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Top 10 kitchen remodeling errors to avoid
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Top 10 kitchen remodeling errors to avoid

Kitchen renovation is an exciting prospect, as it can make the space more functional and visually appealing. The project could involve major changes like knocking down walls, changing countertops, and adding other elements like a breakfast bar and more cabinets. One may also consider changing the backsplash, flooring, and appliances. So, remodeling the kitchen can be a huge undertaking. To ensure it goes as smoothly as possible, here are a few mistakes to avoid: 1. Skipping planning Proper planning is one of the most overlooked aspects of a home improvement project. But, for a successful renovation, one needs to have a vision and a definite end goal, preferably on paper. The vision needs to go beyond just how the space would look and take into account how the new kitchen will serve the inhabitants. Would the kitchen be only used for cooking, or will it also serve as a hangout spot and a breakfast or dining nook? One should assess their requirements and list them, set a budget, and list goals before purchasing materials, hiring contractors, and knocking down the existing structure. 2. Underestimating costs Another huge mistake is setting the wrong budget. One doesn’t need to know the exact expenses beforehand, but they should have an estimate of the cost and leave a little room for the budget to stretch.
Water purifiers – Their importance and benefits
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Water purifiers – Their importance and benefits

Increasing water pollution levels is a growing concern, especially since it has now hit home for many people. The availability of clean and safe drinking water is a rare privilege. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the drinking water at home is always free of harmful substances. Otherwise, it can lead to several health problems, such as water-borne diseases and infection. A solution to avoid this is to have a water purifier at home. Water purifier – What it is A water purifier works nearly the same as water filters but has some added advantages. Regarding similarities, water purifiers and filters remove impurities from drinking water. Besides this, a water purifier goes a few more steps ahead by removing harmful minerals from water and killing off all biological impurities. Most water purifiers do this using two methods: Reverse osmosis This method works similarly to the normal filtration process. However, it does not use a device to capture all the impurities and pollutants. Instead, the RO process involves using a small, semi-permeable layer through which water is forced to go. Because of the high pressure of the force, particulate matter, impurities, and contaminants present in the water are captured in the membrane.
8 window and door maintenance mistakes to avoid
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8 window and door maintenance mistakes to avoid

The doors and windows of a house are considered to be its most integral components. Keeping them in good shape is imperative to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents. It is crucial to avoid making mistakes to keep the doors and windows in good condition. Whether to protect their form or function, one must avoid certain pitfalls, such as the following, to properly maintain their doors and windows. Not cleaning regularly Many individuals often overlook the need to clean their doors and windows regularly. These pieces accumulate substantial dirt, dust, and debris daily. If left uncleaned, the dirt can begin damaging the surfaces of doors and windows. It can also significantly damage the glass surfaces of windows by causing scratches. This is why it is essential to regularly clean the doors and windows with a soft cloth and mild cleansers. One must also ensure that the frames and hinges of the doors and windows are cleaned. If too much dirt accumulates in the rollers or hinges, it could lead to windows and doors not operating properly. Using the wrong cleaning products To maintain doors and windows perfectly, using the right products for cleaning is essential. Using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals might end up causing more damage to the surface of the doors and windows.
6 cleaning mistakes that can ruin carpets
Home

6 cleaning mistakes that can ruin carpets

Carpets are not just great standalone pieces of furnishing, they can also tie a room together. Additionally, they help the space look cozier and softer. However, carpets and rugs tend to attract a lot of dust. So, they must be cleaned every now and then to keep them clean and retain their vibrance and texture in the long run. Further, one must avoid making cleaning mistakes that can make carpets look worn out: 1. Using the wrong products One may fall for tall claims and bring home carpet stain removal products that can instead cause discoloration. This is because some harsh cleaning products do more harm than good, especially when dealing with carpets and rugs. This is why experts often recommend testing a new cleaner or stain removal product on a small portion of the carpet before using it directly on the stain or for the entire carpet. For instance, one can apply the product to a small portion of the carpet that is not too visible, like the portion underneath the couch. If the product does not cause discoloration or other issues on the test patch, then one can continue using it. The test should be a standard practice for all new carpet cleaning products, even DIY homemade cleaning solutions.
10 roofing mistakes to avoid when renovating a home
Home

