Quite a few things can cause bad eyesight, and one of these major factors is aging. However, there are some day-to-day choices we make and activities we partake in that slowly but surely impact our eyesight. This article discusses some obvious and not-so-obvious things that weaken our vision and force us to visit an ophthalmologist. Most of these causes are rooted in lifestyle habits and linked to preexisting health conditions. Too much screen time Sitting on the computer for extended hours is quite detrimental to eye health. The majority of the population spends time staring at their laptops, phones, or television. Screen pixels on the screen emit blue rays. While these rays are not as harsh on the eyes as UV rays, they have a better penetrative range and can end up causing deeper damage. Other side-effects of extended screen time include dry eyes, pricking of the eyes, strained eyesight, and headaches that can result in progressive worsening of the condition. Rubbing the eyes Rubbing the eyes can be an unconscious reaction for those dealing with dry eyes. It’s difficult to control the urge when allergies trigger itchy eyes. This can damage the cornea and increase pressure on the eyes. A better option is to cover the eyes with a damp towel to relieve itchy and dry eyes. Not wearing sunglasses We often end up treating sunglasses as a fashion accessory more than a necessity. While there is nothing wrong with that, it is equally essential to choose the right pair of sunglasses based on the protection they provide. For example, smaller framed sunglasses fail to provide optimal protection. Their UV protective ability determines the sunglasses’ effectiveness instead of the darkness of the shades. Poor eating habits Empty calories and food filled with additives and preservatives contribute to poor vision.

Poor blood circulation can occur due to a number of health conditions. These include peripheral artery disease or PAD, diabetes, and Raynaud’s disease. While these require treatments prescribed by healthcare professionals, eating certain foods to improve blood count and blood circulation can also help. These foods also benefit athletes and those who indulge in physical activities to improve recovery and stamina. Here are some of these few foods to add to everyday meals. Broccoli One of the healthiest cruciferous vegetables is broccoli, which is packed with several nutrients. It is a rich source of vitamin B9 or folate. This nutrient is important to increase the count of red blood cells in the body. Adding broccoli to salads, stir-fried meals, and other food options can help the body produce red blood cells quicker, thus improving blood count and blood circulation. Bananas Adding bananas to cereal or having banana smoothies is not just filling but also extremely good for blood. This is because bananas are one of the richest sources of potassium. Potassium can lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. This is especially helpful if there is an excess of sodium in the body. High levels of sodium can lead to high blood pressure. However, the presence of potassium in the bananas flushes the additional sodium through the urine. This helps to improve blood circulation. Cayenne pepper This bright red pepper adds spice to sauces, dips, and chili oil. In addition, it has tons of nutritional benefits too. These benefits come from the compound known as capsaicin that lends cayenne pepper its spicy hot flavor. This compound optimizes the functions of the arteries. As a result, the muscles in the blood vessels relax. This controls blood pressure and improves blood circulation. Beetroot This vibrant, colorful veggie is packed with fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C.

Overactive bladder or OAB is a condition that groups some urinary symptoms, pointing toward bladder problems. It is not a disease but a set of symptoms. For some people, the symptoms can get so severe that it affects their social and work life and sleep. The frequent bathroom breaks can also dent one’s confidence, making them feel isolated and lonely. Here are some signs to notice and management tips to follow. Signs and symptoms Some signs and symptoms, if mild, may seem like regular bowel movements. However, observing and recognizing irregularities is essential for early detection, treatment, and management. Here are some signs to notice: Urgency to urinate Having a frequent urge to urinate is the most common and major symptom of OAB. The individual cannot ignore the strong and sudden urge to urinate; in fact, some people are afraid that there will be a leak if they do not use the bathroom immediately. Leaking urine Urge incontinence is another symptom. Under this, the urine may leak when there is a sudden urge to go to the bathroom. However, it is not to be confused with stress urinary incontinence. In Stress urinary incontinence, the person may leak urine during sneezing, laughing, or other physically strenuous activities. Urinate frequently Apart from the sudden urge to urinate, one may have to go to the bathroom frequently throughout the day. Experts suggest that going to the bathroom more than eight times daily is “frequent urination.” Waking up at night due to urgency If someone has to wake up at night in the middle of sleep, more than once, to relieve themselves, then it may point towards OAB. Management tips There are several treatment options for OAB, which may work for different individuals. Lifestyle changes can help control frequent urination. One of these changes is to limit the intake of certain foods and drinks that may irritate the bladder.

