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7 mistakes that can aggravate rheumatoid arthritis
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7 mistakes that can aggravate rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the inflammation of joints that leads to the degeneration of cartilage. The condition could be due to an autoimmune disease or due to wear and tear of the joints. It is estimated that over 50 million people (about 20% of the population) suffer from rheumatic conditions like arthritis. Avoiding certain habits could help lead a better life and manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Here are seven mistakes that can aggravate the condition:  Skipping treatment It is one of the most common mistakes that can worsen arthritis symptoms. Most people skip treatment as soon as they start feeling better. However, the condition can recur and worsen the pain to the extent that the patient might need to visit an ER. Hence, it is vital to seek treatment on time and never skip dosage for proper management of diseases. Treatment options such as Tremfya® and Plaquenil are used for relieving joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Actemra® is another treatment option that blocks the action of a protein called interleukin 6. Eating the following foods Food and nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining optimum health. While it is essential to include some foods to get relief from rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, the following foods must be avoided to prevent aggravation:
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3 crucial tips for managing lung cancer
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3 crucial tips for managing lung cancer

Cancer may develop in the lungs due to radiation therapy, asbestos, and carcinogens. Factors such as genetics may also trigger the development of lung cancer. There are more than 236,000 new cases of this disorder and its types every year. Those who develop lung cancer may notice symptoms including chest pains, hoarseness, and bone pain that turn severe with time. Here are three tips for one to manage lung cancer. Start a treatment plan The first tip for coping with lung cancer is to start a treatment plan as soon as the condition is diagnosed. There are two common types of lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). SCLC therapies About 20 of every 100 people with lung cancer are diagnosed with SCLC. This type of cancer is also fast growing compared to other lung cancer types. Preferred treatments for small cell lung cancer include chemotherapy, which involves eliminating lung cancer cells that may have spread outside the lung. Furthermore, radiation therapy is used for treating small cell lung cancer when the tumor is limited to the lung or areas inside the chest. The two therapies are often combined in such cases. Prescription for NSCLC NSCLC is a more common type of lung cancer that spreads gradually and much slower than small cell lung cancer.
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3 ways to manage hemophilia
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3 ways to manage hemophilia

Hemophilia is a disorder characterized by unusual bleeding that doesn’t stop quickly. People with hemophilia abnormally bleed continuously, even from a small cut or injury. This happens because the blood’s ability to clot is compromised. Abnormal bleeding can pose a high risk when the patient is undergoing surgery. This article highlights the different types of hemophilia, treatment options, and effective tips on how one can better manage the health condition: Treatment options Hemophilia is a genetically inherited health condition associated with a bleeding disorder. It needs to be managed with the help of treatment plans, nutritious foods, and healthy lifestyle habits. Treatment options for hemophilia include recombinant factor concentrates that work at building the protein factors required to clot the blood in hemophilia patients. The major products used in developing recombinant factors include VIII, IX, and VIIa.  Below are some treatment options that a specialist may prescribe to focus on clotting factors. Since there are different types of hemophilia, they all have different courses of treatment. However, some of the most common treatment options include: KOVALTRY® This treatment option is prescribed to manage hemophilia A, which is caused by the missing protein factor VIII. KOVALTRY® helps replace factor VIII or antihemophilic factors to limit bleeding.
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6 effective tips for relief from nasal congestion
Health

6 effective tips for relief from nasal congestion

Nasal congestion is a common discomfort caused by sinus and nasal cavity inflammation. An allergen could trigger it, or it could simply be a side effect of other diseases. Nasal congestion results in excess mucous production and swelling of the tissues and blood vessels in the nose. It is possible to manage these discomforts with FDA-approved prescriptions, simple changes in daily nutrition, and lifestyle remedies that improve the overall outlook, such as the following: Treatment options Doctors suggest prescriptions to primarily manage severe sinus congestion and nasal inflammation symptoms. Allegra® Allegra® is an FDA-approved prescription that belongs to a class of antihistamines formulated to provide relief from nasal congestion and common allergies. There are separate non-drowsy fast-acting formulas for children and adults available in the form of sprays, liquids, and more for direct consumption. Allegra® helps counter the histamine production that could result in a runny nose, sneezing, itching, and water eyes, among other common symptoms of cold and allergies. Foods to eat and ease nasal congestion Many daily foods and beverages can help manage symptoms and counter inflammation caused by nasal congestion and sinus allergies. Chicken soup ranks among the top foods, and for a good reason. Chicken broth contains an amino acid called cysteine that helps break down mucous, thus relieving congestion.
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5 tips for dealing with ulcerative colitis
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5 tips for dealing with ulcerative colitis

When the lining in the large intestine and rectum becomes inflamed, it can induce the colon to empty itself frequently, leading to diarrhea. This inflammatory condition is called ulcerative colitis (or UC). The disease kills the cells in the colon lining, resulting in open sores and ulcers in the region. This is a chronic condition that has no permanent cure, however, a few tips can help one prevent UC and manage the symptoms: Understand risk factors and get tested Knowing if one is at risk for ulcerative colitis is the first step toward preventing it. One should check which risks can be managed or things that can be avoided to prevent UC. Doctors are yet to pinpoint a definitive cause but have narrowed down a few factors that can increase the risk of developing the condition. The common risk factors are: Age: UC typically begins between the ages of 15 and 30, though there are many cases where it has developed above 30 years of age. Race: Research suggests that Caucasians are at a higher risk when compared with other races. Further, the condition’s incidence has increased in African-American, Asian, and Hispanic communities. Heredity: If members of immediate family, like parents or siblings, have been diagnosed with UC, then one is at a higher risk of developing it too.
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7 simple snack ideas that can reduce cholesterol levels
Health

7 simple snack ideas that can reduce cholesterol levels

If the cholesterol level in an adult is above 240 mg/dL, they have high cholesterol. The level varies for men and women based on their age. 12% of adults and 7% of adolescents in the country have high cholesterol. Besides treatment, nutritional regimes and exercise are key to lowering cholesterol levels. A person with high cholesterol must commit to a diet that does not spike the current numbers. Here are some snack options that can lower cholesterol levels: Avocado Avocado is a must-have item in the kitchen if an individual has high cholesterol. It is rich in healthy fats that keep one satisfied, and it has 0 cholesterol. Avocado is also versatile; add it to egg, chicken, or vegetable salads, and make guacamole, toast, or salsa. If there are young kids with cholesterol, avocados can be included twice a week in ways that appeal to their palette. Here are some easy-to-make avocado snacks: Avocado and salmon toasts Avocado and cucumber roses Grilled avocado with hummus and tahini Avocado and chicken or egg salad Guacamole with baby carrots Baked avocado fries Baked chips If an individual is working towards lowering their cholesterol levels, it takes a lot of commitment and discipline. Doctors would have banned fries, but one can still enjoy healthy fries once in a while.
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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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