10 foods that may trigger or worsen epilepsy symptoms

10 foods that may trigger or worsen epilepsy symptoms

The brain is a vital organ responsible for several bodily functions. Epilepsy is a central nervous system (neurological) disorder that affects the brain and prevents it from working correctly. The condition may cause unusual behavior and sensations, seizures, and sometimes loss of awareness. Many factors can trigger the symptoms of epilepsy, including certain foods. Those with the disorder are advised to steer clear of the following options to manage their symptoms better. Coffee Coffee contains caffeine, a helpful stimulant that boosts energy for carrying out tasks at work or home. However, the beverage might not be the best for someone with epilepsy. Drinking too much coffee may trigger symptoms like seizures, which can lead to severe complications if not controlled. Therefore, patients are better off excluding this stimulant from their nutrition plan. Bananas Eating bananas regularly can have several health benefits. The fruit contains a substantial amount of potassium, which various body parts use to function well. Potassium may also help transfer electrical signals in the brain. However, eating too many bananas in a day may increase the body’s potassium levels. Excessive levels of this mineral in the brain may lead to symptoms of epilepsy, including seizures. One banana a day should not have adverse effects, but it is best to speak to a healthcare expert before changing a meal plan.
Read More
8 peeing mistakes to avoid for a healthy bladder

8 peeing mistakes to avoid for a healthy bladder

The urinary bladder, an important organ located in the pelvic cavity, acts as a temporary reservoir or holding place for urine. Although it performs a vital function, one may not stop to think about it until it does not work as it should. Certain lifestyle choices can impact bladder health and function, leading to issues like painful urination or urinary incontinence. So, avoiding the following peeing mistakes can help one maintain bladder health: Holding it in for too long Sometimes, holding pee in is unavoidable. However, making a habit out of it can impact bladder health. Contrary to popular belief, urine is not sterile. It contains several microbes that can lead to infections. Additionally, holding urine in makes the bladder stretch too much, which can impact bladder control. Not emptying the bladder Not emptying the bladder can also impact bladder health by stretching the organ and increasing the risk of infection. At times, one may also be unaware that their bladder has not been emptied. This is known as urinary retention. It may be a result of blockages, treatments, infections, swelling, or even neurological conditions. Common symptoms of urinary retention include pain or swelling in the lower abdomen, frequent urination in small amounts, a continual urge to pass urine even after peeing, and a slow stream.
Read More
7 signs of unhealthy skin that need attention

7 signs of unhealthy skin that need attention

Skin is the largest organ of the human body and often also the one that is easily ignored. It is one of the telltale organs which show signs and symptoms of how a person’s body is doing internally – if it is healthy or unhealthy. Many internal and external factors contribute to the skin’s health and here are some signs that indicate one’s skin might need some love, care, and attention. Dry and flaky skin This happens when there is not enough moisture retention in the skin. There can be many factors that cause dryness, including using harsh face and body cleansers, excessive bathing and exfoliation, and extreme weather conditions like too hot or too cold temperatures. Moreover, other underlying conditions like eczema or psoriasis could be responsible for the dry and flaky skin symptoms. It is important to moisturize regularly and drink enough water to stay hydrated. If one lives in an extremely dry environment, then investing in a humidifier is recommended to avoid further skin issues. Acne breakouts This is a prevalent condition that leads to the formation of other issues like blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. When there is excess sebum production, then it leads to clogging of pores and the formation of bacteria.
Read More
7 warning signs of bone cancer to be aware of