This autoimmune disease is characterized as an inflammatory disease that attacks the lining of the joints in the body. The inflammation around the joints causes swelling, tenderness, and pain. This chronic disease may affect one or multiple joints at once. Over a period, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can lead to bone erosion and joint deformity. Given the seriousness of this long-term illness, we have enlisted things that can worsen rheumatoid arthritis. Too much rest is not a good idea Moving around with rheumatoid arthritis could get challenging, but adopting an active lifestyle is instead a smarter thing to do. Doing daily chores, going for a stroll, and picking hobbies like gardening keeps. An active lifestyle rewards the body in the long run. After all, working out is one of the most important ways to lessen the disability associated with this condition. Exercise regularly can improve strength and flexibility in those with rheumatoid arthritis. Stronger muscles can support the joints well; on the other hand, better flexibility can aid joint function. Skipping treatment It’s not wise to stop treatment or avoid taking the prescribed tablets for the condition. If a dose is missed, it’s advised to have it as soon as possible. Most people stop physiotherapy or taking tablets after they feel better. Avoid strenuous physical activity Avoid lifting heavy groceries or stuff around the house or at work. This can put immense pressure on the inflamed joints and lead to faster bone erosion. Avoid eating packaged foods Any disease is treated with medical intervention in combination with a healthy food regime. Avoid packaged foods, frozen dinners, and sugary juices available in cartons. These commercially available foods come with tons of additives, preservatives, sugar, and salt to increase their shelf life. Most of these food products contain empty calories and are addictive.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of a robust immune system, particularly for respiratory health, has come to the forefront. The respiratory system, crucial for oxygen exchange and overall well-being, is often susceptible to infections and disorders. It is also responsible for delivering oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. This comprehensive guide explores ways, encompassing treatments, changes in food habits and lifestlye, and home remedies, to boost immunity against respiratory viruses. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical importance of a healthy respiratory system. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions faced heightened risks, with the virus primarily targeting the lungs. Even those without prior conditions were prompted to reevaluate their lung health. This collective concern has spurred interest in proactive measures to fortify the respiratory system. Here are a few ways to enhance the immune system: Treatment options Vaccinations stand as a cornerstone in the fight against severe respiratory viruses. They equip the immune system to recognize and combat specific pathogens, protecting against subsequent infections. There are two primary types of vaccines: mRNA and non-mRNA options. While mRNA vaccines have gained significant attention, non-mRNA alternatives like Novavax contribute to the immunization effort. Novavax, a protein subunit vaccine, employs a different mechanism to stimulate immune responses, providing an additional option for those seeking protection. Foods for respiratory health Food plays a pivotal role in supporting respiratory health. Certain foods are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that benefit lung function. Incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers, can aid in maintaining healthy airways. Omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel also demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties, supporting lung health. Additionally, foods abundant in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, assist in combating oxidative stress, a factor linked to respiratory conditions.

High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, is a primary concern for people with diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic health condition affecting about 13% of the adults in the country. Maintaining healthy levels of blood sugar is vital, as raised blood sugar levels for long periods can lead to various complications, including heart, kidney, eye, and nerve diseases. Here are the most effective ways to lower blood sugar for diabetes management: Treatment These prescription treatments can help manage diabetes: GlucoTrust It’s an FDA-approved, 100% natural supplement for type 1 and type 2 diabetes treatment. INVOKANA® INVOKANA® helps control blood sugar and lower the risk of kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes. Kerendia® This is a once-daily tablet for type 2 diabetics. It helps decrease the rate of kidney damage and the risk of cardiovascular, heart attack, and more. Another effective method to control blood sugar levels is insulin therapy. All people with type 1 diabetes and some of those with type 2 diabetes need to take insulin, which is typically administered through a shot or insulin pump. For better diabetes management, it’s advisable to use tools like the Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System. It’s a modern, feature-rich device that helps manage diabetes without fingersticks or calibration. Things to avoid It’s crucial to avoid doing anything that can counter an individual’s effort to manage diabetes. This primarily includes steering clear of foods that can raise blood sugar levels and increase the risk of diabetes complications, such as French fries, margarine, white rice, flavored yogurt, and sweetened breakfast cereal. It’s also important to limit or avoid intake of refined carbs, such as cakes, candies, sodas, and fruit juices. One must also limit or avoid processed foods or meats as they’re full of salt and oil. In addition, one should not exercise on an empty or full stomach and try not to miss any oral prescription treatment.

