6 uncomfortable questions to ask a gastroenterologist
Health

6 uncomfortable questions to ask a gastroenterologist

The gastrointestinal system is one of the most important elements in an individual’s overall health. Therefore, discussing each aspect, whether it concerns digestion or excretion, is essential. Since one may find it embarrassing to talk about these topics with others, it is best to speak to a gastroenterologist instead. The individual should know that discussing these questions with the expert is normal. When it comes to gastrointestinal symptoms, there’s no better place than a health clinic. What is the cause of excessive gas? An individual may pass more gas than usual but neglect to speak about it. However, it is one of the most important processes in gastrointestinal health and should be discussed with an expert. Passing excessive gas could occur due to flatulence – a process where one swallows more air than usual. It could also occur when the person eats food that cannot be digested easily. Excessive gas could occur due to health conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome or recurring digestion. And speaking with an expert could help relieve any stress caused by the condition and look for suitable remedies. Why are feces colored unusually differently? Another common topic most people avoid discussing is the unusual color of feces.
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7 signs of unhealthy skin that need attention
Health

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.
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7 warning signs of bone cancer to be aware of
Health

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.
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8 warning signs of low bone density
Health

8 warning signs of low bone density

Sometimes the creation of new bone cannot keep up with the loss of old material, known as osteoporosis. The condition could result in symptoms that may affect one’s ability to carry out daily tasks. A healthcare expert may recommend prescriptions and lifestyle changes to manage bone complications. But these treatment options may work better if the condition is diagnosed early. So here are eight signs of low bone mineral density that must be addressed immediately. Receding gums The gums may recede due to multiple factors, including aggressive brushing, genetics, and other unhealthy habits. However, this sign could also indicate a reduction in bone density. The oral complication is usually subtle and might require an expert’s opinion. Furthermore, the teeth and jaw bones are connected. So when the latter starts to lose bone mineral density, it could result in receding gums, which may also affect the health of teeth. Weakened grip strength The loss of grip strength could be an indicator of low bone mineral density triggered by osteoporosis. Some common signs that one should look for include the reduced ability to open doors easily, push objects, or grab onto structures properly. These are signs that the individual may have lost muscle strength.
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8 early warning signs of osteoporosis
Health

8 early warning signs of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that is characterized by the weakening of bones. The bones become so brittle that even a mild strain can cause a fracture. This happens because the new bone tissues are not regenerating fast enough to replace the old tissues. The exact cause behind this has yet to be discovered. However, several early warning signs indicate susceptibility to osteoporosis, especially among women. These help in timely diagnosis and treatment.  Low bone density Low bone density means that the mineral density in your bones has declined. Due to this, the body cannot generate new bone at the same rate as it absorbs the old bone. This condition is called osteopenia. Although being diagnosed with osteopenia doesn’t indicate osteoporosis, it is one of the early warning signs. This is because low bone density often precedes severe osteoporosis. If you have been diagnosed with osteopenia, consult your primary care doctor for regular tests and examinations to prevent further bone loss. Brittle bones Another tell-tale early warning sign of osteoporosis is brittle bones. Therefore, there is a higher risk of breaking a bone. These fractures usually occur in the wrist, spine, and hips. However, fractures can occur in any part of the body.
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7 worst foods and beverages that damage teeth
Health

7 worst foods and beverages that damage teeth

Foods and beverages supply much-needed fuel for the body to support vital functions. However, certain lifestyle choices and daily eating habits can severely affect oral hygiene. There is an increased risk of cavities, gum decay, tooth decay, and bacterial infections due to the overconsumption of common foods and beverages. Here are six such daily consumables that should be taken in moderation or eliminated to maintain good teeth and gum health in the long run. Sugar-rich foods Refined sugar, be it used for making sweets, candies, baked goods, confectioneries, processed ready-to-eat foods, and even flavored drinks, are bad for the teeth. Sugar supplies a steady energy source for bacteria to feast on and rapidly multiply, causing cavities. Sugar also increases the risk of plaque buildup, which can further cause gum infections and speed up tooth decay. Refined carbohydrate-rich foods Carbohydrates are a good source of fuel for the body and should be included in daily nutrition. However, most foods bought off the shelves in the supermarket are loaded with refined carbohydrates. These carbs are bad for overall health, and the sticky residue left behind after chewing becomes a harboring ground for bacteria. Also, saliva breaks down carbohydrates into sugar due to an instantaneous reaction and, as a result, increases the risk of cavities.
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5 tips for healthy lungs
Health

