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7 common warning signs of prostate cancer
Health

7 common warning signs of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a condition wherein healthy cells in a man’s prostate begin growing aggressively and out of control. If left unchecked, this tumor can spread to nearby organs such as the rectum, bladder, and others. In such instances, this disease is likely to become life-threatening. Fortunately, prostate cancer is often highly curable if healthcare professionals diagnose and treat it at an early stage. Some of the common warning signs of prostate cancer are listed below. Stiffness in the lower back If the tumor is not dealt with during its initial stages, prostate cancer spreads to several areas encompassing the lower back region in a person’s body. The malignant cells can negatively affect the bones, leading to a condition known as bone metastasis. Eventually, cancer affects the spine and triggers back stiffness and pain in people. This symptom can sometimes make it hard for patients to sit. Frequent urination As mentioned earlier, in its advanced stages, prostate cancer can affect surrounding organs, such as the bladder, urethra, and, in the long term, kidneys if it spreads. The urethra and the bladder are two organs close to the prostate gland. So, as the prostate enlarges out of control due to cancerous cell growth, it puts pressure on the bladder, which in turn causes people to feel the urgent need to urinate more often than usual.
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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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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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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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Health

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.
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Health

6 toxic plants to keep away from dogs

It has become the norm to keep ornamental at home, especially since they beautify the space tremendously. But, if you are a pet parent, you must exercise caution in picking the potted plants you want. While some plants can cause vomiting or dysentery, a few can cause respiratory, digestive, neurological, or cardiac problems, leading to death. If you have become a pet parent recently, here are six plants toxic to dogs to note: 6 plants that dog parents must take note of Sago palm Sago palm is a very popular ornamental plant for indoor and outdoor spaces. It is known by many names like coontie palms or cardboard palms and is part of the Cycads group of plants. It contains multiple toxins, including cycasin and BMAA. Every part of the sago palm is toxic for your dogs, and the seeds can be the most dangerous. If a dog ingests even a small amount of any part of a sago palm plant, it can affect its nervous system, liver, or gastrointestinal system. You may see symptoms within 15 minutes or many hours. The most common reaction is gastrointestinal irritation, with initial symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also lead to serious complications like neurological problems, resulting in weakness, seizures, and tremors.
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Pets

6 human foods that cats can safely eat

Cats are picky eaters, but they may jump with glee if you share a titbit from your plate. Felines love variety in food, and you can share some of your food if it is nutritious and non-toxic. Moderation is the key when you feed human food to your cat so that it does not cause any allergies or digestive issues. Here is a list of six human foods that are safe for your cats: Eggs Small quantities of cooked eggs are good for cats. You can set aside a tablespoon of scrambled egg or a piece of a boiled egg while you cook some for yourself. Don’t season it, add any oil or butter, or  feed raw eggs or yolks. Eggs contain a protein called Avidin that may prevent the absorption of Vitamin B. Raw eggs could contain Salmonella, a bacteria that can infect the GI tract of both cats and humans. Severe infection may lead to death in cats, while humans may need hospitalization. Vegetables Cats are carnivores and are partial to meat; a non-meat diet may not excite them as much. However, you can feed small portions of a few vegetables that can supply your cat’s fiber, protein, and nutrition requirements.
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Pets

4 tips to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs

Dogs get affected with fleas or ticks due to spending time on grassy trails, lush parks, or moist areas. And these pests can cause itching and skin damage if not controlled in time. Flea and ticks leave eggs and larvae on the coat, which can be challenging to eradicate. They can also lead to Lyme disease and other debilitating conditions. Following are tips to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs: Consider the following treatment options Bravecto chew Bravecto chew is a chewable treatment option that you can administer along with your dog’s food. It contains fluralaner, an active ingredient that spreads quickly through the dog’s tissues and the skin. Fleas and ticks in the coat ingest minute amounts of fluralaner, which affects their central nervous system, killing them within 12 hours. One dose of Bravecto is effective for about 12 weeks. If your dog is sensitive to the treatment option and vomits within three hours of ingestion, contact your vet, as it may be less impactful in killing the ticks and fleas. Bravecto is also effective in preventing heartworms and intestinal worms. Simparica This prescription treatment option is ideal for dogs over six months and can be administered monthly.

