of diabetic retinopathy to watch out for
health

4 warning signs of diabetic retinopathy to watch out for

Excessive sugar intake could lead to various health complications, including diabetic retinopathy – a condition affecting the retina. The longer an individual has diabetes and excessive sugar in their blood, the more likely they are to develop the eye disorder. While there are treatments for the condition, early diagnosis is important to improve the odds of managing the disease. Here are five signs of diabetic retinopathy to help identify and seek assistance immediately. Blurry vision Blurry vision may stem from several conditions, such as strain on the eyes from sitting in front of a screen for long hours. However, it may also indicate high blood sugar and require an expert’s intervention. The symptom may result from a swelling of the lens, which affects one’s ability to see clearly. Floaters An individual may develop symptoms such as floaters, which are small dark shapes that float across their vision. These could look like threads, spots, squiggly lines, and tiny cobwebs. Most people may experience the symptoms occasionally and don’t require treatments. However, it could also be a sign of excess sugar in the blood and may appear suddenly without going away. In such situations, one must consult an expert immediately. Bleeding in the eye People who notice bleeding in their eyes should consult with a healthcare professional immediately.
6 early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease
health

6 early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that impacts the nervous system. It affects the movement and motor skills of an individual. Sometimes, it also changes behavior, cognitive abilities, memory, and sleep patterns. Since the condition is progressive, the symptoms start gradually. Although Parkinson’s is not curable, some treatments slow down the condition’s progression and help manage the symptoms. Understanding the early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease can help in timely diagnosis and management. Tremors Also called rhythmic shaking, the tremors usually start in the limbs. Even when the hands are at rest, one might experience tremors. The intensity of shaking may come down when the individual is engaged in some activity or task. Some people with Parkinson’s might experience pill-rolling tremors, wherein they try to rub their forefinger and thumb back and forth. Slowed movement This early sign of Parkinson’s is also called bradykinesia and is characterized by slow movement. Also, it makes it harder to perform the simplest of tasks. For example, a person’s steps become slower and shorter while walking. They may tend to shuffle or drag their feet as they walk. They may also find it difficult to stand up after sitting down for a while. In short, it becomes time-consuming to do routine tasks.
3 uncommon questions to ask a neurologist
health

3 uncommon questions to ask a neurologist

Neuroscience is an interesting study field, with never-ending questions and the quest to answer them. If you know a neurologist and would like to strike up a healthy conversation to know more about the field, you can start with some unusual questions. These questions may not just be about the brain’s health but also about understanding how powerful and complex this organ is. Here are some to start you off. Can brain waves be harnessed to generate power to make devices work? While the brain produces electricity of its own through the neuron receptors, the energy generated is too small. However, there is ongoing research to understand how this electricity naturally generated in the body can be used for scientific purposes. The research includes trying to treat wounds in the body, depression, paralysis, and even cancer. One of the best examples of how electric waves are used in treatment is the pacemaker which helps facilitate the beating of the heart at an appropriate pace. How does the brain intercept and process abstract concepts like art and philosophy? A small experiment was done at the Carnegie Mellon University’s Center for Cognitive Brain Imaging to understand how the brain activates neural patterns to understand abstract scientific concepts.
5 critical oil change mistakes to avoid
auto

5 critical oil change mistakes to avoid

Changing your vehicle’s engine oil sounds straightforward enough. You can either replace it professionally at the local garage or DIY the entire task at home. Nevertheless, it is a necessary step that should not be skipped to improve engine performance and efficiency. Timely engine maintenance will save you thousands of dollars in repair ahead. So, if you decide to change the engine oil at home, avoid making these common mistakes. Using the wrong type of oil Not all vehicle engines run on the same oil type for lubrication. It varies depending on the type of car and driving conditions. You can either use conventional motor oil, the cheapest of all variants or switch to a synthetic blend that provides better viscosity and resistance to drastic oxidation caused by changing weather conditions. Alternatively, consider using high-mileage oils that are both pocket and environment-friendly. Not checking the proper oil levels You need to fill in the right amount of oil that needs to be used for optimal engine function. Overfilling the engine causes the lubricating oil to leak inside the gaskets and stall the engine. And using very little oil increases friction and causes premature wear of the components that make up the engine.
Avoid these 5 mistakes while installing security cameras
Home and garden

Avoid these 5 mistakes while installing security cameras

A home can be immaculately designed and well equipped, but it is incomplete without adequate security measures. Security is imperative to ward off unruly events like robbery, theft, and trespassing. While employing security personnel can help ensure safety, technological interventions ensure 100% accuracy at all times and are operational 24×7, reducing long-term costs and eliminating the chances of safety breaches. The key to effectively utilizing security cameras is to avoid certain common installation mistakes: Installing in an area with insufficient or extremely bright lighting Too much or too little light in the area where the camera is installed can lead to unclear or distorted images, which can impede the identification of suspects or comprehension of events. Hence, CCTV cameras should be placed in areas with adequate lighting, neither too bright nor too dim. Installing in an area with a restricted view Placing one’s security camera in an area with several objects blocking the view can cause difficulties with surveillance. Areas with dense greenery, tall buildings, and high walls are not ideal for installing security cameras. Overlooking the height Installing one’s CCTV camera at a high altitude prevents it from getting a panoramic view. In contrast, placing it too low increases the risk of the camera being stolen or tampered with.
5 mistakes that worsen an indoor flea infestation
Home and garden