10 roofing mistakes to avoid when renovating a home

If there were no roofs in structures, one would have to directly bear the brunt of harsh sunlight, heavy downpours and snow, rough winds, and extreme weather, not to mention birds, reptiles, and insects, making the place all their own. However, the roof is directly exposed to all such factors, so a fragile roof is subject to continuous wear and tear. To prevent such a scenario, here are some roofing mistakes one should avoid: 1. Not installing a cricket over the chimney Cricket is a tiny ridge placed over a chimney, and its main function is to prevent water from entering the chimney. Usually, it is made of wood and is an important part of the roofing structure, especially if one lives in a rain-prone zone. It helps prevent leakage and shouldn’t be missed while building a roof. 2. Selecting the wrong roofing materials There is no dearth of roofing materials on the market, but not all of these materials may suit all types of structures. For example, asphalt shingles are extremely popular choices for roofs all over the country, but that’s mainly because of the steep pitch that most residential structures in America have. So, if one has a low-lying roof, asphalt shingles may not be the best choice; in such cases, materials like ethylene propylene diene monomer and sheet metal may be better options to prevent leakage.
11 common basement waterproofing mistakes to avoid
Home

11 common basement waterproofing mistakes to avoid

Almost every homeowner has faced water-caused destruction in their homes at one time or another. A good way to stop water damage is to waterproof areas like the basement. Unfortunately, this is not as easy as it sounds. A lot of people unknowingly make mistakes while waterproofing this place, which could be costly in the long run. Read on to learn about 11 such mistakes and how to avoid them. Ignoring the early warning signs of leakages When it comes to water damage, it is very important to catch the early warning signs. One should watch out for any unusual odors, dampness, or visible water stains in the basement. Recognizing these early can prevent excessive damage and mold growth and avoid expensive renovations in the future. Overlooking external drainage issues To keep the home and basement clean and moisture-free, homeowners also need to pay attention to their external drainage systems. Issues here, such as clogged gutters or downspouts, can increase the risk of water seepage and damage in the basement. One should regularly maintain the drainage systems so that the water is directed away from the home’s foundation. Thinking waterproof paint is enough While using waterproof paint is important in closed-off or humid locations like bathrooms and basements, it should not be the only barrier to prevent water from seeping in.
8 garden renovation mistakes to avoid
Home

8 garden renovation mistakes to avoid

The garden is the perfect place for individuals to spend time sipping on their favorite drink or hosting a barbeque for their friends and family. However, one might eventually want to renovate the entire area from scratch. While there’s a lot of excitement in taking up this project, people could make various mistakes that may ruin the garden space. Here are eight garden renovation errors that one could easily avoid. Not setting a budget Many people dive into a renovation project without even considering the costs. And before they know it, they have already shot past what they can afford. Therefore, setting a budget before starting the renovation project is crucial. One must determine how much they are willing to invest in the garden. The estimated budget should include every expense, including the cost of removing wild plants and adding fresh ones that are good for the space. One should also keep an additional fund aside to accommodate any unforeseen or emergency costs that arise during the project. Not drawing out a plan Apart from setting a budget, one should also ensure they begin garden renovations after creating a plan. This plan should include what they wish to add to the garden and the overall cost.
12 signs it’s time to get new doors and windows
Home

12 signs it’s time to get new doors and windows

Doors and windows connect homes to the world. However, as they are part of the home’s exterior, they are constantly exposed to external elements like wind, snow, rain, and dust. Additionally, even room and patio doors are used extensively, undergoing quite a bit of wear and tear. So, it’s necessary to maintain all doors and windows, regularly look for issues, and get them replaced if one notices the following signs: Signs to replace doors 1. Wide gaps With time, the gaps between the front doors and the floor beneath them may begin to widen, or the doors can get misaligned. This can make the door let in cold air. If that is the case, it is a clear sign that the door needs to be replaced or at least repaired. 2. Cracks Harsh winds, extreme winters, excessive moisture, or rough use—any of these factors can speed up door wear and tear. While some of these cracks can get repaired, the situation may get out of hand after a point if cracks keep developing. That’s when the door needs to be replaced. Garden and patio doors are particularly vulnerable to such wear and tear because they are directly exposed to such elements.
7 mistakes to avoid when repairing the house’s crawl space
Home

7 mistakes to avoid when repairing the house’s crawl space

The crawl space often ends up being one of the most neglected areas of a home. Since damp, moist air easily gets trapped in this space, there is a high risk of mold breeding here, affecting the foundation. Besides, musty smells, pests, and bugs can quickly find their way indoors, posing a risk to everyone’s health. Because of these issues, ensuring the crawl space is repaired well without any mistakes is important. Not hiring a professional to do the job Since the crawl space is a hidden area of the house, a homeowner may be tempted to save money by not hiring a professional. This can be a serious mistake with expensive consequences, especially if one does not have the necessary skills to do the work themselves. Instead of doing it alone, hiring a professional contractor can save a lot of time. Besides this, there will be less chance of the work being faulty. There will be a low risk of causing further damage to the crawl space, which otherwise will incur more expenses to repair it. Starting a the repair work before the crawl space is dry A common mistake homeowners make is installing the insulation or moisture barrier for the flooring too soon.
7 mistakes to avoid when selecting a front door
Home

