3 ways to manage a urinary tract infection

3 ways to manage a urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are characterized by burning sensations, abdominal pain, and cloudy urine. These infections are significantly more common in women than in men and can affect any part of one’s urinary tract including the kidneys, bladder, and even the urethra. If left untreated, UTIs should not be left untreated as they can lead to severe pain and other serious complications. Read on to know about the ways to keep UTIs in check: Get the right treatment FETROJA® (cefiderocol), is a cephalosporin antibacterial treatment option used to tackle complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs). These include pyelonephritis caused due to susceptible Gram-negative microorganisms. This treatment is prescribed to individuals over 18 years of age. It is often a last resort for those who have limited or no alternative treatment options. Common side effects of FETROJA® include diarrhea, injection site reaction, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Individuals may also experience constipation, rash, cough, and low blood potassium levels. FETROJA® can interact with other ongoing treatments, so it is best to consult a doctor before going for this treatment option. Eat the right foods Foods can go a long way in managing UTIs. Berries such as cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries can help fight UTIs. This is because they contain proanthocyanidins, which prevent the infection-causing bacteria from growing on the urinary tract. Probiotics and high-fiber foods can also help manage UTIs. Probiotics such as yogurt and pickles contain good bacteria, which prevent UTIs while high-fiber foods such as bananas, nuts, and lentils can improve bowel movement and reduce the pressure on the bladder. While such foods can help improve urinary tract health and prevent infections, spicy foods and caffeinated drinks can increase the risk of developing UTIs. Make lifestyle changes Aside from treatment and foods, there are some lifestyle changes that can help with with reducing the risk of developing UTIs.
4 ways to donate to cancer patients

4 ways to donate to cancer patients

A cancer patient goes through extensive treatment procedures. These procedures can lower their energy levels and affect their mental health. They become physically weak too. Such patients need a lot of emotional support. Supporting them in the form of donations is one way to help cancer patients. One can also help by raising awareness about the condition in the locality. Here are four ways through which you can donate to cancer patients. Fundraise This is a great way to not just donate your money but also inspire others to do so. There are several charities and NGOs that run a fundraising campaign whenever required. More importantly, there are several websites that can facilitate the process of fundraising. In fact, you can even start your own small fundraiser campaign locally. You can then donate the proceeds to a cancer awareness society, cancer hospitals, NGOs, or charities. Blood donations Many cancer patients rely on blood transfusions for their treatment and recovery. This is one of the most effective ways of helping out. Find a donor bank in your locality and register yourself. If you are a healthy, 16-year-old that weighs a minimum of 110 pounds, and have proper identification, you are eligible to donate. The process only takes about 10-15 minutes. Blood transfusions can help relieve certain symptoms in cancer patients. They can also help in improving their overall quality of life. Volunteer Volunteering opportunities are a great way to support cancer patients. There are many advocacy groups that are constantly looking for volunteers. One can also contact their local hospital, cancer center, or place of worship for more information on volunteering opportunities. Volunteering can be a highly rewarding experience. As a volunteer, you can spread awareness about cancer, connect with the patient’s family and friends, and be available for their support.
5 early signs of dementia one should not ignore

5 early signs of dementia one should not ignore

Dementia is incredibly common, with more than 10 million new cases registered every year globally. People with this mental health condition suffer from a gradual weakening of brain functionality. This results in a host of issues, such as difficulty memorizing things, struggle with simple movements, and an inability to communicate thoughts. Certain silent signs can help doctors diagnose this condition in its initial stages. Some of these early signs are: Frequent mood shifts Abrupt mood shifts are one of the early signs of dementia. A person with the condition may go from extremely irritated to happy in a matter of minutes. Identifying such mood shifts may be hard for the patient, but those around are likely to notice them. Misplacing things Forgetfulness is another early indicator. Individuals with dementia may misplace their belongings more frequently and in unusual areas. For instance, one may place a spoon inside their wallet, a set of house keys inside a sugar bowl, or an iron inside the refrigerator. Speech and language problems While speaking, it is common for everyone to sometimes struggle to find the right words. However, people with dementia often use incorrect words, or words with a different meaning and context, in any situation. For instance, someone with the condition may utter something like “My reclamation is complete” when they intend to say that they have finished a particular task. Confusion about time and place This is one of the most evident early signs. Dementia patients frequently inquire about the place they are in, even though they have been there several times before. Losing sense of the time of the day is also common. Repetition People with dementia may repeat specific sentences or phrases over and over again during a conversation. They may also repeat daily tasks, such as brushing their teeth, forgetting they have already done it.
4 warning signs a child is neglected

