As the flu season approaches, it is important to keep yourself healthy and free of infections. There is an increased risk of diseases like respiratory syncytial virus (RSVI), human metapneumovirus (HPMV), adenovirus, parainfluenza, and others, especially when you are regularly out and about. While stepping out is unavoidable, there are several hotspots to be wary of. Here are some traditional hotspots for respiratory illnesses that everyone is likely to encounter. Doorknobs and drawer handles Handles and knobs on doors and drawers happen to be the most frequently touched surfaces around the home. Due to this reason, they have become hotspots for the transmission of diseases. To avoid these, it is vital to regularly wash your hands and wipe these spots with a disinfectant a few times a day. Keyboards and electronic keypads Keyboards and electronic keypads are also touched often but are seldom cleaned. This makes them another hotspot for the transfer of disease and infections. Be sure to wipe down the keyboard/keypad with a disinfectant after each use. Shared cutlery and tableware It is common for people to share their utensils and drinkware at home and in the office. However, this could lead to the transmission of infections from one person to the other.

A person’s daily meals are vital for their overall cardiovascular health. Regularly consuming healthy and nutrient-rich foods can help one’s heart and circulatory system function efficiently, providing oxygen and nutrients to all body parts. However, certain foods can worsen symptoms of conditions like atrial fibrillation, where the heart beats too quickly. This article discusses 4 foods to avoid to prevent the development or worsening of such conditions. Read on to learn more. Salted chips Salt is a major cause of heart issues in individuals, so healthcare experts advise people with existing heart conditions to consume it in moderation (only 1,200 milligrams of sodium daily). Salt contains sodium, which increases the blood volume and makes it harder for the heart to pump it. This leads to atrial fibrillation or a worsening of the condition’s symptoms. Salted potato chips contain massive amounts of salt, making them one of the worst foods for those with atrial fibrillation. High sodium levels in the blood can also cause potassium levels to decrease. Potassium is essential for the heart to work properly and efficiently. Therefore, a potassium deficiency can lessen the effectiveness of one’s cardiovascular system. White bread Gluten is just as bad as salt for people with heart conditions.

High blood sugar can lead to several diabetic eye diseases, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and diabetic macular edema. Several signs of poor eye health usually precede these conditions. If not treated on time, these can lead to permanent eye damage, including blindness. Thus, it is recommended to undergo eye exams regularly when a person has high blood sugar, but before that, here are some warning signs to be aware of. Poor eye health signs to look out for Blurry vision One of the most common signs of poor eye health due to high sugar levels is blurry vision. If the level of sugar in the blood exceeds a certain limit, it can cause the eye lenses to swell. This affects the vision, making things appear blurry and unclear. Many people often mistake this sign for a change in the power of their prescription glasses. However, if someone has high blood sugar, it is best to get the sugar levels checked and consult a doctor. Experiencing a glare in vision High sugar levels can make the lens of the eyes cloudy. The internal lens of the eyes work similarly to a camera. So whenever the lens gets cloudy, the eyes cannot focus on objects and cannot see properly.

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, can have a significant impact on the quality of life. However, seemingly tiny changes to the daily routine can help one find relief from symptoms. A few daily habits can help people with psoriasis manage their condition and improve overall well-being. From skincare routines to a healthy lifestyle, better choices can help reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and improve skin health.  Identify and avoid triggers One should identify and avoid psoriasis triggers like skincare products, fragrances, harsh weather conditions, stress, and certain foods. Maintaining a journal can help one identify potential triggers. Choose balanced meals Another daily habit to better manage psoriasis symptoms is following a well-balanced meal plan rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. One should also choose foods with anti-inflammatory properties, like fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Exercise regularly Regular physical activity is not only beneficial for physical and mental health but can also help manage psoriasis. Exercise promotes better blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and boosts mood. Use a gentle cleanser A mild, fragrance-free cleanser is the best option for gently cleansing the skin. Harsh soaps and cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

