One can develop anemia when one lacks an adequate number of red blood cells (RBCs). RBCs are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body, which fuels the cells and provides energy. Consequently, an absence of RBCs leads to an energy deficit in the body. While some can have mild or short-term anemia, others last a lifetime. Hence, it is crucial to understand the causes of anemia and risk factors that aggravate one’s susceptibility to it. Causes Anemia occurs when the blood does not have adequate RBCs or hemoglobin. Broadly, it may happen because: The body does not make substantial RBCs or hemoglobin. The body attacks the RBCs and the hemoglobin present in them. One undergoes excessive bleeding that leads to a loss of hemoglobin or RBCs faster than the body can replace them. Typically, different anemia types have varying causes. These are as follows: 1. Iron-deficiency anemia Low iron levels are the most prevalent reason for anemia. Usually, pregnant women may develop it if they do not take iron supplements. Further, excessive blood loss from menstrual bleeding and pain relievers like aspirin, cancer, or ulcers can also be responsible for it. 2. Vitamin-deficiency anemia The body requires vitamin B-12 and folate to produce healthy RBCs.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is a motor neuron disorder that results in progressive nerve cell degeneration in the brain and spinal cord. It is also called Lou Gehrig’s (christened after a baseball player who died from the condition). ALS impairs muscle and nerve function but does not hamper one’s senses or mental functioning. It is also not contagious. Here are a few tips for managing the disorder in the long run. 1. Consider therapy Doctors may suggest different therapies for managing ALS, such as physical, occupational, speech, and breathing therapy. Here’s a quick look at each option: Physical therapy: It helps patients improve mobility and manage pain. A physical therapist may recommend mobility aids like wheelchairs and devices like ramps to make life easier. The expert may also suggest low-impact exercises to boost cardiovascular function and overall health. Occupational therapy: It helps patients retain their independence for longer. Occupational therapists train people to compensate for arm and hand weakness. They also help pick assistive technologies and adaptive equipment necessary for one to go on with their daily routine. Speech therapy: It is beneficial when ALS results in trouble speaking. Speech therapists teach different communication techniques and help patients use computer-based communication equipment.

Typically, women enter menopause at the age of 51 years. However, most women dread its onset, and the reason is quite apparent – mood swings, hot flashes, and other irritable symptoms of menopause. All its symptoms sound and feel quite overwhelming. Although menopause is inevitable, it should not be a challenging phase. So, to help women sail through without much discomfort, here are some tips to prepare them for menopause. 1. Follow a nutrient-rich meal regime It is important to keep a check on the body’s nutritional requirements. As one grows older, the susceptibility to osteoporosis and health diseases aggravates, making it crucial to opt for some healthy choices. To stay healthy, consider eating whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Limit fat intake and opt for fiber-rich foods. One can also consider including vitamin D-rich foods in one’s daily meals. 2. Exercise daily Being physically active is imperative to boost heart health and maintain one’s overall wellness. Consider strength training to maintain bone density. It also lowers the probability of osteoporosis. Exercise also helps manage stress, which is often a concern during menopause and perimenopause. 3. Prioritize sleep Menopause can hamper one’s sleep patterns. While some women experience insomnia, others wake up in a hot flash-induced pool of sweat.

Narcolepsy is a type of sleep disorder that triggers an overwhelming urge in individuals to fall asleep during the day. As this condition is uncommon, most people are unaware of its causes and symptoms. Fortunately, narcolepsy is curable, but given the severity of symptoms, it can severely disrupt one’s life and interfere with one’s mental health and relationships. Thus, it is vital for one to learn the primary symptoms of narcolepsy to treat it adequately. 1. Excessive daytime sleepiness It is the most prevalent and often the first narcolepsy symptom. People experiencing this sign fall asleep without any warning, anytime and anywhere. It may happen amid a task or when they are bored. For instance, one may be talking with friends or working and suddenly go into a slumber state. The problem becomes grave if such an incident happens while driving. People usually fall asleep for a few minutes, but it can go up to 30 minutes, and once they wake up, they feel refreshed but fall asleep in no time again. Narcolepsy also impairs one’s focus and alertness during the day, as repeatedly feeling sleepy poses challenges to one’s function and focus. A few people with the condition continue performing the task even during sleep.

AF, or atrial fibrillation, is the most prevalent kind of treated heart arrhythmia. Arrhythmia occurs when one’s heart beats too fast, too slowly, or irregularly. In people with atrial fibrillation, the typical beating is irregular in the heart’s upper chambers, and the blood flow from the atria to the lower chambers is not as expected. It might either be a permanent condition or occur in brief episodes. Below are some prevalent symptoms to know of. 1. Angina or chest pain Angina refers to chest pain stemming from reduced blood flow to the heart. One will experience it as squeezing or pressure. The pain spreads to the ears, neck, arms, and upper back. The symptoms may come and go or last for a while, and the pain may subside with resting. When one has angina, pay close attention to the below-listed factors and discuss them with a healthcare provider: The origin of the pain The sensation it produces The duration of its occurrence Any alleviating factors Angina pain can resemble the chest pain one experiences during a heart attack. One must immediately get medical help if one has the following angina symptoms. Occurs unpredictably It lasts longer than typical Happens while resting Changes suddenly 2.