Millennials are all for quick fixes, and you cannot blame them as they need to be on par with their fast-paced life. Our tendency to opt for things that make our lives easier now includes foods as well; we would prefer heating the pan pizza for breakfast rather than take the efforts to make scrambled eggs. When the weigh scale shoots past one’s previous weight is when realization dawns upon them that there are no quick fixes to losing those extra pounds. Though you can conquer the three important meals of the day without giving in to any temptations, snack time is when your conviction is tested. It is always easier to buy processed food off the shelves of the supermarket rather than toiling in the kitchen to make the perfect healthy snack. No one said that making healthy food choices will be easy, so, instead of navigating your way to the ready-to-make snacks or potato chips to satisfy your hunger, you can try some easy healthy snack ideas that the Internet is rife with. Here are some of the easy healthy snack ideas that wouldn’t require you to spend hours in the kitchen and can satisfy your hunger pangs as well. Chia seed pudding Everyone loves pudding! However, it’s not the right choice if you wish to eat healthily and control your sweet tooth. So, instead of your regular pudding, you can treat yourself to chia seed pudding. The major ingredients used for concocting this delicious healthy snack are organic coconut milk and three tablespoons of organic chia seeds. All you to have to do is mix these ingredients in a mason jar and add cinnamon or honey as a sweetener. Allow this mixture to sit overnight, and relish it the next day. Hummus and veggies mason jar This is an extremely easy healthy snack idea and doesn’t require chef-like skills.

Following a diet can be difficult, especially because you’re expected to be strict in terms of timing and quantity. Nonetheless, following a diet doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in delicious food. Herein, we have put together five recipes that will help you stay on a diet while indulging in quick and delicious food every day. One-pot chicken with lemon, herbs, and rice Within half an hour, you can create a dinner that is delicious, low on calories, and easy. Just take a deep pot, melt some butter in it, and toss the chicken in. Then, add the rice, broth, seasoning, and previously half-cooked chicken. This recipe is very customizable and can be easily frozen to be eaten later. Three-ingredient salmon Three ingredients and less than half an hour in the kitchen are enough to create an incredibly healthy and delicious dinner that will seem almost seamless. You will need fresh salmon, some lemon juice, and seasoning. Simply marinate the salmon in freshly squeezed lemon juice and seasoning. Bake for ten minutes and serve along with some rice or noodles. One-pan chicken breast with tomatoes and garlic This is one of the healthiest and tastiest options for anyone who’s on a diet. First, you need to season and sear the chicken in the pan until cooked. Next, cook the tomatoes in the same pan. You can also add some mushrooms or cheese here. Lastly, pour the chicken into the tomatoes, and voila, your quick and delicious chicken with tomatoes and garlic is ready Tomato sourdough soup This low-calorie meal is tasty, quick, and super-easy to make. Begin by tossing the onions in a pan until translucent, followed by fresh tomatoes. Add the vegetable broth, seasoning, and sourdough bread and cook for a couple of minutes. Give it a quick mix and your delicious vegetarian tomato soup is ready.

As a dog owner, one of the biggest concerns to tackle is fleas and tick infestation. These parasites feed off the pets’ blood, causing excessive scratching and irritation. There is a variety of flea and tick repellents in the market. However, it is necessary to be aware of natural remedies. The following article lists some of the most effective treatments to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs at home: Clinical options Before discussing natural remedies to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs, it is also important to be aware of clinical treatment options. Simparica® This is one such option that prevents flea and tick infestation in dogs. The FDA-approved oral treatment option can be given once a month which remains effective for up to 35 days. Other treatment options Other options include Bravecto® and K9 Advantix®, where the latter is a topical treatment used on a monthly basis, and the former is an oral treatment option used once in three months. Bravecto® can also be used for getting rid of heartworm. Foods to eat Experts say that fleas and ticks are likely to attack weak and unhealthy animals. If your dog is given healthy and nutritious foods, fleas and tick infestation won’t be a problem. Make sure your dog’s meal comprises of fresh whole foods and unprocessed proteins. Nutrients such as B vitamins, probiotics, sulfur, omega-6 fatty acids, and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for their health. These nutrients can be acquired from foods like meats, organ meats, fatty fish, flaxseed, poultry, eggs, broccoli, cauliflower, and more. Natural home remedies Essential oils The topical application of essential oils is one of the best natural remedies for treating fleas and tick infestation in dogs. It’s best to use essential oils like lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, cedar oil, or eucalyptus oil.