Breathing is our bodies’ innate and essential function, allowing us to absorb life-sustaining oxygen. That said, various lung conditions can disrupt this natural process, leading to breathing difficulties and significant challenges to individuals’ overall well-being. This article attempts to shed light on some of the most common culprits behind breathing difficulty, highlighting the importance of understanding these conditions to promote early detection, effective management, and improved quality of life. Common lung conditions that can cause breathing difficulties The respiratory system is a complex network of organs, including the lungs, bronchi, and airways, that exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. When this intricate system encounters disruptions, breathing difficulties can arise. Here are a few common lung conditions that can contribute to this challenge: Asthma: Asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, affects millions worldwide. It causes the airways to become narrow, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Triggers like allergens, exercise, and stress can provoke asthma attacks, making breathing difficult for those affected. Fortunately, asthma can be effectively managed with proper diagnosis and lifestyle modifications. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): One of the leading causes of breathing difficulty is COPD. COPD is a progressive lung disease encompassing chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

The end of a woman’s menstrual cycle, known as menopause, typically occurs in the late 40s or 50s. It is a natural biological process that marks the end of the reproductive years and is typically diagnosed when a woman has gone through 12 consecutive months without having a menstrual period. Women may experience various uncomfortable signs and symptoms leading up to this period, making daily activities challenging. Here are some indications of menopause. Anxiety The menopause period brings a lot of hormonal changes that can have physical and psychological effects. Commonly experienced feelings include stress, anxiety, and depression. Seeking the help of a therapist is usually recommended to manage these emotional changes. Additionally, joining a support group can benefit those going through these changes. Difficulty sleeping It can be challenging for women experiencing menopause symptoms, especially when getting enough sleep. Insomnia is a significant concern for many women due to the various symptoms they may be experiencing, such as anxiety, hot flashes, and night sweats. While treatments are available to help with sleep, it’s important to note that these symptoms can persist for years and won’t go away quickly. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can help manage these symptoms.

The brain is the point of control for almost every bodily function, from body movements and balance to the functioning of body organs, heart rate, and breathing. Seizure results from disturbances in the brain’s electrical activity, triggering changes in one’s movements, feelings, and behavior and affecting consciousness. Seizures may have many underlying causes, including brain injury, stroke, or a brain tumor. Some hidden warning signs that usually manifest before a seizure are listed below. Jerky muscle movements A myoclonic seizure is a form of seizure that lasts for a brief while and involves the involuntary jerking of muscles. Jerking of muscles indicates an underlying neurological problem and is a seizure sign to watch out for. Staring Some persons with silent or “absence” seizures at the early stages may stare into nothingness for a few seconds before returning to attention. This symptom is generally prevalent among children from 4 to 14 years of age. Loss of consciousness Individuals with tonic-clonic seizures may experience loss of consciousness during seizure attacks, often accompanied by intense muscle contractions. Sometimes, these patients may bite their tongues or lose bladder control during the seizure attack. Anxiety Several patients with seizures and epilepsy report feeling anxious just before a seizure attack.

The heart is the lifeline of the human body, performing several indispensable functions, from supplying oxygen to other body organs and maintaining blood pressure to pumping carbon dioxide to the lungs for exhalation. Unfortunately, approximately one person dies every 33 seconds in the country due to heart disease. Although heart problems may have various causes, diabetes is among the major triggers of cardiovascular conditions. Here are some diabetes-related heart conditions and their early signs: Heart attack Patients with type-2 diabetes are twice as likely to develop diabetes as those with normal blood sugar levels. Moreover, patients with diabetes are susceptible to silent heart attacks, which involve no apparent signs. Swelling in the legs or ankles, sweating, nausea, fatigue, and chest pain are some common signs of a heart attack. Arrhythmia Arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, may develop or aggravate due to diabetes as a result of disruption to the heart’s structure. Increased palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, and a fluttering sensation in the chest are some signs of arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation Studies have shown that diabetes acts as a major risk factor for atrial fibrillation. Diabetes involves structural, autonomic, and electrical changes to the atria, which can contribute to the development of this condition.