Remedies and lifestyle changes to manage tardive dyskinesia

Remedies and lifestyle changes to manage tardive dyskinesia

Tardive dyskinesia (TD), in most cases, develops as an uncommon side effect of specific existing neurological prescriptions. Patients develop visible facial symptoms, including lip smacking, rapid blinking, and tongue thrusting, among others. These symptoms are triggered due to basic involuntary muscle contractions as the brain releases excess dopamine when one has tardive dyskinesia. There is no cure, but read on to know the prescriptions, treatments, and suggested lifestyle changes for the condition:

Prescriptions for tardive dyskinesia
One of the primary treatment methods suggested by specialists is the prevention of the symptoms and minimizing the risk of progression. Several FDA-approved prescriptions have proven to be effective in managing symptoms.

Ingrezza®
Ingrezza® once-a-day capsules are approved for treating and managing motor control issues linked to tardive dyskinesia. Adults can take the daily dose as suggested by their healthcare providers to manage specific facial and body movements that are involuntarily triggered during the disease progression. It controls the brain’s release of dopamine, one of the primary hormones linked to motor control, to prevent uncoordinated movements. Several clinical trials conducted revealed that the symptoms were managed within a period of six to eight weeks with a daily prescription. Continued use further improved outlook and quality of life among those dealing with moderate to severe symptoms.

Austedo®
Marketed under the brand name Austedo®, deutetrabenazine is a prescription given with existing treatment alternatives to manage movement-related problems caused by tardive dyskinesia. Symptoms can range from mild twitching, jerking, shaking, or blinking primarily affecting the face. The FDA-approved prescription has been recommended for patients after several clinical trials and studies and shows a reduction in the frequency and intensity of involuntary movements. Austedo® belongs to a class of vesicular monoamine transporter 2 VMAT2 inhibitors. These prescriptions are effective in lowering the dopamine signals sent by the brain to control specific movements. Since it can be prescribed with existing treatments, the dosage will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and progression of tardive dyskinesia. Doctors start with a low dose to see how the body and mind react before making changes to improve the long-term outlook.

Standard treatments to manage tardive dyskinesia

Botox
Botox is commonly used to change the appearance of facial wrinkles, control certain types of muscle spasms, lower excessive sweating under the armpits, treat a lazy eye, and even for managing tardive dyskinesia. Botox or botulinum toxin is processed in the lab to make it safe for injection use on the muscle. Its primary purpose is to prevent the release of acetylcholine responsible for muscle contractions, thus allowing the muscles to relax. It is suggested for managing the facial contractions and involuntary muscle movements, among other symptoms of similar neurological conditions. A couple of doses of Botox can prevent muscle spasms from recurring for at least three months. Adults over the age of 18 can consider this treatment alternative for managing involuntary reflexes and contractions that disrupt facial features and expressions. However, note that Botox injections need to be taken regularly, at least once in three months, as prescribed by the doctor for long-term efficacy. The procedure is minimally invasive and takes about 30 minutes to map and inject the botulinum toxin. Results may be visible within the first week after injection.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
DBS is one of the treatments suggested for Parkinson’s disease, and it may also be suggested for patients with tardive dyskinesia. Note that it is opted for in cases where most standard treatments have failed to deliver results. That is because DBS is an invasive procedure that uses electrical currents to alter the function of certain neurons. The treatment is FDA approved and has been instrumental in helping patients who didn’t benefit from standard approaches for neurological disorders. The brain simulates neurons responsible for impulse control. DBS uses controlled electrical currents to alter the functioning of a neuron, specially those linked to involuntary movement disorders like Parkinson’s, dystonia, essential tremors, and even epilepsy. All of this can be achieved wirelessly once the implants are in place. Both the healthcare provider and patients have access to the control settings, and it is adjusted with multiple follow-up appointments to get the right stimulation.

Lifestyle changes to overcome motor control issues
Prescriptions and treatments are believed to work better with the following changes to better manage tardive dyskinesia.

Live an active lifestyle
Regular exercise, stress relieving techniques, and practicing good sleep hygiene can improve physical control, promote better mood, and boost immunity to manage symptoms of tardive dyskinesia further.

Consider joining support groups
Joining a support group can boost morale and help patients overcome social anxiety. There are many coping mechanisms that can teach patients to overcome stressful situations when the symptoms flare up.

Observe any progression
Depending on family members and close friends to monitor and observe daily movements can provide better insights for the doctor to modify treatment plans. Tardive dyskinesia is a progressive disorder, so it all comes down to what can be done to prevent the symptoms from worsening in the long run.