4 warning signs a child is neglected

Disheartening as it is, child abuse and neglect is a rampant issues in the country. According to the CDC, 1 in 7 children experienced abuse and neglect last year. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the early warning signs of child neglect to tackle this problem at its roots. This can take more than one form and manifest as physical, emotional, educational, or medical neglect. Here are some early warning signs to watch out for: Poor appearance and hygiene This may include the child being smelly or dirty, hungry, not being given money for food, having unwashed clothes, having inappropriate clothing for the weather, or having frequent or untreated nappy rashes (in infants). Health and development problems These issues may include anemia, poor muscle tone, prominent joints, medical or dental issues, missed medical appointments, poor language or social skills, recurring infections, repeated accidental injuries caused by a lack of supervision, skin issues such as sores, rashes, flea bites, scabies or ringworm, thin or swollen tummy, tiredness, untreated injuries, and growth issues. Housing and family issues Some of these warning signs may include the child living in unsuitable housing conditions, such as no heating or running water, being left alone for long periods, not having a curfew or bedtime, or taking on the role of carer for other family members. Change in behavior Changes in behavior may manifest as showing sudden changes in behavior or school performance, becoming more clingy or aggressive, being withdrawn, having poor peer relationships or an inability to relate to children of the same age, begging or stealing food or money, depressed, or anxious, changes in eating habits, displaying obsessive behavior, difficulty in focusing, having a poor record of attendance at school, being constantly watchful (preparing for something to go wrong), or showing signs of self-harm. Conclusion Having one of the above signs does not necessarily mean the child faces neglect.
4 ways to maintain a water tank

4 ways to maintain a water tank

Maintaining a clean and sanitized water tank is essential for ensuring the health and well-being of your household. This is why it is critical to know the best ways to clean your water tank. From regular inspections to thorough cleaning methods, practical tips and examples are beneficial to homeowners. By implementing these tips, you’ll be able to enhance water quality, prevent contamination, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your water supply is clean. Regular inspections and maintenance If you want to stay on top of water tank hygiene, ensure you are keeping up with regular checks and maintenance. Any possible signs of cracks, leaks, or damage could result in a tank’s integrity being compromised. You will also need to regularly check your pipes, fittings, and valves. Conducting daily inspections allows you to address problems early on and avoid costly repairs or water quality issues down the line. Flushing and draining the tank It is common knowledge that draining and flushing a water tank periodically helps avoid any debris, sedimentation, and stagnant water from being accumulated. The first step to doing this is turning off the tank’s water supply. Next, open the drain valve and allow the tank to be completely drained. Once that is done, you can turn off the valve and restart the supply to let the tank refill. Flushing the tank ensures that the water remains clean and prevents the buildup of harmful bacteria or contaminants. Scrubbing and disinfecting the tank One crucial aspect of maintaining water quality in a tank is through cleaning that’s followed up by disinfection. A great way to get the job done is by scrubbing the inside of the tank with the help of a long-handled brush and a non-toxic cleaner. Pay special attention to the seams and corners of the water tanks as these areas are easily prone to buildup or residue.
4 bad habits that can cause muscle cramps

4 bad habits that can cause muscle cramps

Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary spasms or contractions in one or more muscles. Although they last only a few seconds or minutes, the accompanying pain can be torturous to bear. The cramps can result from various factors, including poor lifestyle habits many people unknowingly indulge in on a daily basis. Here, we have listed a few common bad habits to avoid as far as possible to prevent painful muscle cramping. Not drinking enough water Not drinking enough water, especially during summer, can be problematic. Heat causes the body to lose a lot of fluid content through perspiration. To make up for that, one should consume at least three to four liters of water daily, if not more. Not doing so can cause dehydration, which reduces a person’s blood volume. A reduced blood volume, in turn, leads to lesser blood, oxygen, and nutrients flowing to the organs and muscles, resulting in muscle cramps. Dehydration primarily causes cramping in the stomach due to the digestive system’s massive fluid requirements. Not consuming enough electrolytes A lack of electrolytes in the body is another major cause of muscle cramping. Certain minerals like magnesium and calcium have electrolytic properties that perform essential functions. For instance, they help maintain electrical neutrality in cells and support muscle and nerve health. An electrolyte imbalance leads to problems like increased nerve excitability and cramping. So, one must not only consume fluids regularly but also foods rich in electrolytes. Exercising too much Over-exercising, or straining oneself in the gym during workout sessions, causes muscle fatigue. This affects how the nerves function and, subsequently, causes muscle contractions and cramping. Therefore, one must not spend too much time exercising. About an hour or two of working out is adequate for most people. Consuming foods full of trans fats Overeating foods with trans fats can increase the frequency of cramping.
3 types of common signs of Huntington’s disease

