6 Early Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Health

6 Early Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects the nerves and movement. Symptoms of Parkinon’s disease often begin slowly with slight stiffness, mobility issues, and a barely noticeable tremor—with symptoms worsening over time and as the disease progresses. Although Parkinson’s disease isn’t curable, medications like Austedo and Levodopa can be prescribed by doctors to significantly improve the symptoms. Health care providers also often recommend physical therapy to help improve stiffness and mobility issues. Read on for the common early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease: 1. Stiffness, inflexibility, and cramping Early signs of Parkinson’s may include muscle stiffness, inflexibility, and cramps. This trio of symptoms is often referred to as rigidity. This can make certain tasks—like tying shoes, getting dressed, and writing more difficult. Rigidity can prevent muscles from stretching and relaxing, which can particularly affect getting up from a seated position or turning over in bed. This reduced movement in patients is characterized as bradykinesia. It may also affect automatic movements—including blinking, smiling or swinging the arms when walking. 2. Problems with your bladder or bowels Parkinson’s patients often report bladder or bowel troubles in the early stages. Signs of an overactive bladder, such as increased urgency to use the toilet and without warning, or waking to urinate frequently throughout the night, are the most common bladder symptoms of people with Parkinson’s.
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The Most Effective Natural and Medicated Treatments for Dry Eyes
Health

The Most Effective Natural and Medicated Treatments for Dry Eyes

Battling the discomfort of dry eyes is a challenge that many people face globally. Many turn to prescription remedies such as Restasis and Xiidra for relief, or they seek comfort in high-quality contact lenses like Dailies Total 1, Acuvue OASYS, Bausch & Lomb ULTRA, or Alcon Air Optix Aqua Multifocal. However, these are not the only paths to relief from dry eyes. In fact, there are plenty of home remedies available. Here are 10 DIY remedies that can help bring you some much-needed comfort: 1. Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into your diet Omega-3 fatty acids are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help mitigate dry eye symptoms. Incorporate more fish, flaxseeds, or chia seeds into your diet. Supplements are also a viable option. 2. Do blink exercises The digital era has reduced our natural blinking rate, leading to dry eyes. Regular blink exercises can help to counteract this. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: for every 20 minutes you spend looking at a screen, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds and blink 20 times. 3. Use a humidifier The humidity level in your environment can have a significant impact on your eyes. Using a humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, which can reduce eye dryness.
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Early Warning Signs of Multiple Myeloma
Health

Early Warning Signs of Multiple Myeloma

Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells, or white blood cells, that protect our bodies from infection by producing antibodies. There are 3 types of myeloma, including multiple myeloma, solitary plasmacytoma, and extramedullary plasmacytoma. This cancer sets itself apart from other types as it’s relapsing remitting, commonly with multiple myeloma. This means that there are times when this cancer is active and requires treatments, and times when it is steady and under control. Myeloma treatments include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, corticosteroids, bone marrow transplant, radiation therapy, and more. Like other cancers, when caught early on, myeloma treatments are more successful—here are some early warning signs to look out for: 1. Bone problems Bone problems are an early warning sign of myeloma. This occurs due to myeloma cells growing in the bone marrow and bone. Issues with bones typically include bone pain, bone weakness, or broken bones. With bone pain, one may experience uncomfortable feelings in any bone—most commonly this affects the back, hips, and skull. Bone weakness occurs as a result of an onset of osteoporosis which thins the bone. Lastly, broken bones can happen more easily, even from minor stress or injuries. 2. Chronic infections Since white blood cells protect our bodies from infection by producing antibodies, myeloma, which inhibits their functionality, can result in more chronic infections.
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The Top 5 Traditional Hot Spots For Respiratory Illnesses, Including Nasal Polyps
Health

The Top 5 Traditional Hot Spots For Respiratory Illnesses, Including Nasal Polyps

Respiratory illnesses can be a real nuisance, especially during the flu season. And with the ongoing pandemic, as well as increasing instances of respiratory syncytial (RSVl) virus, covid 19, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), adenovirus and parainfluenza, it’s more important than ever to take precautions to avoid catching or developing a respiratory illness. To help you stay safe and healthy, we’ve compiled a list of the top five traditional hot spots for respiratory illnesses (in your office and at home), along with some tips on how to prevent them: 1. Doorknobs, and appliance and drawer handles Doorknobs and drawer handles are some of the most touched surfaces in any home or office. Unfortunately, they can also be hot spots for respiratory illnesses, as they can easily spread germs from one person to another. To avoid getting sick, make sure to wash your hands regularly, and consider wiping down these surfaces with a disinfectant wipe every few hours. 2. Keyboards and electronics keypads Keyboards and electronics keypads can also harbor germs and bacteria. They are frequently touched and seldom cleaned, making them a perfect breeding ground for respiratory viruses. To keep these hot spots clean, consider using a disinfectant wipe or spray to clean your keyboard and electronics keypads daily.
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The Causes And Triggers Of Allergic Conditions
Health

