8 uncommon signs of leukemia
health

8 uncommon signs of leukemia

Leukemia, or blood cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the white blood cells. It also starts with the lymphatic system and the bone marrow. The white blood cells are the body’s natural defense system against infections and allergies. Under normal circumstances, these cells grow and multiply whenever the body needs to fight off intruders. However, the white blood cells start to malform and multiply at a higher rate with the onset of the cancer. Uncommon signs of leukemia The symptoms of leukemia start to appear within a few days or weeks of tumor growth. Generally, the early indicators of this form of cancer are difficult to diagnose since they are similar to the signs of other health disorders such as influenza or GERD. As a result, diagnosis often happens later, when the severity of the symptoms increases. Therefore, if one is at a high risk of leukemia, it helps to be aware of some of the rare symptoms of the disease. Here are some of them: 1. Vomiting This symptom is generally observed in about 5% of leukemia patients. It is generally experienced before an accurate prognosis has been received. With a lot of physical and emotional changes occurring in the body, blood cancer can trigger nausea and vomiting.
Common mistakes to avoid while grooming one’s beard
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Common mistakes to avoid while grooming one’s beard

While beards have recently regained popularity, their significance has been recognized since prehistoric times. For example, ancient Greeks considered beards to be signs of wisdom and virility. They were also grown to provide warmth, and protection – particularly the mouth and lips – from harmful external agents. Today, beard grooming has become a breeze with the availability of kits and products. Here are some beard grooming mistakes to avoid for a well-maintained, debonair look: Not washing the beard and mustache before trimming Washing one’s beard and mustache before one starts trimming them ensures that the facial hair is well-hydrated, making it easier to cut. This process also gives one an idea of how the beard or stubble will appear once trimmed. Therefore, it is recommended to wash and dry one’s beard before trimming it. Overlooking the importance of a beard shampoo Since the beard surrounds one’s mouth, food particles can get stuck in it. It can also become a breeding point for natural oils and external pollutants, causing the accumulation of bacteria. A beard shampoo can help dislodge accumulated particles and ensure adequate personal hygiene. It is ideal to wash one’s beard once or twice a week and up to thrice a week for dry and oily skin, respectively.
12 tips to help resist tobacco cravings
health

12 tips to help resist tobacco cravings

Tobacco consumption is associated with several health problems, including oral cancer, emphysema, heart disease, and stroke. Approximately 28.3 million adults nationwide smoke cigarettes, the most common form of tobacco use globally. With increasing awareness of its harmful effects, many individuals are taking active measures to quit tobacco. However, abstaining from it can pose several challenges, particularly during the initial phase. So, here are some ways to manage tobacco cravings after quitting it: Delay gratification The concept of “id, ego, and superego” by Sigmund Freud can help one understand this strategy better. According to Freud, the id is the primitive part of the mind that functions by the “pleasure principle,” driving one to fulfill primitive urges, including the urge to have tobacco-based products. On the other hand, the superego functions by the “morality principle,” seeking to restrain one from consuming tobacco. The ego balances these two aspects of the mind and is driven by the “reality principle.” Individuals trying to resist tobacco cravings should focus on the “ego” aspect of the mind, resisting the urge and telling themselves to wait for ten more minutes before giving in to the temptation. Within these 10 minutes, one should try finding other activities to distract themselves, delaying the urge further.
Huntington’s disease – Foods to avoid and eating habits to follow
health

Huntington’s disease – Foods to avoid and eating habits to follow

Huntington’s disease is a hereditary disease that causes the degeneration of brain cells. One of the main symptoms of this condition is uncontrollable jerky movements in the arms, legs, face, head, and upper body (called chorea). Other symptoms may also include a decline in thinking and reasoning skills, alterations in mood, and behavioral changes. This article explores how the condition impacts one’s eating and food management strategies to improve nutritional intake. How Huntington’s affects the body and food intake Chorea Huntington causes jerky, uncontrollable movements called chorea. This can use more energy, increasing one’s caloric needs. Difficulty in planning Huntington’s may cause short-term memory loss, making it difficult to plan meals in advance. This can also affect one’s food and nutrition. Clumsiness One may also experience stumbling and clumsiness. As a result, one may find it difficult to eat or drink, causing embarrassment among individuals with Huntington’s. Mood changes Cognitive changes with Huntington’s can cause depression and anxiety. This can cause changes in appetite, affecting one’s desire to eat. Muscular changes With Huntington’s, individuals may also have hand-eye coordination, eating, and posture issues. This can limit their ability to put food into their mouths, affecting their daily eating habits. Additionally, it can make it difficult to close the lips together, causing spillage.
13 kitchen ingredients to manage ticks and fleas on dogs
Pets

13 kitchen ingredients to manage ticks and fleas on dogs

Pet owners know the constant battle against ticks and fleas. These tiny pests pose a persistent threat to the well-being of dogs, causing discomfort and various health issues. While numerous commercial products can solve this problem, not all may be suitable for one’s pet. Instead, one can use kitchen ingredients to manage ticks and fleas and bring comfort to one’s furry friend. These home remedies are not only safe and natural but also highly effective. How do ticks and fleas affect dogs? Tick and flea bites cause itching and trigger a cycle of incessant scratching in dogs. This, in turn, gives rise to a range of problems. The allergic reactions triggered by flea saliva can manifest as skin redness, swelling, lesions, and welts. Moreover, if the dog ingests these fleas, it can lead to tapeworm infections. Ticks and fleas lay eggs in hard-to-reach areas, such as cracks in floorboards. This makes their eradication more challenging. Beyond the direct impact on the dog’s health, the relentless scratching also causes hair fall, leaving dogs with patchy coats, and dead skin accumulates. Effective and timely remedies can break the cycle of discomfort, allergic reactions, and potential health risks associated with these troublesome pests.
17 exciting Christmas stocking stuffers for all
Shopping