3 types of common signs of Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease or Huntington disease results in a progressive breakdown or a degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. This is a rare disease, typically passed down through generations, which means it is inherited. It impacts the functional abilities of a person, leading to cognitive, movement, and psychiatric disorders. There is no treatment to cure the disease completely; however, there are options to help manage the symptoms. Here are common signs of the disease. Signs and symptoms of Huntington’s disease The symptoms vary from person to person, as there is a wide spectrum of signs to look out for. Here are some symptoms that can be observed in patients: Movement disorders This kind of disorder involves not just involuntary movement disorders but also impaired movement disorders. Examples include writhing movements called chorea or involuntary jerking. Muscle issues like rigidity or muscle contracture (also called dystonia), slow or unusual eye movements, difficulty with speech or swallowing, and impaired gait, posture, and balance are noted. These disorders may impact an individual’s day-to-day activities. As Huntington’s can affect one’s nerves and muscles, it may also adversely impact one’s digestive system and bowel movements, leading to constipation, incontinence, and diarrhea. Cognitive disorders The impairments associated with Huntington’s disease include difficulty in organizing, prioritizing, and focusing on tasks. There is also a symptom of being stuck on a thought, behavior, or action, which can get stressful. Lack of impulse control can also lead to behaviors like acting out without thinking or even sexual promiscuity. There is also a noticeable lack of awareness of one’s own behaviors and abilities, the inability to think fast, the difficulty in processing thoughts and forming words, and an unusual difficulty in learning new information. Psychiatric disorders One of the most common psychiatric disorders associated with Huntington’s is depression. It is to be noted that depression does not develop after the diagnosis of the disease but is developed because of the changes in brain function due to the disease.
5 ways prostate cancer can cause bladder damage

5 ways prostate cancer can cause bladder damage

Cancer is a mutation that triggers the rapid multiplication of healthy cells, leading to tissue damage in the affected area. Cancer in the prostate can cause bladder damage, although it’s important to note that not all cases of prostate cancer will lead to bladder damage. The damage’s extent depends on many factors, including the cancer’s stage, location, and the individual’s overall health. Here are some ways in which prostate cancer can lead to bladder damage. Tumor Growth Prostate cancer typically originates in the prostate gland located near the base of the bladder. As the cancer cells multiply and form a tumor triggered by the uncontrolled mutation, they can press against the bladder. This pressure leads to bladder irritation, reduced capacity, and difficulty emptying the bladder completely. Invasion of the Bladder In advanced prostate cancer, the cancer cells may invade the bladder or nearby structures, such as the urethra. This invasion can physically damage the bladder walls, causing inflammation and reducing bladder function. Obstruction of the Urethra The prostate gland mainly surrounds the urethra, a tube from where urine flows out of the bladder. As prostate cancer progresses, it can cause the prostate to enlarge (a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH), or cancerous tissue can obstruct the urethra directly. This results in urinary retention, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and backflow of urine into the bladder, potentially causing bladder damage over time. Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy is a prevalent treatment for prostate cancer. While it can effectively target and destroy cancer cells, it may also damage nearby healthy tissue, including the bladder. Radiation-induced damage can result in inflammation, scarring, and changes in bladder function. This problem will depend on the extent of the exposure and severity of the cancer. Surgical Treatments Surgical procedures for prostate cancer, such as radical prostatectomy, can sometimes lead to damage to the bladder or surrounding structures.
6 signs of ulcerative colitis to look out for

6 signs of ulcerative colitis to look out for

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine. Along with the inner lining of the large intestine, it can also affect the rectum and the colon. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can be discomforting and lead to severe complications if left untreated. Hence, it is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis for timely diagnosis and management. Abdominal pain and cramping A common sign of this disease is abdominal pain and cramping. It can range from mild to severe and may come and go, but it is often exacerbated during flare-ups. If a person is experiencing pain in their left side, it may indicate left-sided colitis. Diarrhea Another telltale sign of ulcerative colitis is frequent diarrhea. Also, it is usually followed by an urgent inclination to pass stool. This symptom can be distressing and disruptive to daily life. The diarrhea may also be accompanied by mucus and can increase during a flare-up. Blood in stool The presence of blood in stool is a concerning symptom of ulcerative colitis. This symptom can result from inflammation and ulcers in the colon’s lining. Along with blood, pus and mucus can be present in stools. Nausea People with this condition may experience periods of nausea, which can contribute to an overall sense of discomfort. Nausea is also linked to the ulcer and inflammation in the large intestine. Fatigue An overwhelming sense of weakness and fatigue may also indicate ulcerative colitis. This fatigue can worsen if a person experiences multiple episodes of diarrhea in a day, which can lead to an electrolyte imbalance. Also, the weakness is caused due to blood loss that has occurred via stools. Inability to pass stools, despite the urgency In some cases, people with ulcerative colitis may also experience an inability to pass stools despite having an urgent inclination to do so.
4 high-risk public places for respiratory viruses

