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Hemophilia – Early signs and ways to manage the condition

Hemophilia – Early signs and ways to manage the condition
Hemophilia is a condition wherein the blood does not clot as there are insufficient clotting proteins present. This is a rare disorder. While small cuts and wounds may not be an issue, serious injuries can be even more life threatening due to lack of blood clotting factors that prevent a person from bleeding out completely. Hemophilia is usually a genetic disorder. Let us look at some symptoms and treatment options. Symptoms Signs and symptoms of hemophilia vary from person to person. Depending on the level of clotting factors in an individual, they can experience mild to severe symptoms. Some may bleed excessively and profusely even after small cuts or injuries, including dental work and surgery. Others can be prone to many large or deep bruises frequently. Bleeding after vaccinations is also common in some people. In other cases, one may notice blood in the urine or stool along with having erratic nosebleeds. Some people may also feel pain, swelling, and some stiffness in the joints. An uncommon symptom of hemophilia involves bleeding in the brain, which can cause severe complications to one’s health. For those with severe hemophilia, a bump on the head can be responsible for bleeding into the brain.

6 reasons for missing periods while on birth control

6 reasons for missing periods while on birth control
Many women resort to birth control pills to control their pregnancy chances and timings. Some women may experience withdrawal bleeding or spotting. However, in some cases, a lapse in monthly menstruation can occur while consistently using oral contraceptives (OCPs). There are many reasons for this to happen. Fret not! Read on to find out the various factors that could be the cause of missing your period while on birth control pills. Eating habits Drastic changes in the amount and type of food being consumed can be one of the reasons for missing your periods while on birth control. Changes in eating habits and patterns can cause significant changes in the levels and functions of your hormones, subsequently leading to changes in the menstrual cycle. The hormonal imbalance and changes in ovulation may lead to missed or delayed periods while on birth control. Stress Stress is among the more common causative factors of absent periods. It can also lead to longer or shorter cycles. Studies suggest these changes can be attributed to excessive cortisol secretion in the body. The extra cortisol produced due to stress causes shorter or missed periods that can happen even when on birth control. Regulating missed periods because of stress includes practicing stress-relieving techniques such as meditation, stretching, breathing exercises, and yoga.

When to drink water for maximum benefits

When to drink water for maximum benefits
It does not matter if the temperature outside is warm or cool. Drinking lots of water during the day is rewarding to your body. Not drinking enough fluids can lead to dehydration and symptoms like low blood pressure, confusion, and dizziness. In this article, you will find tips on the ideal time to drink water. Following these tips can help your body make the best use of the life-saving liquid. Drink water before and during meals Drinking a glass of water 30 minutes before a meal can help control the overconsumption of food. When you drink water, you may feel full and can resist the urge to overeat. Furthermore, drinking water while eating a meal, especially foods rich in fibers, helps with digestion. The fibers move through the digestive system and absorb water. Down a glass when you wake up There is no water entering the body when you are asleep, and you may wake up dehydrated. Therefore, drinking water when you get up in the morning can help you stay hydrated. Consuming the healthy liquid when you wake up also ensures the flushing of harmful toxins before eating the first meal. Drinking warm water before a bath benefits your blood pressure While it may seem odd at first, drinking warm water before a bath can work wonders for your body.

The link between hormones and migraine headaches

The link between hormones and migraine headaches
Headaches are one of the most common discomforts experienced by individuals. There are many different types of headaches and several known triggers, ranging from side effects of prescriptions to external environmental factors. However, statistics indicate that women are three times more likely than men to experience frequent headaches or migraines due to hormonal changes. Here is a brief overview of how these headaches develop and what to do to manage them. Hormonal triggers of migraine headaches among women Menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and even hormone replacement therapy are some of the known hormonal triggers of migraine headaches. Headaches experienced during menstruation Menstruation is the periodic shedding of the uterus lining and is a regular occurrence once a girl starts ovulating. During monthly menstrual cycles, estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest in the body. These hormonal changes can trigger migraine headaches. Headaches during pregnancy Some women may experience their first bout of migraine attacks early on in pregnancy. The body releases high amounts of estrogen to support the baby’s development. There is a lot of hormonal fluctuation between trimesters, leading to headaches. Headaches during menopause Menopause marks the end of regular menstruation. Some women opt for hormone replacement therapy to prevent or manage hot flashes and associated symptoms that develop during this time.

5 common fashion mistakes to avoid

5 common fashion mistakes to avoid
Trying to look ready for the ramp is not nearly as effortless as professional models and celebrities make it seem. In fact, even their street style is carefully curated to make them look chic and casual. This is why replicating these looks at home may not be the best idea for everyone. Careless imitation along with other blunders can make even the best styles seem sloppy, so, one should avoid making easily avoidable fashion mistakes. Ignoring comfort People may overlook fashionable choices in the fear of leaving their comfort zone, or they may make uncomfortable choices in the name of fashion. Either way, it is an incorrect approach to fashion according to experts in the field. Our clothing and styling choices reflect any uneasiness or discomfort. Confidence will come naturally when people develop their own sense of style and choose things that are comfortable for them. Ill-fitted clothes While oversized clothes have been trendy for a hot minute, not everyone needs to get on board. If anything, donning ill-fitted clothing can make the overall look seem unkempt or even unappealing. Certain combinations can work like pairing an oversized blazer with a body-accentuating blouse. On the other hand, adding baggy layers to oversized jeans and shirts can make one look shabby.