The Causes And Triggers Of Allergic Conditions

Allergic conditions are becoming increasingly common in modern society, with millions of people worldwide suffering from a range of symptoms. Some of the most common allergic conditions include asthma and rhinitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, oral allergy syndrome, atopic dermatitis, and angioedema. While the causes and triggers of allergic conditions can vary, there are several common factors that can contribute to their development. Keep reading as we explore five of the most significant causes and triggers of allergic conditions: 1. Environmental factors Environmental factors such as pollution, climate change, and exposure to allergens can also trigger allergic reactions. Air pollution, for example, can exacerbate asthma symptoms, while exposure to pollen can trigger hay fever. Climate change has also been linked to an increase in allergies, as rising temperatures and carbon dioxide levels cause plants to produce more pollen. 2. Food allergies Food allergies are another common trigger for allergic reactions. Some of the most common food allergen triggers include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, and eggs. Symptoms of food allergies can range from mild to severe, with anaphylaxis being the most severe and potentially life-threatening. 3. Medications Medications can also trigger allergic reactions in some people. Antibiotics, in particular, are a common cause of drug allergies.
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5 Warning Signs of Ovarian Cancer
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5 Warning Signs of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer symptoms can be elusive, often masquerading as common ailments. Recognizing the warning signs is pivotal for early detection and treatment. Familiarizing yourself with the subtle cues that your body might be signaling is crucial. Here are five key ovarian cancer warning signs to be aware of: 1. Bloating Persistent bloating, feeling full quickly, or a sensation of abdominal swelling, particularly if it persists for more than a few weeks, can be a sign. Women often overlook this symptom, attributing it to normal digestive issues. However, if the bloating is consistent and unrelated to your usual digestive patterns, it warrants attention. 2. Abdominal pain Mild to severe pain in the abdominal or pelvic region that lasts for an extended period is a significant indicator. It may manifest as a constant ache or sharp pain, typically lingering for more than a few weeks. While occasional discomfort is common, consistent or worsening pain should prompt a medical evaluation. 3. Back pain Unexplained back pain, often focused on the lower back, can be an overlooked symptom of ovarian cancer. This pain might persist despite usual remedies or massages. If there’s no apparent cause for the discomfort and it persists, it’s advisable to investigate further, especially when coupled with other symptoms.
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5 Foods To Help Manage Menopause Symptoms
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5 Foods To Help Manage Menopause Symptoms

Menopause is a normal process of a female’s life, typically occurring around their mid-40s when estrogen levels begin to decline, hindering the body’s natural ability to ovulate. Menopause symptoms are different for everyone, but most often include irregular periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, chills, night sweats, sleep problems, mood changes, slowed metabolism, thinning hair, and so on. Luckily, menopause treatments can assist with menopause management, with things like hormone therapy, vaginal estrogen, low-dose antidepressants, and more. However, it is also possible that your diet may influence your menopausal experience—with that being said, here are 5 foods that help manage menopause symptoms: 1. Fish 8 ounces of fish is recommended per week, particularly fattier species like salmon and tuna, for a great source of omega-3 fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Those who consume more oily fish may potentially experience less severe hot flashes, and some research suggests that regular fish-eaters may experience less depression, which can be helpful for women beginning midlife 2. Yogurt Active cultures in yogurt are probiotic and rich in protein and calcium, which are essential for women in menopause. Women experiencing menopause are more likely to develop osteoporosis, making the consumption of foods that support bone health crucial.
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9 Warning Signs of Anemia
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9 Warning Signs of Anemia

Anemia is a condition where the body is not producing enough red blood cells or hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells which carry oxygen to the organs from the lungs. This can cause many health issues, and because of the different variations of anemia, Anemia Symptoms can be mild or even fatal. Knowing Anemia Warning Signs can be extremely helpful in prevention and treatment options. Here are the most common signs you should look out for: 1. Shortness of breath One of the early indicators of anemia is a sudden and unexplained shortness of breath. When your body lacks sufficient red blood cells, oxygen delivery to tissues becomes compromised, causing you to feel breathless even with minimal exertion. If you find yourself gasping for air more often than usual, it’s time to consult with a healthcare professional. 2. Unusual tiredness Feeling constantly fatigued despite getting adequate sleep may be a red flag for anemia. When there’s a shortage of red blood cells, your body has to work harder to perform everyday tasks, leaving you feeling unusually tired and lacking energy. If that 8-hour sleep isn’t enough to recharge your batteries, anemia could be a culprit. 3.
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5 Common Causes of Tinnitus
Health

5 Common Causes of Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the perception of sound with no external source—meaning other people cannot hear it. It commonly is described as a ringing sound, but some others experience a roaring or buzzing. With the condition being so common, approximately 10-25% of adults have it, there are some treatment options and hearing solutions, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and tinnitus therapy that each can help reduce symptoms and improve hearing. Here are 5 common causes of tinnitus: 1. Noise exposure Most individuals are diagnosed with tinnitus after exposure to loud noise, whether that’s in the workplace, a concert, a sporting event, and so on. This condition is the most common service-related disability among veterans, due to the loud noise experienced from gunfire, machinery, bomb blasts, or other relative noises. 2. Hearing loss Hearing loss is often attributed to aging or exposure to loud noise, and it is strongly associated with tinnitus. However, it is possible that individuals with hearing loss will never experience tinnitus. 3. Medications It’s important to always read the side effects of medications, as tinnitus can even be caused by certain medications—especially if they’re taken at high doses. Common medications that are associated with tinnitus include non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (e.g.
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Medicare Myths: 5 Things Not Covered By Medicare
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Medicare Myths: 5 Things Not Covered By Medicare

When you think of Medicare, you probably think of medical coverage for seniors. And while that is a critical aspect of Medicare, there are several different parts to the program. Each part covers different services, and some parts have gaps in coverage that you may not be aware of. Below, we look at what isn’t covered by Medicare and dispel some common myths about the program: 1. Routine dental exams and treatment Medicare coverage doesn’t include routine dental exams, cleanings, fillings, or extractions. There are a few exceptions, however. If you need dental care to have surgery that Medicare covers, then Medicare will also cover the necessary dental care. For example, Medicare will cover the extraction if you need a tooth extraction before heart surgery. Medicare will also cover dental care related to an injury, such as a jaw fracture. But for routine dental care, you’ll have to pay out of pocket or purchase an individual dental insurance plan. 2. Long term care Medicare coverage does not include long-term care, such as nursing home care. Also, Medicare will not pay for custodial care, which is the kind of care you need when you can no longer take care of yourself.
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