7 mistakes to avoid when selecting a front door

Making the right choice on the first go can be challenging. Extensive research and consideration must be given to ensure one is choosing correctly. This applies when one is choosing a front door for their property. People  do not just need to think about the property’s budget and esthetics.  To avoid making the wrong decision , individuals need to consider certain commonly made mistakes and learn from other people’s mistakes. Mistakes to avoid Here are a few mistakes people make when selecting a front door: 1. Overlooking security features A commonly made mistake people need to stop when selecting front doors is not taking in the importance of security. While trying to find a door that fits the house entrance, look for one that provides the right kind of security. There is no point in finding a front door if it does not have any security benefits to add. Overlooking this important detail can put the property and the people living in it at a higher risk of break-ins, thefts, and other criminal activity. Multi-point locking system doors are a great choice for any  kind of  property.  Homeowners can also consider installing added locks or reinforced metal door frames to improve their security prospects.

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3 ways to deal with an overactive bladder
health

3 ways to deal with an overactive bladder

People with an overactive bladder (or OAB) experience a sudden and frequent urge to urinate. About 40% of women and 30% of men in the country deal with this condition, which can be caused by weak pelvic muscles, nerve damage, and excessive caffeine consumption. Those affected may have to urinate more often than usual and can even experience leakage. Here are a few treatment options, foods to eat and avoid, and ways to manage OAB: Treatment options Persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor so that they can determine the right course of treatment for OAB. Here are popular options that can be considered based on the doctor’s recommendation: Gemtesa:  It is an FDA-approved prescription treatment for adults affected by OAB. It helps relieve urinary symptoms like urgency, frequency, and even incontinence. Gemtesa is an oral treatment, usually taken with water. Common side effects include diarrhea, headache, or nausea. Myrbetriq:  It can help treat bladder issues like neurogenic detrusor overactivity and overactive bladder. This treatment option relaxes the detrusor, a bladder muscle, making it easier for the bladder to accommodate more urine and reduce OAB symptoms. Doctors recommend oral consumption of  Myrbetriq once a day. Adults can have it with or without food, while children must take it with food.
Top tips for managing rheumatoid arthritis
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Top tips for managing rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that affects one’s joints. In some cases, it can also damage several other body systems like blood vessels, the heart, lungs, eyes, and skin. It is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when your immune system starts mistakenly attacking your body’s tissues. The condition affects the joint’s lining, resulting in painful swelling, which can later cause joint deformity and bone erosion. Here are some treatment measures for rheumatoid arthritis: Treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis Actemra® It is a prescription, FDA-approved biological therapy for relief from rheumatoid arthritis. Actemra ® helps lower the inflammation in the body by directly blocking the action of a protein in your body called interleukin-6 (IL-6). Your doctor may administer it as a subcutaneous or intravenous injection. The former is administered at home or at a medical facility, but the latter is given solely at a medical facility. Plaquenil It is an FDA-approved prescription treatment that helps treat acute and chronic rheumatoid arthritis. It helps manage symptoms such as stiffness, inflammation, joint pain, and swelling. It is to be taken exactly as per the recommendation of one’s primary healthcare professional. Rinvoq® Rinvoq ® helps treat moderate to severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis in adults when tumor necrosis factor blockers were used but could not be tolerated or did not work well.
4 practical ways to deal with psoriatic arthritis
health

4 practical ways to deal with psoriatic arthritis

Arthritis commonly affects people with psoriasis, a disease that results in red patches on the skin with silvery scales. Typically, people experience psoriasis years before they get diagnosed with this arthritis. It affects thirty percent of people with psoriasis. However, in some people, joint problems start before psoriasis or during the same time. Swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the key signs of psoriatic arthritis. Here are the prevalent treatment options for psoriatic arthritis: Treatment options These prescriptions are known to work well against the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis: Otezla Otezla is an oral treatment plan that can be taken with or without food, or as the healthcare professional recommends. You should not chew, split, or crush the tablet before consumption. The recommended dosage depends on your response to treatment and condition. To keep side effects at bay, the doctor may start with a low Otezla dosage and gradually increase it. Rinvoq Rinvoq  should be consumed by mouth with or without food, typically once daily or as the doctor recommends. Do not split, chew, or crush the tablet. It can release the entire dosage in one go and heighten the susceptibility to side effects. To get maximum benefit, you must use Rinvoq regularly. The dosage depends on age and response to the treatment.
How to manage osteoporosis and improve bone health
health