7 warning signs of bone cancer to be aware of

Bone cancer is a rare but serious condition that primarily affects an individual’s pelvis and long bones in the arms or legs. Timely detection and treatment are crucial to manage the symptoms effectively. Here are some of the highly common warning signs associated with bone cancer as well as some of its causes and treatment options. This can help individuals recognize symptoms and take proactive measures in addressing this condition. What is bone cancer? Bone cancer, or bone sarcoma, is an uncommon type of cancer that makes up less than one percent of all cancer cases. It occurs once malignant cells start to grow in the bones and form a tumor. Bone cancer can be of various forms. Osteosarcoma, which is highly prevalent in children and young adults. Here, the cancerous cells grow or produce excess bone cells. Chondrosarcoma is another type of cancer where the cancerous cells begin to produce cartilage. It usually affects middle-aged and older adults. Ewing sarcoma tumors primarily affect the pelvis, legs and arms of children and young adults. Warning signs of bone cancer Pain In the initial stage, one may experience pain in the area where the cancer is developing. This is the most common sign and may also be associated with swelling in the area.
Read More
5 tips for healthy lungs

5 tips for healthy lungs

Maintaining lung health is crucial for our overall well-being. Our lungs are primarily responsible for supplying oxygen to our body and releasing carbon dioxide, which is why taking good care of them is essential. However, with the increasing prevalence of lung-related diseases worldwide, prioritizing lung health is becoming more critical than ever. This article will impart valuable tips to help one keep their lungs healthy. Some of them are: Environmental factors that affect lung health The air we breathe can have a significant impact on our lung health. Exposure to air pollution, occupational hazards, and allergens can increase the risk of developing lung-related diseases. Air pollution significantly contributes to lung-related diseases and can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and lung cancer. Occupational hazards such as asbestos, coal dust, and silica can also lead to lung-related diseases. Besides, allergens and irritants such as pet dander, pollen, and smoke can also irritate our lungs and cause respiratory problems. To minimize exposure to these environmental factors, it’s essential to wear protective gear, avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, and maintain indoor air quality. Tips to promote healthy lungs Here are some tips to keep your lungs healthy: Practice good hygiene Practicing good hygiene helps prevent the spread of respiratory infections, which can be particularly harmful to people with compromised lung health.
Read More
5 alarming side effects of insufficient water intake

5 alarming side effects of insufficient water intake

Accounting for more than 60% of the human body, water is integral for survival. Hydration facilitates digestive functions, helps maintain temperature, and ensures proper circulation. Health experts and nutritionists advise adults to drink 6-8 glasses of water daily to ensure optimum health. Insufficient water intake can lead to several complications, such as dehydration, fatigue, dizziness, and more. Keep reading to learn more about the side effects of not drinking enough water. Dehydration The first noticeable side effect of poor drinking habits is dehydration. As the term suggests, this is a condition in which the body lacks enough water and cannot function properly. It can lead to symptoms like dizziness, headaches, dark yellow urine, thirst, and dry mouth. Some severe symptoms include feeling lightheaded or confused. If left untreated, dehydration can lead to life-threatening complications like kidney failure, seizures, and other severe conditions. Skin changes Dry and flaky skin are common symptoms of insufficient water intake. Drinking enough glasses of water during the day is important to keep the skin naturally hydrated and moisturized from within. Many nutritionists also recommend eating hydrating fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and similar foods, which helps keep the skin’s elasticity intact, making it appear youthful.
Read More
7 common early signs of Parkinson’s

7 common early signs of Parkinson’s

The brain controls all actions in the body using an intricate network of nerves connecting everything from head to toe. Parkinson’s is a neurological progressive disease that affects this network and disrupts vital nerve signals controlling body parts and functions. The disease does not have a permanent cure. But its symptoms can be managed with treatment, therapy, and lifestyle changes. One must recognize early signs of Parkinson’s disease to get a prompt diagnosis and treatment. Tremors Stress or physical fatigue can trigger shaky hands. However, a tremor that develops in the thumb, one of the fingers, the hand, or even the chin while resting may be an early sign of Parkinson’s. Tremors can start in the fingers but can turn into severely uncontrolled movements affecting the entire arm as the condition progresses. Poor balance, posture, and gait Changes in one’s walk and pace, like suddenly walking slower, could be another early sign of the disease. Parkinson’s also affects the nerves that control flexibility and balance. If the person takes more time or struggles with maintaining balance, it indicates damage to the basal ganglia nerves. Changes in stance are also noticeable as the disease progresses, with one developing a stooped or hunched-over posture.
Read More
Understanding high cholesterol – Its symptoms and associated risk factors