17 exciting Christmas stocking stuffers for all

With the holiday season just around the corner, the excitement of finding the perfect stocking stuffers is growing. These small yet thoughtful gifts can add an extra layer of joy to Christmas celebrations. The key to selecting the right stocking stuffers is to strike a balance between thoughtfulness and practicality. There are many options to choose from, ranging from personalized trinkets to delicious gourmet treats. The following options are perfect to make this Christmas season memorable for everyone. Personalized trinkets Personalization elevates the charm of trinkets, turning them into cherished keepsakes. Consider engraved keychains with initials, creating a bespoke accessory with sentimental value. Personalized bookmarks featuring not just names but favorite quotes or significant dates turn a simple item into a meaningful token, perfectly suited for the holiday spirit. Scented candles Scented candles have the power to transform a space, making them an ideal stocking stuffer. Dive into the world of festive scents such as cinnamon, pine, or vanilla, each one carefully chosen to evoke the holiday spirit. These aromatic treasures not only provide a warm glow but also infuse the surroundings with the essence of the season, creating a cozy ambiance. Gourmet chocolates Indulging in gourmet chocolates is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth, it’s about experiencing a world of unique flavors.
9 common packing mistakes to avoid while moving
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9 common packing mistakes to avoid while moving

While moving can be an exciting new chapter in life, the process leading up to it can require considerable preparation. One of the key steps in the process is packing, as it can take up a lot of time, effort, and planning. To ensure that packing goes as smoothly as possible, one must avoid a few mistakes. Further, a well-planned packing process can make the move, as well as unpacking after the move, easier. 1. Waiting until the last minute Delaying packing till the last minute is an important mistake to avoid, as it can add to the stress right before the move. Not dedicating enough time to packing can also lead to disorganization, as one may end up packing things randomly, making them difficult to find later on. To avoid such chaos, one must allocate enough time to packing and start with the process at least a few weeks before the moving date. This can not only give one enough time to organize their items before packing but also ensure that nothing is left behind. 2. Packing essentials too soon Another big mistake to avoid in the moving process is packing the essentials too early. One may need daily-use items like toiletries and certain clothes before and during the move.
13 warning signs of Huntington’s disease
health

13 warning signs of Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a rare neurological disorder that affects the brain’s nerve cells over time. A progressive decline in motor skills, cognitive function, and emotional well-being characterizes it. While the onset of symptoms can vary from person to person, recognizing the warning signs is crucial for early diagnosis and management. Here are some of the key indicators or early warning signs that may signal the presence of Huntington’s disease. What is Huntington’s disease? Huntington’s disease (HD) is a hereditary disorder caused by a mutation in the HTT gene, producing an abnormal form of the huntingtin protein. This mutated protein gradually damages certain areas of the brain, particularly the basal ganglia and cerebral cortex, which play crucial roles in regulating one’s emotions, memory, physical actions, and the ability to perform mental tasks, including thinking and decision-making. The condition has been closely linked to diabetes and abnormal changes in one’s glucose metabolism. A physical examination and a blood test often lead to its diagnosis. Warning signs of Huntington’s disease Involuntary and jerky movements Individuals may notice involuntary movements, known as chorea, which often begin subtly and gradually worsen over time. These movements can manifest as cramps, tremors, or other jerky motions that affect the body’s arms, legs, face, and other parts.
19 things in the house that may be worth a fortune
Everything Else

19 things in the house that may be worth a fortune

While most people today are constantly on the move to declutter and organize, it may be worthwhile to hold on to some precious items from the past. Apart from their sentimental value, these items could be worth a lot of money today! So, get ready to sift through cupboards and other storage spaces to find these hidden gems. Here are 19 things around the house that could be worth a lot of money: Old magazines Several people have trouble throwing away old magazines. Over time, some magazines may become lucrative collector’s items, valued at over a hundred dollars today. Their rarity, condition, and number of printed issues determine their valuation. Vintage furniture Vintage and antique furniture are always in demand, with some pieces fetching thousands of dollars on sale. With the growing popularity of retro, mid-century, and vintage styles, now may be the perfect time to sell any vintage or antique furniture pieces one may have lying around the house. Old cameras Since the advent of smartphones with picture and video-taking capabilities, cameras seem obsolete to many. As a result, old devices have just been collecting dust. If one has any old cameras at home, consider getting them valued. Rare, vintage cameras are a big hit in the photography community and could fetch a handsome sum.
11 foods to help whiten teeth naturally
health

11 foods to help whiten teeth naturally

Teeth staining can happen for several reasons, such as aging, poor eating habits, and an unhealthy lifestyle. To combat this, one could follow good oral hygiene, periodic dental cleaning, and professional tooth whitening to improve the color of the teeth. But apart from these measures, individuals could also make certain lifestyle choices, such as eating healthy foods. Below is a list of eleven foods that should be part of one’s meal regime for brighter teeth. Strawberries Eating strawberries could benefit one’s teeth, especially its color. The berry is rich in malic acid concentration, a property used in many toothpaste formulas. The acid works like a natural astringent and helps remove the tooth surface discoloration. One should note that strawberries are also abundant in citric acid, which may weaken the enamel. Therefore, each individual must wait at least 30 minutes to brush their teeth after consuming strawberries or other acidic foods. One could also rinse their mouth with water to negate the effects of citric acid after eating the berry. Onions Many are unaware of the health benefits associated with onions regarding oral hygiene. While the vegetable might cause bad breath, eating it in small amounts may benefit the teeth. The food contains antibacterial sulfur compounds that may prevent plaque from forming on the teeth.

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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
health

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.