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.

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.

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.

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.

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?