Understanding high cholesterol – Its symptoms and associated risk factors

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance produced by the liver. It builds healthy cell membranes, vitamin D, and certain hormones. Since it cannot dissolve in water, it does not travel through the bloodstream. It is carried by lipoproteins, which are low-density lipoproteins (LDLs, or bad cholesterol) and high-density lipoproteins (HDLs, or good cholesterol). High amounts of LDL or low amounts of HDL can lead to fatty buildup in the blood vessels. High cholesterol To find out one’s cholesterol levels, a lipid profile may be required. Here’s what the results mean: Total cholesterol in adults These are the parameters to check one’s total cholesterol: Normal: Less than 200 mg/dL Borderline: 200 to 239 mg/dL High: 240 mg/dL or above LDL cholesterol in adults These are the parameters to check one’s LDL cholesterol: Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL Near-optimal: 100 to 129 mg/dL Borderline high: 130 to 159 mg/dL High: 160 to 189 mg/dL Very high: 190 mg/dL or above HDL cholesterol in adults These are the parameters to check one’s HDL cholesterol: Optimal: 60 mg/dL or higher Borderline: 40 to 59 mg/dL among men and 50 to 50 mg/dL among women Low: Under 40 mg/dL among men and under 50 mg/dL among women Medicare insurance covers routine blood checkups for high cholesterol once every five years.
Read More
6 signs of poor eyesight caused by excessive blood sugar

6 signs of poor eyesight caused by excessive blood sugar

High blood sugar can be caused by high amounts of sugar consumption, insulin deficiency, or in some other way. Either way, people with a high blood sugar ratio tend to have many health issues because of it. While high blood sugar affects nearly every organ and system in the human body, it arguably affects one’s vision most severely. Here are some signs of poor eyesight due to excessive sugar in one’s bloodstream: Blurry vision All the signs and symptoms listed here directly relate to diabetes, the ultimate frontier for high blood sugar-related health conditions. Blurry vision is one of the earlier signs of the dangerously high proportion of sugar in a person’s blood messing with their vision. Most people believe they need new glasses or contact lenses once their vision goes blurry. However, people need to get their eyes tested by an ophthalmologist to confirm whether they need a new pair of contact lenses or other diabetes-related treatment methods. By bringing one’s blood sugar levels into the acceptable range of about 70 to 130 milligrams per deciliter before meals and less than 180 milligrams per deciliter about an hour or two after them, people can correct blurry vision. This meal correction takes up to three months for blurry vision to clear.
Read More
10 easy ways to clean stained teeth

10 easy ways to clean stained teeth

Several people experience changes in the color of their teeth over time. While these alterations can be subtle, they can occur over a gradual period, slowly damaging the teeth. These changes can be noticed in the form of yellow or discolored teeth, which may turn darker with age. Although at first, this may seem harmless, one must not ignore it. Keep reading to learn about ten simple ways to clean stained teeth. Brush regularly and use a mouthwash One must brush their teeth at least two times a day, and especially after consuming foods and beverages that can turn the teeth yellow, such as tea, coffee, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and tomato-based sauces. However, one must remember that brushing the teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods may do more harm than good. Doing so can take away tooth enamel, making the yellow color increasingly visible. Furthermore, to ensure one achieves a pearly smile, one can try whitening mouthwashes. These products contain incredibly low concentrations of chemicals like potassium pyrophosphate and sodium citrate that work by bleaching teeth and removing stains. Apply hydrogen peroxide and baking soda paste Most whitening gels contain peroxide-based agents that bleach the teeth. So, one can blend baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to create a paste and use it to get rid of plaque and bacteria buildup on the teeth.
Read More