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7 bathing and showering mistakes to avoid

7 bathing and showering mistakes to avoid

Bathing and showering are essential parts of our daily hygiene routine, but sometimes we make mistakes that can affect our skin and overall health. While these are some of the most basic and simple activities of the day, some tips can enhance this self-care experience further. This article discusses 7 common bathing mistakes people make. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you make your skincare routine more efficient in maintaining good health and hygiene.

Taking hot water showers
This can be especially comfortable when there’s a nip in the air or even after a long exhausting day of work. But hot showers are notoriously famous for rinsing the natural oils off the skin. This can leave the skin to be dry and flaky. If you suffer from skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, hot showers should not be considered at all. It can cause flare-ups due to dry skin and dehydration. Also, always keep the baths short, just 10 mins. In fact, a lot of people might enjoy a hot shower after a workout, but studies suggest that a cold shower after a workout can help relax the muscles even more. And this can also help keep the pores of the skin closed. Some even take ice baths right after their workout, and while this may seem extreme, these baths can help relax the muscles tremendously after a hectic workout.

Not showering after exercise
Do you usually wait too long in your sweaty clothes to take a shower after the gym? You may feel lazy, but your skin can feel irritated with the sweat and dirt clogged in the pores. A lot of people also complain of acne due to sweating, and one way to avoid skin issues is to immediately take a proper bath after the workout to clean all the bacteria and dirt from the skin.

Wrong soap
This goes not just for soaps but for shampoos, conditioners, and any other bathroom products you may use. It is very important to be mindful of your skin type and needs and choose the most appropriate product. If you are allergic to scented products, then make sure you buy mild soaps with no scents. If you have a skin condition, always get a dermatologist-recommended product that will not irritate your skin and scalp further. There are several DIY remedies that can help keep your skin clean using natural ingredients. They are easily available on the internet. 

Moreover, even using the same soap in excessive quantities can cause skin irritation and rashes. It can also cause hair color to fade prematurely among individuals who may have dyed their hair. Thus, using the wrong soap or using any soap excessively should be avoided.

Dirty towel
Towels can harbor many bacteria, fungi, and several other germs which are invisible to the naked eye. Using a dirty towel to wash after a shower is almost like not taking a shower altogether. It is always recommended to wash your towel often and have enough clean towels in the home. It is also recommended that you do not frequently share towels with others, especially those whose personal hygiene habits you are unaware of. This can cause skin infections or other issues.

Unclean shower head
The showerhead can contain many bacteria and other germs that can irritate the skin. It may seem like self-cleaning equipment; however, a regular scrub to the showerhead is necessary to ensure it is not harboring infections. Also, many areas may sometimes get unclean water which can clog the pores of the shower head, making the bathing experience a hassle. Therefore, regularly fixing up this piece of equipment will ensure a quick, stress-free shower.

Over exfoliation
Another common mistake people make while taking showers is over-exfoliation. Exfoliation is an important step of skincare and personal care, but over-exfoliation can strip away the natural oils of your skin. This can also be responsible for causing inflammation and skin irritation leading to red, patchy skin. Dermatologists suggest doing exfoliation once or twice a week. However, always use gentle products which are not too harsh on the skin. Instead of using physical exfoliation, some even suggest using chemical exfoliation every couple of months, depending on the skin type and lifestyle. Speak to your dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis of the skin and the necessary treatment for the same.

Not moisturizing
Moisturizing right after a shower is highly recommended. In fact, many dermatologists recommend using your skincare products on damp skin for better absorption. Being aware of your skin type will help you choose the right moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated and plump throughout the day.

Proper bathing practices are essential for healthy skin. If one experiences itchy skin or scratching despite proper hygiene, it could be the result of an underlying skin condition, like prurigo nodularis. This condition is characterized by raised nodules on the skin’s surface, inflammation, and discomfort. Those who face persistent skin issues should consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Sometimes, upgrading to the right accessories can also make a huge difference. For instance, getting the right kind of bathroom fixtures, like sink faucets, can make tasks like shaving, grooming, washing your face, and cleaning the sink easier. You should compare different types of bath sink faucets, as each is designed to serve a specific purpose. Popular options include center-set, single-hole, vessel, wall-mounted, and widespread sink faucets.