5 foods that can lead to poor eyesight

5 foods that can lead to poor eyesight
Nutrition plays a crucial role in the performance of different organs, including the eyes. Our eyes are made up of vascular tissue, which means the foods that are unhealthy for the heart are unhealthy for the eyes too. The tiny capillaries in the eyes supply the retina with oxygen and nutrients to keep it healthy. However, foods rich in unhealthy fats can block these blood vessels, compromising eye function and leading to vision problems. French fries French fries are often made in the same oil and even reheated multiple times, leading to molecular changes that increase the concentration of harmful fats. A high amount of these fats affects the eyes, heart, and other organs. Also, free radicals in fried foods increase oxidation in the body, which can damage the eyes. Margarine Margarine is often advertised as the healthier butter, but it is rich in trans fats— the fat that increases bad cholesterol levels. Increased cholesterol leads to blockages in arteries and other blood vessels, restricting the flow of oxygen, blood, and nutrients. It, in turn, can increase the risk of eye diseases. Healthy alternatives to margarine are coconut oil, avocado oil, and olive oil. Processed meat Highly processed meats, like sausages, bacon, and hot dogs, are convenient snacking options.

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4 common myths about diabetes debunked

When the glucose levels in the body are high and insulin levels are not proportionate enough to convert this glucose into energy, the risk of diabetes increases. It is basically the inability of the body to convert food into energy using insulin. The glucose is broken down into energy for cells to absorb and when this conversion doesn’t take place, blood sugar levels rise. If left unchecked, it can lead to a number of complications. However, there are certain myths about diabetes that can create confusion among the masses. Here is what you must know and understand about the condition. Myth 1: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same. The fact of the matter is that both type 1 and 2 are linked to insulin deficiency that causes diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce any insulin, and people suffering from this condition must rely on regular doses of insulin to supplement these requirements. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disorder that is mostly diagnosed in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body still manages to produce insulin but the cells are unable to absorb the compound necessary for converting food into energy. Depending on the severity of the condition, people suffering from type 2 diabetes may or may not need insulin shots. Myth 2: Insulin dependence Nothing can be further from the truth that insulin is a lifesaving medication and absolutely necessary for people suffering from severe diabetes. The body cannot convert food into energy without insulin. How the supply is replenished does not matter as there is a need for the deficiency to be managed better. People with type 2 diabetes can still manage a healthy lifestyle and reduce their dependence on insulin to a great extent. However, it is a mandatory medication for those who have type 1 diabetes.

The risk factors associated with dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of fluids from one’s body. It can be caused due to something as simple as not having an adequate water intake or perhaps a severe medical side effect. The symptoms of fluid loss caused due to this condition can affect people of all ages. From toddlers and infants to older adults, one can experience mild to severe dehydration depending on the primary cause of the same. Herein, we shall try and understand the severity and risk factors associated with dehydration in people of different ages. Children and infants At a very young age, infants and children are more susceptible to bacterial infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Both result in the rapid loss of fluids. Note that infants lose more fluids in comparison to adults. Young children, especially toddlers, unlike adults, may also not realize when they are thirsty. This increases the risk of staying dehydrated unknowingly until severe symptoms indicate the same. It is one of the main reasons why doctors prescribe electrolyte-rich fluids for children experiencing a high fever to help replenish the lost fluids. Seniors and older adults Adults after a certain age face more difficulties as the body gradually loses its ability to conserve water. One’s sense of thirst also becomes acute with old age, which further increases the risk. Individuals might not feel thirsty enough to have the recommended intake of water every day, further causing problems due to the loss of fluids. Furthermore, dehydration can be a direct result of certain prescription medications used for treating diabetes. The side effects can result in a fluid imbalance as medications increase the urine output, thus resulting in a higher loss of fluids from the body. Many medications also list vomiting and diarrhea as potential side effects and both can trigger a severe loss of fluids in the body.