How to manage osteoporosis and improve bone health

Osteoporosis is a condition that makes the bone brittle and weak. When severe, even slight pressure caused by coughing, bending over, or falling can cause a fracture. Such fractures are predominant in the spine, wrist, or hip. Osteoporosis occurs if the new bone fails to keep up with the loss of the old bone. It affects men and women, but post-menopausal women are more susceptible. Let’s discuss the correct osteoporosis treatment and management plan: Treatment plan Prolia It is a prescription treatment plan for relieving osteoporosis in women post-menopause who cannot use other options or have not responded well to prior treatment and are susceptible to fractures. Doctors will prescribe it for at least six months. Prolia helps treat both men and women. However, professionals do not recommend it for pregnant women, women trying to get pregnant anytime soon, or people with low blood calcium. Further, those allergic to denosumab or any other Prolia ingredient must avoid it.   Evenity Evenity helps with osteoporosis in two ways: it slows down bone loss and helps build new bone simultaneously. It is an FDA-approved treatment for osteoporosis that comes as a prefilled, single-use syringe with solution. But Evenity may have severe side effects.
3 tips for diabetes management
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3 tips for diabetes management

High blood sugar or hyperglycemia is associated with prediabetes and diabetes. The body generates insulin to manage blood sugar levels. But when the liver produces excessive glucose, and the body makes little insulin or fails to use insulin, it leads to high blood sugar levels. The condition can leave one tired and thirsty, cause blurry vision, and result in the frequent urge to pee. Read on to know some treatment plans for diabetes management: Treatment options for diabetes management Invokana® It is an excellent treatment plan that works in tandem with the proper meal plans and exercise to lower high blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes. Invokana ® also reduces the risk of death from stroke or heart attack. Plus, it helps decrease the risk of end-stage kidney disease and worsening of kidney function. GlucoTrust GlucoTrust promises to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels, reduce one’s craving for sugar and unhealthy foods, and support deep sleep. It also claims to have a formula of all-natural ingredients. However, it is strongly advisable to consult your doctor before opting for supplements like GlucoTrust since it may not bring the desired results in all cases. Kerendia® It is an FDA-approved prescription treatment that aids in lowering the risk of complications in people with Type 2 diabetes.

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4 tips for dealing with asthma
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4 tips for dealing with asthma

Asthma is a respiratory condition wherein the airways in the lungs swell up, become narrow, and produce extra mucus, making it difficult to breathe. People affected can experience breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing. The disease could be a minor issue for some, while others may have to deal with serious long-term symptoms. Although there is no permanent cure for asthma, here are treatment options, foods to have and avoid, and alternative therapies to manage the symptoms: Treatment options Doctors can recommend the right course of treatment based on the severity of asthma symptoms. Here are a few popular options: Tezepelumab:  It is a popular treatment option, approved by the FDA as a supplementary maintenance remedy for pediatric patients over 12 and adults with asthma. Tezepelumab is an injectable option and the first and only biologic to significantly and consistently reduce severe asthma symptoms in clinical trials. Fasenra:  This is a monoclonal antibody that works on the immune system activity in the body. Fasenra helps control the elevated eosinophil count responsible for severe asthma symptoms. This injection is suitable for children over 12 and adults and can be used with other treatment plans to keep flare-ups in check. Nucala:  This is a monoclonal antibody that also reduces the eosinophils in the body.
4 useful tips for managing migraines
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4 useful tips for managing migraines

Migraine is a prevalent health condition in which a person experiences severe headaches, usually on one side of the head. There may also be other symptoms like sensitivity to light, tiredness, and nausea, which can last a few hours to two days. The ailment is triggered due to stress, certain foods, and other factors. While there is no cure for migraines, the following tips can help manage the symptoms effectively: Use the correct treatment options There are several treatments for migraines, but it is essential to choose the correct one after consulting a doctor. The popular options include: Nurtec ODT Nurtec ODT is an oral treatment that can help alleviate symptoms like headaches, pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light in adults. One can use Nurtec ODT on alternate days or as the doctor recommends. Its side effects include allergic reactions, trouble breathing, and rash. UBRELVY It is a fast-acting treatment option that blocks a specific protein in the body known to induce migraine attacks. One can consult a doctor to determine the dosage according to their condition. The most common side effects of UBRELVY are nausea and sleepiness. Excedrin Excedrin is suitable for temporary relief from migraine headaches. It can also treat aches caused by other factors, such as arthritis and toothaches.
Foods to be avoided by diabetes patients
health