Public washrooms often come to mind when thinking of contaminated spots, but it is not just public places that are exposed to germs. Harmful parasites, bacteria, and viruses are invisible to the naked eye and can be anywhere—in the air, in food, and on surfaces inside homes, causing illnesses like respiratory infections, flu, and food poisoning. So, one should keep an eye on the following places at home where germs may hide: 1. Kitchen A study suggested that the areas where food is prepared and stored have more bacterial contamination than other places around the home. Further, over 75% of rags and dish sponges had fecal matter, Salmonella, and E. coli, as opposed to just 9% of bathroom faucet handles containing the same microbes. Other surfaces in the kitchen that demand regular cleaning are the refrigerator, coffee maker, cutting boards, countertops, and kitchen sink. So, one can protect themselves from illnesses by: – Washing their hands every time they touch and handle food – Washing and changing dish towels every few days – Soaking sponges in warm water with half a teaspoon of concentrated bleach – Using disinfectant wipes on the refrigerator surfaces, faucet, and countertops – Heating damp sponges in the microwave for 60 seconds to kill the bacteria 2.

Depression is a mental health condition that affects millions of people globally. It can significantly impact one’s daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. While seeking professional help is crucial, there are also several lifestyle changes one can make to manage depression. Exercise, eating healthy meals, and self-care are just a few examples of how people can improve their mental health. This article explores five lifestyle tips that may help manage depression and improve mental health. Staying physically active Research indicates that engaging in consistent physical activity is crucial for improving one’s mood, particularly when managing depression. It doesn’t matter what exercise one does—one can choose whatever one enjoys. Even brisk walking can be a beneficial kind of exercise. However, if one doesn’t exercise currently, one can start slowly and gradually increase the time to 30 minutes a day. Getting a friend or family member involved or enrolling in a class can be beneficial. Participating in an activity with someone else might be advantageous since it helps support habitual adherence. However, those who are not active should consult their doctor before starting. A healthcare professional can also assist in creating a personalized exercise schedule. Maintaining good sleep hygiene A poor sleep schedule particularly impacts one’s mood, as the neurotransmitters necessary to support the mood replenish as one sleeps.

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped, small gland at the neck’s base. Thyroid cancer occurs when cancer develops in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that aid in metabolism. They also help control heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. Fortunately, thyroid cancer is highly treatable. There are different types of thyroid cancer, and the doctors suggest a treatment plan based on the type and stage. This article lists the various types of thyroid cancer. 1. Differentiated thyroid cancers It is a broad category that encompasses thyroid cancer that originates in the cells responsible for storing and producing thyroid hormones. Such cells are known as follicular cells. The cancer cells in such cancers look like healthy cells when viewed under a microscope. Below are some cancers in this category. Papillary thyroid cancer It is the most prevalent type of thyroid cancer. Approximately 80–85 percent of people with thyroid cancer have papillary carcinoma. It is a slow-growing cancer that originates from the follicular cells, usually in one, but sometimes in both of the thyroid glands’ lobes. Papillary thyroid cancer can spread to the lymph nodes in the neck. However, the patient may have a good prognosis with a comprehensive treatment plan.

Health insurance serves as a vital safety net, providing financial security and peace of mind by covering healthcare expenses. It ensures that individuals and their loved ones can access healthcare services without the burden of excessive costs. However, considering the diversity in insurance plans, choosing the correct coverage may get confusing. To simplify the process, here are tips for navigating policy types and comparing features to help pick the best health insurance plan. 1. Understand the family’s needs Expectations and needs change based on one’s marital status. So, if one is married and has children, it is important to opt for a plan that caters to the family’s requirements. Since the coverage can change with time, it is crucial to carefully examine which plan works best for one’s circumstances. For instance, if an individual and their partner have different healthcare needs, they can opt for plans with different pricing or coverage. 2. Review the estimated insured amount When picking health insurance, ensure the sum insured aligns with one’s needs. Opting for a higher sum insured may result in higher premiums. However, if one opts for a lower sum insured than one’s needs, it may not entirely cover the healthcare expenses, leading to out-of-pocket expenses during settlement.

Huntington’s disease is a debilitating inherited disorder wherein selective brain cell death causes a gradual decline in emotional, physical, and cognitive function. Some common complications associated with the condition include problems with swallowing and eating, especially as the disease advances. It also results in loss of muscle coordination and control, leading to choking and spilling food from the mouth. The disease may also lead to symptoms like dementia. Given the severity of the symptoms, one must take measures to manage the condition. Beyond the ongoing medications and treatment, food choices can help with disease management. So, here are some of the worst foods for Huntington’s disease one must strictly avoid. 1. Raw fruits Individuals with dysphagia may experience difficulty swallowing and should avoid the intake of raw fruits to prevent further complications. Hence, for increased safety and to prevent difficulty eating, one must evaluate food consistency when picking any food item. Raw fruits, like pears and apples, are the worst foods for Huntington’s disease, as they are thicker and difficult to swallow. 2. Stringy vegetables Another item that is difficult to swallow is the stringy vegetables. These include celery and green peas. Broadly, people with Huntington’s disease must avoid anything that aggravates their susceptibility to aspiration or choking.