Must-have nutrients and foods for optimal eye health

Our sensory organs are extremely essential in our daily life. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to stand straight, see things, taste, communicate, and live the way we do. But the power of sight is one of the most important of them all. Maintaining good eye health is necessary, and, unsurprisingly, making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices is crucial for this. So, here are a few nutrients you should add to your daily diet to keep your vision in top-notch condition: Vitamin A The deficiency of vitamin A is one of the most common causes of blindness across the globe. Why is this vitamin so important? Well, for starters, it helps manage and maintain the light-sensing cells in your eyes. A lack of vitamin A can cause dry eyes and other serious eye conditions. Best food with vitamin A content: To get the right amount of vitamin A in your diet and maintain optimal eye health, include foods like apricots, carrots, spinach, and yam in your diet in plenty. Vitamin C Vitamin C is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor (the liquid in the outermost part of the eye). The amount of this vitamin in the aqueous humor is proportional to the amount in your diet, and research has proved that people with cataracts tend to have low amounts of vitamin C in their bodies. Best dietary sources of vitamin C: Citrus fruits like oranges, kiwi, lime, and strawberries are all great sources of vitamin C. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts are also healthy sources of this vitamin. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are essential to maintain good eye health. DHA aids eye function. It is present in the retina and is an integral part of brain and eye development in children. Evidence also proves the benefits of omega-3 supplements for people with dry eyes.

Understanding the different aspects of a flu outbreak

Flu or influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can result in mild to severe illness and health complications. A severe flu infection can result in hospitalization and can even prove to be fatal, especially in young children, older people aged above 65, and people with underlying health conditions. There are two main types of flu viruses: Type A and Type B virus. The illness can be periodical and result in seasonal flu epidemics each year. The cold, flu, and its symptoms such as cough is caused due to the type of the viruses mentioned above. Influenza may not always be considered by most people as a serious illness, its symptoms comprising a runny nose, headaches, cough, and muscle pain can be confused with those of a heavy cold. Yet reports suggest that seasonal influenza can claim up to 650,000 lives every year. That is why influenza vaccinations are important because they protect people, especially those in at-risk categories, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with vulnerable immune systems or underlying health conditions. What most of us call “the flu” is essentially seasonal influenza because it comes around in the coldest season twice a year, once in the Northern hemisphere’s winter, and once in the Southern hemisphere’s winter in temperate zones of the world. The flu circulates year-round in the tropics and subtropics, which makes it more contagious. The worst part about the influenza virus is that it constantly mutates, enabling it to evade the mechanisms of our immune systems. The virus learns from the responses of the human body and creates a suitable defensive mechanism to survive the attack by the immune system. When a new virus emerges, it can easily infect people and spread due to its contagiousness. Very little to no immunity to a new strain can lead to a simple outbreak becoming an epidemic or a pandemic within no time.

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9 most common types of depression you should know about

9 most common types of depression you should know about

All of us feel low, upset, and unmotivated at some point in our life, but this isn’t classified as depression. Depression is a mood disorder that overshadows a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Signs and symptoms of this grave disorder can range from feeling hopeless and tired to completely losing the will to live. There are several types of depression and they are listed below so you can understand depression and people suffering from it better. Major Depression (Clinical Depression) The hallmark trait of this type of depression is the constant feeling of sadness or loss of interest in social life or any outside stimuli. It often lasts for two weeks or more in which a person can experience symptoms such as hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder) Dysthymia lasts for years and can disrupt daily life and interfere with personal and professional relationships. Individuals with dysthymia are often seen as dark, pessimistic, or complainers by others, and they have a hard time being happy in typically pleasant situations. Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder) People with manic depression experience high degrees of mood swings. Their train of thought can take them from feeling euphoric to feeling suicidal in just a few weeks. It is very common to get into a depressive state before or after the manic episode. Postpartum Depression (Peripartum Depression) This depression episode is characterized by dramatic hormonal changes in women after giving birth. They may tend to experience bouts of sadness and cry anytime. The symptoms usually alleviate after a week or two of giving birth. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) People with this type of depression start experiencing depressive symptoms with a change in seasons. For many, it happens during winter. The individual starts feeling worse as the season progresses and can even have suicidal thoughts.
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Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Pregnancy is a new experience in every couple’s life, and one should understand a few things to ensure that the nine months are smooth and stress-free. Simply being prepared for pregnancy and looking forward to the joy of parenthood is not all there’s to childbirth. As a couple, you must understand, review, and adjust your lifestyle. Expecting mothers become their child’s nurturers and supporters from day one, but the expecting fathers, close relatives, and friends must also understand the key roles they will play right up to the due date. Here are a few simple family and pregnancy guide points to help you and your folks get started: Staying healthy Physical and mental wellbeing is extremely crucial for the expecting mother to ensure both her and the baby’s health. Diet plays a crucial role in this process, as the mother is now providing nutrition for the developing fetus as well as herself. As a family, you can take turns to ensure that the to-be mother is staying physically active, eating healthy and regularly, and not cultivating any bad habits. More importantly, family and loved ones should be prepared for the changes to come in the upcoming trimesters. Coping with changes – what to expect Morning sickness in the first trimester is quite common and can put a woman’s body under tremendous stress. Nausea and vomiting may also cause headaches, but medications cannot always be taken, as they may affect the baby’s health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause extreme mood swings, so everyone around must be prepared to deal with this. Maintaining a healthy relationship with one’s partner and responding to their needs is crucial to ensure a healthy pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, when the baby starts developing quickly. Counseling One of the more crucial aspects of family and pregnancy planning is prenatal counseling.
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