5 mistakes that worsen an indoor flea infestation

Fleas are a nuisance and are hard to eliminate once they infest a place. But the problem is ten times harder to deal with indoors as there are many locations for infestations. Poor hygiene and lifestyle habits allow these pesky invaders to keep spreading, and in severe cases, you may have to call professionals to help deal with the issue. To avoid this hassle, here are the following mistakes to prevent an indoor flea infestation. Letting pets indoors without thoroughly cleaning them Fleas usually infest under your pet’s collar and fur, where adult fleas also burrow deep into the skin and lay the larvae that hatch after a while. Pets with a lot of fur tend to shake down dust and debris once they are back indoors from the park, yard, etc. This causes the fleas and larvae to dissipate indoors on the carpeting and furnishings. Constantly letting your pets indoors without having them cleaned thoroughly will bring in a flea infestation from the outside undetected. Following poor sanitary habits Poor hygiene habits like not sweeping the floor, vacuuming carpets, or changing furnishings used in the bedroom and living spaces can trigger a rapid flea infestation indoors. Fleas love dirty, dingy, and damp places where mold and other bacteria fester.
5 mistakes that increase the risk of heart failure
health

5 mistakes that increase the risk of heart failure

Unbeknownst to many, having a heart attack can increase the risk of recurrent heart attacks among men and women. Several contributing factors, ranging from age to unhealthy lifestyle choices or certain health conditions, increase this risk. Therefore, older adults and people who have endured a heart attack must pay attention to the warning signs and symptoms of recurrent heart failure. However, more importantly, one must avoid making certain mistakes to prevent this condition. Working out excessively If forced to pump blood more excessively during any physical activity, the heart can fail at some point due to wear and tear. This risk is high among patients already diagnosed with cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure. Experts recommend at least 30 mins of physical exercise daily to keep the heart muscles strong. Not making lifestyle changes Healthy changes in daily nutrition and lifestyle will only help improve overall cardiovascular function. However, resisting change or not following specific nutrition and activity guidelines recommended by a healthcare expert increases the risk of heart failure, among other conditions. When coupled with unhealthy habits and poor lifestyle choices, this can result in chronic complications. Skipping prescriptions After an episode of heart attack or failure, one must follow prescription treatments suggested by a health expert without fail to keep the organ’s health in check.
5 warning signs of poor blood circulation
health

5 warning signs of poor blood circulation

Poor blood circulation can have severe consequences for overall health, especially regarding the heart. The heart plays a vital role in pumping oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, and any disruption in blood flow can lead to heart failure. Recognizing the warning signs of poor circulation is crucial for early intervention and prevention. From persistent fatigue to swollen limbs, these symptoms can indicate underlying issues that require expert attention. Fatigue Chronic fatigue is a warning sign that determines something is wrong with the body. It can also be an indication of poor blood circulation. Fatigue can arise from the compromised supply of oxygen and nutrients to various muscles and organs. If someone is experiencing persistent fatigue even after getting sufficient rest, it can be a sign to get blood supply, and other basics checked out. Chest pain or discomfort In the healthcare industry, chest pain or discomfort is referred to as angina. It is one of the most commonly recognized symptoms of cardiac issues associated with poor blood supply. It may manifest as a squeezing, pressure, or tightness in the chest. This pain can occur during physical activity or emotional stress and may subside with rest. Shortness of breath Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing is yet another classic symptom of heart problems.
4 common car maintenance mistakes to avoid
auto

4 common car maintenance mistakes to avoid

Your vehicle has several components that must be kept in good working condition to ensure a smooth and safe drive. Everything right from the windshield wipers to the brake calipers, checks should be done regularly to ensure repairs and replacements are done on time. However, there are certain vehicle maintenance tasks that are often overlooked unintentionally. To help you avoid critical mistakes, here are four essential car maintenance tasks you should never neglect. Ignoring warning lights Hove you ever noticed those tiny colorful icons blinking on the dashboard? Those are warning lights that you should not ignore. They indicate potential battery issues, engine failures, and electrical component shorts. You should always get it checked at the earliest as delaying maintenance can result in hefty repair costs or even the replacement of parts that are not covered under warranty. Skipping fluid checks The engine and other moving parts installed in any vehicle require lubrication to perform smoothly. You should never ignore the oil levels, as leaks can cause a complete component breakdown due to friction. It’s also crucial to monitor brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine coolant levels to prevent overheating and potential leaks. Don’t neglect these important maintenance tasks for your vehicle’s longevity and safety.
5 signs indicative of high cholesterol levels in the body
health

5 signs indicative of high cholesterol levels in the body

Cholesterol is naturally produced by the body and is also found in regular foods and beverages. It’s a fatty substance stored in the body’s cells and produces vitamins or minerals to support vital bodily functions. The body stores both good and bad cholesterol so any imbalance in either levels can trigger high cholesterol. A buildup of high cholesterol can lead to severe health complications, making it imperative to identify the warning signs of the same. Signs of high cholesterol There are no direct symptoms of high cholesterol. However, high cholesterol does increase the risk of several underlying health complications that trigger the following discomforts. Discomfort in the chest High cholesterol greatly increases the risk of coronary heart disease. So, one might experience chest pain, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, and nausea, as a precursor. As cholesterol levels increase in the arteries, it causes a buildup of plaque, causing blockage. Cognitive problems Problems with cognition are also indicative signs of high cholesterol. As the plaque buildup increases blood pressure in the arteries, vital oxygen supply to the brain is cut off. This can result in loss of balance, coordination problems, dizziness, drooping eyelids, paralysis on one side, confusion, slurring, blurred vision, severe headaches, and even numbness.

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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.
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 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 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.