At any point, if the symptoms or control issues worsen, immediate attention from a health professional is advisable. Also, do not make any changes to daily routine, prescriptions, or lifestyle without first consulting with the healthcare specialist. Remember all changes will present side effects that also need to be addressed promptly.

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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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5 myths about sunglasses debunked

Sunglasses not only help protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays but also add aesthetic appeal to the overall appearance. With the right sunglasses, you can pull off any look and, at the same time, maintain eye health. One can opt for polarized sunglasses for the beach day or classic aviators for a brunch date. However, there are many myths about the usage of sunglasses, which unfortunately leads to vision damage. Let's debunk the following four myths: Myth 1 - Children don't need sunglasses One common myth amongst adults is that children don't particularly need sunglasses for protection as adults do. Research shows that the lens of a child allows more UV rays to penetrate through their sensitive retina than in adults. Once you begin to protect the eyes from a nascent stage, you can prevent some eye-related issues from developing as your child grows. Some sunglasses for kids are ambiguous about the features and merely state that they offer protection from ultraviolet rays. Please do not buy them unless it clearly states they provide 100% protection from UV rays. Myth 2 - Cheap sunglasses don't offer protection Higher the prices, better the quality. This is a general belief that is also applied to eyewear. Cheaper sunglasses, as long as they offer 100% protection from UV rays, are as effective as expensive ones. A range of affordable brands in the market offer good-quality sunglasses. You can also customize one for specific purposes, but it comes with a cost. For instance, Oakley sunglasses are world famous for being tested in harsh physical conditions, and they undergo velocity and various tests. They also offer polarized and iridium lenses. Myth 3 - Sunglasses are meant for sunny days It is common to associate sunglasses with sunny summers, where exposure to the sun is maximum. Irrespective of the season, exposure of the eyes to direct sunlight should be limited as UV rays pass through clouds. When you expose your eyes to sunlight for an extended period, you also risk developing cataracts and eye cancer. One might brush aside the impact of rays on a rather cloudy day. Make sure you apply sunblock and wear sunglasses when you step out. Research shows a specific scattering effect of light on certain cloudy days can increase your exposure to harmful UV rays. Wear your sunglasses in summer, spring, fall, and winter. Snow blindness is a type of photokeratitis wherein the thin surface of the corneas begins to freeze due to the sun's reflection on ice or snow. Make sure your eyes are protected when it is snowing too. You can choose from a wide range of chic winter shades. Myth 4 - Darker tinted sunglasses offer better protection A major preconceived notion amongst people is that darker shades offer better protection from sun rays. The darker tinted sunglasses are the best-selling products during peak summer. However, the UV protection coating truly matters, not the shade. Check the label before blindly buying darker tinted sunglasses. You can purchase the glasses if the packaging clearly states that it offers 100% protection from UV-A and UV-B rays. While choosing darker shades is a personal preference, ensure that the glasses offer UV protection. Polarized lenses help with better vision and protection. You can check out the Oakley website for various tints and shades offered. Please read the descriptions and the conditions mentioned under each product category. Myth 5 - All sunglasses provide UV protection Sunglasses with tinted, polarized lenses do not always protect from UV rays. One can get them customized for protection. In fact, those dark sunglasses without UV protection may affect the pupil due to blocking out light and allowing harmful rays to enter the eyes. Oakley sunglasses Oakley is one of the most trusted sunglasses brands in the market. Every lens goes through the highest standard velocity tests, and the brand offers some of the most robust frames. They have top-quality scratch-resistant lenses; even if they get scratched, the UV rays will not penetrate through the lens. All of the lenses undergo quality testing. They block 100% of blue light rays, UVA, and UVB rays. They have specific frames for motorsports, cycling, driving, and other activities. While Oakley sunglasses are popular amongst athletes, you can find a range of designs for daily use. Some popular sunglasses from Oakley include: Frogskins Mainlink XL EVZero Blades Radar EV Pitch Sutro Lite Jawbreaker Split Shot Holbrook Plazma Oakley sunglasses for kids Oakley's colorful collection of youth sunglasses is duly tested to protect your kids' delicate eyes. The brand has recognized early on that exposure to direct sunlight at a young age can lead to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They have ultramarine, purple, and orange tints, and you can view first-hand customer reviews on the website. You can add prescription lenses to all the youth fit models. Some popular Oakley kids sunglasses include: Radar EV XS Holbrook XS Flax XS Frogskins XS Turbine XS Make sure to get your eyes tested periodically and practice eye exercises. Maintaining eye health at a young age can prevent eye-related disorders and vision degradation.

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