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4 healthy foods for nursing mothers

Mothers who have recently delivered babies don't have sufficient nutrition due to the loss of blood and lactation. As a result, they have to carefully choose foods that are rich in calcium, carbohydrate, unsaturated fat, iron, folic acid, protein, and vitamins B6, B12, C, and D. Thankfully, healthy foods and supplements can help them regain strength and supply breastmilk to their newborns. The top four superfoods that can help nursing mothers include: Bananas Bananas are less expensive, available throughout the year, and considered a superfood for nursing moms. They are rich in nutrients, healthy carbs, vitamin B, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Bananas are also abundant in potassium, calcium, and pectin, a source of energy. Experts claim that having a banana every day can help moms regain the energy they need to take care of the baby and breastfeed. Potassium is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the mother's body and aids in the rampant transmission of nerve impulses.  Bananas can also aid in regulating blood pressure. It can prevent constipation, aid in regular bowel movements, and promote healthy gut bacteria. These fruits can provide about 1/4th of the vitamin B6 required for nursing moms, which is crucial for hemoglobin production and fighting antibodies. However, avoid bananas if you have allergies, a bout of cough and cold, or diabetes. Mothers can eat bananas after any meal or even add them to smoothies or pancakes as part of a meal. Fatty fish Fatty fish are naturally rich in vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. Fish like salmon and sardines are one of the few food sources of vitamin D, which is essential for mothers and their infants. A deficiency of vitamin D in infants, though uncommon now, can lead to weak and deformed bones. These fish also contain DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid essential for an infant's brain and heart development. DHA can be naturally found in breast milk if a mother eats fatty fish, eggs, or red meat. Omega-3 acids can also help in preventing postpartum depression. Mothers can choose from freshly caught fish, buy from verified farms, or use canned salmon. However, ensure that you have salmon or sardines twice a week to get its benefits and increase the production of breastmilk production. Homemade stock Soups and broths are wholesome and satisfying meals for nursing mothers. The most significant advantage of broths or soups is you can make large quantities and freeze them. The first three months can be hectic for new moms, which is why broths are perfect. They are nutritious, time savers, and can instantly replenish nutrients and strength. Mothers can use the bones and cartilage of chicken or lamb for meat broths. However, slow-cook them as the soup will have time to absorb all the nutrients and minerals from the meat and bones.  On the other hand, vegetarian mothers can make soups and broths of various vegetables and lentils. Bell pepper, carrots, celery stalks, french beans, lentils, mung, cottage cheese, and peas are ideal ingredients for vegetarian soups. Broths and soups can also help deal with postpartum depression and help regain bone density. It can also help reduce joint pain and strengthen joints right after childbirth. Leafy green vegetables It is widely known that green leafy vegetables contain multiple nutrients like vitamin A, C, E, and K, fiber, minerals, calcium, and antioxidants. Spinach has a high concentration of phytoestrogens and iron. When a nursing mom increases the intake of spinach, it raises the estrogen level and helps stimulate milk production. Phytoestrogens also help in regulating and reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels. They are low on calories; hence, you do not have to worry about gaining weight. One serving of green leafy vegetables daily is the recommended quantity for nursing moms.  Mothers can also eat broccoli and Swiss Chard, which are high in calcium and iron. The daily calcium requirement for nursing moms is about 1,300 milligrams a day. Kale or collard greens also can supply about 20% of the daily calcium requirement. Moms can also have milk and yogurt to ensure they receive the necessary supply of calcium. They can add greens to salads, smoothies, soups, or casseroles. Cigna breast pump Cigna is a global health service company that offers health, pharmacy, dental and supplemental insurance, and Medicare plans. You can get 100% of Cigna's insurance for hospital-grade and standard electric breast pumps with a prescription from your physician, midwife, or nurse practitioner. Cigna also covers the cost of renting a heavy-duty hospital-grade breast pump if a standard breast pump fails. Elvie Free Elvie, one of the brands covered by Cigna with a doctor's prescription, has introduced a revolutionary, silent wearable breast pump that women can discretely fit in their clothes. It is a wireless breast pump that can be operated through a smartphone. This easy-to-use pump can be used confidently and without any hassle. Since it is silent, it can be used anywhere without any disturbance or the need for privacy. Moreover, there are no tubes or pipes. It consists of five easy-to-assemble and clean components that make pumping clean and safe. If you're a new mother who wants to try out breast pumps, give this a try after consulting a doctor. 