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7 common plants that are dangerous for cats

7 common plants that are dangerous for cats

Cats are naturally curious and tend to grab and play with things they find in their environment. So, they can end up grabbing or even chewing on dangerous plants, which can cause multiple complications and health-related issues. Cat parents should exercise caution when exposing their feline companions to outdoor environments or their own home and garden that can house poisonous plants. Some of the common plants that are toxic to cats are: Amaryllis Amaryllis is a popular indoor and outdoor plant that is grown in pots and containers, making it a popular gift during the holiday season. Cats can be drawn to its vibrant flowers, however, the plant contains toxins like lycorine and phenanthridine alkaloids. While the bulbs have the highest concentration of toxins, the stalks are also poisonous to cats. If ingested, cats can experience symptoms like drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. They may even seem lazy, lethargic, and show no willingness to eat. Other severe effects include a drop in their blood pressure and seizures. Autumn crocus The autumn crocus contains colchicine and other alkaloids, which can be toxic to many animals, including cats. If cats chew on the flower or seeds of this ornamental plant, they can experience vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling.
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Top 5 human foods that are also safe for dogs

Top 5 human foods that are also safe for dogs

If you own a pet, you know that every time you eat, your dog sits right next to you in hopes that you’ll share your food. Human food can be safe for dogs if it doesn’t contain toxins. Every pet owner must know which food is and isn’t suitable for your furry friend. This way, you can feed your dog the right foods. Here are some foods you can share with your dogs without hesitation: Fish Just like omega-3 fatty acids benefits humans, it can also help dogs fight inflammation. Fish is also an alternative source of protein for dogs that may be allergic to red meat. Ensure that you cook it well without too much oil and seasoning. Raw fish may contain salmonella and listeria, causing infection for the dog and your family. Clean and pick the bones well before serving them. Fish bones are risky for dogs, as they can lodge in their mouth, throat, and intestines or perforate their organ walls. Choose fish that have lower mercury levels. Ideal fish for dogs include tuna, whitefish, cod, and whiting. Meat Meat is a natural dog-friendly food, as they are carnivores. If you are preparing the meat at home, choose lean ground beef, chuck steak, chicken, turkey, or roast.
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Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Fashion trends are dynamic and go through constant change and innovation. While some styles have remained timeless for decades, some trends fail to impress and disappear without making an impact. The approach to beauty today focuses on sustainability, minimalism, inclusion, and no cruelty. The trends in beauty and fashion quite naturally follow similar lines. Based on these factors, some of the top beauty and fashion trends in the coming year are as follows: Skincare The buzzword in the last couple of years has been minimalism, especially for skin care. Women prefer to use lesser products for their skincare routines. Utilizing a bevy of cosmetics for everyday skin nourishment and enhancement is time-consuming, overwhelming, and may affect the skin negatively. Skincare trends focus on improving skin health and reducing the negative impact of long-term use of skin-related products. This move hopes to reduce the overuse of skincare and control the damage caused by chemical products. Microbiome skincare is a new trend, featuring prebiotic and probiotic components that nourish the skin. Hybrid beauty Hybrid cosmetics combine multiple active ingredients that now work both as skin care products and as cosmetics. It reduces the time one spends on beauty routine and the number of products one needs to buy, saving money, effort, and time.
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Top 5 cat foods that are recommended by vets

Top 5 cat foods that are recommended by vets

Cats are strict carnivores by nature, and their bodies cannot digest a carbohydrate-rich diet. And pet parents must feed them a nutritionally balanced diet matching their weight, age, lifestyle, and current health condition. Look for food with animal protein as the prime ingredient and has fatty acids, essential amino acids, and minerals. If you are unsure of what food to choose, you can consider the following vet-recommended food for your cats: Human-Grade Fresh, Wet Cat Food by Smalls Smalls is an ultra-high protein USDA-certified cat food subscription service that uses humanely harvested and human-grade ingredients. Trained chefs prepare the food avoiding cheaper fillers like carbs and grains that add volume and reduce cost. The food does not contain any preservatives. You can choose from chicken, a combination of chicken and turkey, beef, or fish for fresh food. Freeze-dried raw cat food is available in turkey, duck, and chicken flavors. While fresh meals can go to the freezer, freeze-dried raw food can be in the pantry. One package may last five meals, and you must read the instructions to store the leftover package properly to avoid contamination. The approximate cost of Smalls cat food is $2.50 to $3.50 daily. Pro Plan® Focus Adult Weight Management Cat food by Purina® Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Weight Management Cat food is available without a prescription and is a less expensive alternative for weight loss diets.
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