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.
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11 early signs of Parkinson’s to never ignore
Health

11 early signs of Parkinson’s to never ignore

Parkinson’s is a neurological disorder that primarily disrupts communication from the brain resulting in uncontrolled and unexpected movements. It affects specific neurons that carry the signals and impulses from the brain to control vital organs and functions. Parkinson’s is progressive disorder, and there is no cure for the condition yet. However, knowing and identifying many early symptoms is beneficial to improve the outlook on living with the condition. Here are 11 early warning signs to never ignore. Tremors Resting tremors are among the first warning signs of developing Parkinson’s. These tremors are not noticeable when the person is using the hand but show up as soon as it is in a more relaxed position. The uncontrolled shaking starts with the thumb and progresses to affect the entire hand. Severe rigidity The rigidity of the muscle groups and joints also indicates developing Parkinson’s problems. These discomforts significantly impact simple day-to-day actions like buttoning up shirts, picking up objects, or gripping things in general. These symptoms are even more problematic when combined with the tremors that develop on and off abruptly. Such muscle problems can deeply impact a person’s psyche as well. Balance issues Parkinson’s also impacts a person’s balance as it interferes with the brain and body’s coordination to send and receive signals that control gait.
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13 warning signs of dehydration
Health

13 warning signs of dehydration

Water constitutes approximately 71% of the earth’s surface and 60% of the human body, making it an indispensable element of life. The body requires adequate water to perform several vital functions, including digestion, protection of tissues and the spinal cord, urination, bowel movements, replenishment of cells, and perspiration. Unfortunately, multiple studies have shown that 75% of adults in the country suffer from chronic dehydration. This article lists the common side effects of not having enough water. Abnormal urination patterns Lack of water in the body significantly affects urination, leading to lower urine output than usual. Moreover, the frequency at which one passes urine also decreases. Finally, the color of one’s urine becomes darker and more concentrated, which may leave a burning sensation around the urethra. The odor of one’s urine may also be stronger when dehydrated. Dryness of the tongue, mouth, and lips The salivary glands in the body require optimal fluid content to produce saliva, which is essential for lubricating the mouth. Dehydration reduces the body’s fluid levels, leading to mouth, lips, and tongue dryness. Chapped lips are common among individuals with dehydration. Lack of saliva can impede digestion and cause dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
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Recognizing the warning signs of a seizure
Health

Recognizing the warning signs of a seizure

Seizures are a neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. They can occur at any age and can be caused by various factors, including genetics, head injuries, and infections. Seizures can be classified into two main categories: generalized and partial. Generalized seizures affect the entire brain, while partial seizures affect only a specific part. Recognizing the warning signs of a seizure is crucial for timely intervention and ensuring the safety of the affected person. Aura or premonitory symptoms Premonitory symptoms or aura are one of the common symptoms of seizures. The intensity, type, and presence of these symptoms can differ from person to person. Individuals may experience premonitory symptoms in the form of unusual smiles, tastes, visual disturbances, unexplained anxiety or fear, a sense of deja vu, or sudden mood changes. It is essential to identify and recognize these symptoms during the early stages. Identifying the early signs provides an invaluable opportunity to prepare for a seizure. Altered sensations A person might experience a wide range of sensory disturbances because of seizures. This includes a tingling sensation and numbness in various parts of the body, an altered perception of pain, touch, or temperature, and a sense of pressure or heaviness.
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6 clothing pieces that may affect one’s health
Health

6 clothing pieces that may affect one’s health

On the surface, what one wears may seem like the most non-influential aspect of their health and wellness. However, clothing affects an individual internally and externally, mostly health-wise, in more ways than one. Certain outfits, such as comfortable, breathable ones made from bamboo, linen, silk, or cotton, are considered “healthy clothing.” On the other hand, certain clothes have been found to be detrimental to the wearer’s health. Here are some such clothes that affect health adversely: Underwire bras Underwire bras are convenient to use, but studies have found that they can have potentially long-term health risks, including cuts and punctures from the sharp-ish wires, skin problems, long-term headaches, blocked milk ducts for nursing mothers, neck pain, uneasiness in the chest, indigestion, and several other problems. Some other health hazards posed by these types of bras include the metallic straps impeding the wearer’s blood flow and attracting undesirable electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs) to the breast areas, increasing the risk of radiation-based health issues like cancer in women over time. Tight underwear for men As is the case with tight bras for women, tight underwear can be problematic for men from a health perspective. Overly fitted underwear can drastically increase the temperature around a man’s testes, leading to eventual and permanent infertility and impotence.
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