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11 common symptoms of lung cancer

Lung cancer is a serious disease that affects millions worldwide. Early detection plays a crucial role in improving treatment outcomes and increasing the chances of survival. Recognizing the warning signs and seeking prompt treatment can significantly impact the prognosis. By understanding these signs, individuals can become more proactive in monitoring their health and seeking timely intervention. This information also serves a huge purpose for people with a family history of lung or other types of cancer. Persistent cough A persistent or chronic cough is one of the most common symptoms of lung cancer. It can go on for several weeks or months if left untreated. Over time, the cough can worsen and may even be accompanied by blood-tinged sputum. It is essential to pay attention to the duration and frequency of the cough and seek evaluation if it persists or intensifies. Shortness of breath Breathlessness or shortness of breath experienced without cause or activity can be a huge red flag for people at risk of developing lung cancer. If one starts experiencing this symptom while performing day-to-day activities, it could indicate an underlying condition that should not be ignored. The tumor growing in the lungs can obstruct free breathing and the passage of gases through the airway. It can also cause inflammation, resulting in persistent shortness of breath. Chest pain Persistent or worsening chest pain can be an alarming sign of lung cancer. The pain may be localized or radiate to the back, shoulders, or arms. Lung cancer-related chest pain can result from the tumor pressing against the chest wall, invading nearby tissues, or causing inflammation. Those experiencing persistent or severe chest pain should seek medical attention for a thorough examination. Unexplained loss of body mass Unintentional reductions in body mass, particularly when significant, can be a red flag for various underlying health conditions, including lung cancer. Cancer cells can alter the body's metabolism, leading to unexplained changes even without any difference in appetite or eating habits. Fatigue and weakness Persistent fatigue, weakness, or a general feeling of lethargy can be early warning signs of lung cancer. Cancer cells consume a significant amount of energy and can affect the body's overall energy levels, leading to fatigue. If patients are constantly tired or lacking energy despite adequate rest, discussing these symptoms with a healthcare professional is essential. Hoarseness or voice changes Unexplained hoarseness or changes in one's voice quality that persist for more than a few weeks should not be ignored. Lung tumors can affect the nerves and structures responsible for vocal cord function, leading to voice changes. If one experiences persistent hoarseness or voice changes, it is essential to have a thorough examination by an ear, nose, and throat specialist or healthcare provider. Chronic respiratory infections Frequent or chronic respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, can sometimes be a sign of an underlying lung condition, including lung cancer. The presence of a tumor can weaken the immune system and make the lungs more susceptible to infections. If one experiences recurrent or persistent respiratory infections, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Wheezing Wheezing, characterized by a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing, can be an early indication of lung cancer. It can occur when the tumor obstructs or narrows the airways, causing air to flow through constricted passages. If one notices persistent or unexplained wheezing, speaking to a doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate management is crucial. Bone pain In advanced stages of lung cancer, the disease may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, including the bones. Bone metastasis can cause severe pain, typically felt in the back, hips, or other areas. Suppose one experiences persistent or worsening bone pain without any apparent cause. In that case, it is important to discuss this symptom with one's healthcare provider to explore possible underlying causes, including lung cancer. Headaches and neurological symptoms Lung cancer that has spread to the brain can cause headaches, seizures, dizziness, or other neurological symptoms. The presence of brain metastases can exert pressure on the brain tissues, leading to these symptoms. If one experiences recurring or severe headaches, unexplained seizures, or any other neurological signs, seeking immediate attention for further evaluation is crucial. Swelling in the neck and face In some cases, lung cancer can cause a condition known as superior vena cava syndrome. This occurs when a tumor obstructs the large vein that carries blood from the upper body back to the heart. The obstruction can result in swelling, redness, or a feeling of fullness in the neck, face, or upper chest. If one notices any swelling in these areas, it is essential to seek a doctor’s advice promptly.

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