Foods to be avoided by diabetes patients

Food gets broken down into glucose by the body to release energy for its functioning. Most meal plans combine fats, proteins, sugars, and other essential carbohydrates vital for healthy growth and organ function. However, people with diabetes should be careful about seemingly healthy foods as it can trigger a spike in their blood glucose levels. Here are different foods that are bad for diabetes and should not be eaten regularly: Various foods that are bad for diabetes patients Fruit juices and other drinks Sugar consumption via beverages can spike insulin levels drastically. Did you know that lots of seemingly healthy store-bought fruit smoothies, sports drinks, bottled juices, and sodas can spike blood sugar levels too? Also, natural fruit juices are not necessarily a healthy option as they are high in fructose. Aside from this, cola, iced tea, lemonade, and other flavored beverages are excessively high in carbs, sugar, and fructose. Their regular consumption can trigger insulin resistance, forcing healthy cells to reject insulin and extract glucose for energy.  Another crucial thing to remember is to avoid any type of spirit if you have diabetes. These contain empty calories and can worsen the condition significantly. Cereals, yogurt, and dried fruits Daily breakfast cereals are fortified with essential vitamins and nutrients that make up for a wholesome meal.
6 human foods that cats can enjoy
Pets

6 human foods that cats can enjoy

Certain foods that are healthy for us may be beneficial for your cat. As a responsible cat parent, it is essential to be aware of the foods and their sources before slipping a morsel from your plate into your pet’s bowl. Ingestion of toxic foods can adversely affect the cat’s digestive system. Hence, it is advised to consult a vet for recommendations. Here is a list of human foods that are perfectly safe for cats: Meat Cats are carnivores by nature. Most of the commercial cat food in the market contains different meats, an excellent protein source. So, feeding them bits of cooked meats like beef, turkey, or chicken from your lunch plate is entirely alright. Make sure you limit the quantity of the meats. Overeating may cause digestive issues in cats. Salmon Cats love fish, and most vets recommend feeding them fish-based foods. They are a good source of omega-3 and other nutrients. Oily fish like tuna, salmon, or mackerel prove beneficial for their eyesight and joints. However, do not feed your feline straight from the can as they might lick it too aggressively, leading to cuts and bruises on their tongues. It’s best to feed them cooked fish without bones.
Top 9 foods for healthy lungs
Diets & Meal Plans

Top 9 foods for healthy lungs

Life isn’t fun when one can’t breathe properly. Years of unhealthy lifestyle habits and other factors can seriously affect the functions of the lungs, resulting in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and other respiratory diseases that decrease quality of life. Fortunately, one can manage these diseases and even prevent them altogether by incorporating certain foods into their meal plans. Here are some foods that can boost lung health: Beetroots When it comes to the health of the vital organ, beetroot and even its leaves are among the best foods anyone can have. That’s mainly because both beetroot and beet greens are rich in nitrates, which help relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and optimize oxygen uptake. Beet greens are full of nutrients essential to lung functions, such as vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and carotenoid antioxidants. To benefit from beets, add them to salads or make beet juice. Turmeric This yellow spice has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Curcumin, the main component in turmeric, is behind all the health benefits. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial characteristics can make turmeric extremely useful for improving lung function and aiding in conditions such as asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis.
3 foods to avoid for better lung health
health

3 foods to avoid for better lung health

Strengthening the lungs can help one avoid respiratory issues and diseases. Even when diagnosed with a lung-related illness, making significant changes to the lifestyle and food regimen can help people manage the symptoms and restore lung function. However, it is equally important to avoid the food items that damage these organs and cause issues like inflammation, sneezing, and wheezing. Here are a few foods to avoid to improve lung health: Salty food Foods with excessive salt should be avoided as their long-term consumption can have severe consequences on the overall health. Excess sodium in such food items can enlarge the muscles of the heart, cause headaches, increase blood pressure, and lead to a wide range of kidney-related issues like stones. Such foods can also have a negative effect on the health of the lungs and have been linked to an increased risk of bronchitis. Additionally, too much salt in meals can also worsen the symptoms of respiratory issues like asthma. This is because sodium can cause fluid retention, leading to shortness of breath in those with lung diseases. To reduce its intake, one should start by limiting salt in their meals and instead add more herbs and spices as seasoning.