4 high-risk public places for respiratory viruses

Respiratory viruses are a global health concern, leading to many illnesses and diseases that can be prevented cautiously. These viruses usually spread through contact with contaminated spaces, airborne droplets, aerosols, and similar mediums. Some public places can be at high risk for spreading such respiratory viruses, and it is essential to be careful of such spaces. Here are a few places where viruses can spread rapidly: 1. Public transport Nearly everyone takes public transportation, if not within the city, but to travel outside the city, country, or continent. This involves going through crowded spaces, buses, airplanes, and trains. These are often hotspots for disease spreading, as public transport mediums are always filled with people. They are poorly ventilated, so respiratory droplets can easily infect anyone. There are frequent touchpoints, like surfaces like seats, handrails, and even door panels. 2. Entertainment venues Places like concert halls, sports arenas, theaters, and wedding venues are a few examples of high-risk zones for respiratory viruses. Activities like singing and cheering can release more respiratory droplets in the air, which can easily affect some people. If it is an indoor seating venue, the ventilation is not good enough to filter out the toxins, and it does not help that all the people are sitting near each other, which increases the risk of transmission. 3. Hospitals Hospitals or emergency care centers are filled with patients with possibly weakened and vulnerable immune systems and illnesses. This makes them more susceptible to infections and also carriers of some infections. One also comes into contact with healthcare providers who tend to patients who are carriers of viruses. While they take appropriate preventive measures, there could still be asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic carriers of respiratory viruses, which can quickly be passed on to patients or other visitors. 4. Long-term care facilities In nursing facilities, an aging population often stays there, making them more susceptible to contracting viruses and illnesses.
7 early signs of acute respiratory viruses

7 early signs of acute respiratory viruses

Acute respiratory infections refer to a broad category of illnesses, like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, that affect the lower and upper respiratory tract. A significant number of these infections are caused by respiratory viruses, posing a health risk to individuals of all ages. Common respiratory viruses include influenza, rhinoviruses, common cold viruses, and adenovirus. These viruses can invade the respiratory tract, leading to inflammation and a cascade of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Early signs of respiratory infections Here are some of the early signs of severe respiratory infections caused by viruses: Fever If you experience a sudden onset of high fever, especially if it exceeds 103°F, could be a sign of viral infection. Fever is the body’s natural response to fight infections, indicating that the immune system is working to eliminate the virus. You may also experience chills along with fever. Congestion and sore throat Nasal congestion and a sore throat are among the initial symptoms of viral infection in the respiratory tract and can cause further discomfort. Cough A cough is often the body’s way of clearing the airways of mucus and foreign particles. Coughing may start as mild irritation and develop into a more severe, persistent cough over time as the infection worsens. Shortness of breath As a severe respiratory virus progresses, it can lead to inflammation of the airways and lungs, making it increasingly difficult for the affected individual to breathe. Shortness of breath indicates that the virus is impacting the respiratory system more severely. Apart from this, one may also experience dizziness if the infection has advanced. Chest pain Severe respiratory viruses can cause chest pain due to the inflammation of the lungs. This pain is often described as a sharp, stabbing sensation that worsens with deep breaths or coughing. Fatigue A sudden drop in energy levels or general weakness can indicate a viral infection.
4 mistakes to avoid when traveling by train

4 mistakes to avoid when traveling by train

Traveling by train is a privilege not everyone can have on a daily basis. Moreover, traversing long distances by train can be exciting and challenging. Despite its seemingly straightforward nature, people make some mistakes when traveling by train. First-time or infrequent travelers generally make these mistakes, which can reduce the overall experience of long-distance train journeys. Here are four common mistakes to avoid when traveling by train. Relying solely on train food A common mistake people tend to make in the pre-booking phase is assuming that food will be served onboard the train. That detail is usually specified in the itinerary and can be seen when one books a ticket online or offline. One should certainly know whether the train they are boarding for a long journey has food served onboard or not. Once in, another common mistake people make is relying solely on train food. Now, eating train food is convenient; however, it is still processed food to a certain degree, and its health-related credibility can be slightly questionable. Ideally, one should get food from home when on a train journey. Not reading the itinerary carefully The itinerary contains all the details of a given journey, such as the stations at which the train will stop, the ETA at the destination, and the seat information. Not reading all these details carefully and then not making necessary changes can be significant mistakes, especially if they come in as shocks during the journey itself. That can be corrected by avoiding the next mistake on the list. Not booking tickets in advance People often miss reading the tickets or itinerary carefully when in a hurry. That happens when travelers book their tickets and the holiday schedule at the last minute. When one books at such a late stage, the ticket prices are at their highest, the best seats are often taken, and travelers have little choice in anything they wish to include in their reservation.