Eczema is a health condition in which the skin gets extremely dry, leading to itchy patches. A disciplined lifestyle can help manage the symptoms, but since this is a chronic disease, it can get increasingly uncomfortable and overwhelming. Therefore, loved ones should provide those with eczema a safe space to share their troubles and educate others on the subject. Here are some facts about eczema to create more awareness and empathy. Eczema is not “just a rash” Unlike what most people falsely assume, eczema is more than just a rash. It is a chronic condition that needs extreme care and attention to be managed on a daily basis. This involves staying away from environmental triggers, soaps, shampoos, and any product that may lead to unprecedented flare-ups. Even food choices need a lot of screening. Itchy skin can cause insomnia Eczema flare-ups can also occur during the night. When that happens, it gets incredibly uncomfortable for patients to sleep due to itchy skin. This sleep disruption affects anywhere between 33% to 87.1% of adults and close to 83% of children with the condition. A lack of sleep, in turn, causes other complications like stress and irritability. Poor hygiene is not the cause Eczema is an auto-immune disease and does not occur due to poor hygiene. However, those already suffering from the condition may experience flare-ups due to improper hygiene. Therefore, patients need extreme care when it comes to cleanliness. Choosing shampoo, soap, cleaning products, and even clothes can be difficult, and keeping a checklist of things can get exhausting. It affects mental health While eczema is a physical condition, its complications and flare-ups can easily lead to stress and anxiety, not to mention the taboo around the disease and social perception, which can give rise to alienation and loneliness. It is important for patients to have a support group that helps them navigate through the complicated emotions they may experience while battling the disease.

Esophageal cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the esophagus. The mutation usually begins in the cells that line the inside of the esophagus and could develop anywhere in this tube. Various treatments and natural remedies could help in managing the condition. However, one must visit a healthcare professional to diagnose cancer early and ensure the best treatment results. Understanding the warning signs of the condition is essential for early diagnosis and management. Trouble swallowing Sometimes people may have dysphagia, which is trouble with swallowing. And these symptoms may often be misdiagnosed as other health conditions, such as eosinophilic esophagitis – an inflammation of the esophagus caused by a specific white blood cell. However, difficulty with swallowing might also occur due to the growth of cancer cells in the esophagus. The trouble might be mild at first but worsen as cancer grows and the opening inside the esophagus gets smaller. Pain in the chest Pain or discomfort in the middle region or a burning, pressurized-like sensation on the chest is often associated with conditions like heartburn. But discomfort in the chest may also be a symptom of the development of esophageal cancer. Therefore, someone who experiences this sign should get an expert’s opinion immediately. Hoarseness A hoarse, scratchy voice or a cough that occurs occasionally could indicate a mild health condition that may go away in a few days. But if these symptoms persist, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer and must be checked by a healthcare expert immediately. The change in voice happens when the tumor squeezes up against one’s vocal cords. Vomiting As a tumor narrows the passage in the esophagus, it could become harder to push the food through, so when an individual eats a meal, they may vomit because the food gets stuck in the esophagus.

Gastroenterologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating digestive tract disorders. This can include problems ranging from the passage of gas, celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome to even colon cancer, and more. While asking them certain questions can be embarrassing, one must not shy away from them. Instead, one must enquire about the issues to receive more information. Keep reading to know more about these questions and why they must be asked. Is passing a lot of gas an issue? Usually, one may release gas in the form of burps or even farts, but most people do not know that this gas forms due to many reasons. While the passage of gas is completely natural, sometimes when it builds up, it can lead to bloating and abdominal pain. This often occurs when the patient regularly eats fatty foods, has an increased level of stress, eats too quickly, or has irritable bowel syndrome. In such cases, gastroenterologists may provide a diagnosis of the underlying issue and develop a treatment plan. How do I know if my stool is normal? Typically, stool can be of different colors, shapes, and sizes. It must be log-like and have cracks on its surface. This usually indicates a healthy digestive system. However, when its consistency is watery or fluffy, it means that the person is sick, has food poisoning, or has an intestinal or digestive problem. In addition to the above, poop that is greyish, blackish, or even reddish can indicate issues in the body that may require treatment. What can cause stomach discomfort? In most cases, slight stomach discomfort may be nothing to worry about. But if the pain persists it could signify serious health issues. Additionally, experiencing bloating or diarrhea can be a problem. When one consults a gastroenterologist, the specialist will first go through the symptoms and deduce the origin of the problem.