Top 5 early signs of menopause

Top 5 early signs of menopause

The end of a female’s menstrual cycle, known as menopause, typically occurs in the late 40s or 50s. Women may experience various uncomfortable signs and symptoms leading up to this period, making daily activities challenging. It’s important to understand these symptoms, as they can persist for years after menstruation ceases. Seeking advice from a doctor on effective management is crucial. Let’s explore these signs in detail further. Anxiety The menopause period brings a lot of hormonal changes that can have physical and psychological effects on females. 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 females 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. Hot flushes It can be frustrating and uncomfortable to experience sudden changes in body temperature, especially during menopause. Hot flashes are a common symptom that can occur at any time of day or night, leading to night sweats and feelings of anxiety. These hot flashes often affect the neck, face, and chest and can cause the skin to become red and sweaty. If you are experiencing these symptoms, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional to help manage them is important. Reduced libido With the hormonal changes in the body, the vagina also responds by becoming less moist and turning dry. Reduced libido or sex drive is also a common sign and should not be ignored.
Top 4 online psychiatry platforms

Top 4 online psychiatry platforms

Technological advancements have enabled access to therapy from the comfort of home. So, psychiatrists can provide their services via virtual sessions. Online psychiatry services are especially beneficial for those who may not be able to visit a mental health professional in person or those who can not find suitable therapists nearby. Today, several online platforms facilitate psychiatric consultations. To make choosing a provider easier, here are some of the best platforms one can consider: 1. Teladoc Teladoc is among the most reputed online platforms for accessing therapy and psychiatric consultation. One of the platform’s key features is the option to choose a therapist or psychiatrist. One can see if they are comfortable with their choice and then continue to consult the same therapist for all sessions or choose a different one. This platform is accessible through both website and mobile application. So, users can attend therapy sessions via video chats on the electronic device of their choice. Another great feature of this platform is its pay-per-session model instead of a fixed subscription model. So, one can schedule and skip sessions if necessary. 2. Talkspace Talkspace is another great platform for online therapy and psychiatrist consultation. It offers a different approach when it comes to choosing a therapist. The platform asks users to take an assessment based on which they are matched with the most suitable psychiatrist. If one wishes to switch their provider, they can do that for no additional cost. A great thing about Talkspace is that, along with live video consultations, it offers call and text consultations at a lower price. 3. Brightside Brightside is another common online service provider that offers psychotherapy and psychiatric consultations. This platform also offers consultations via live video chats and instant messaging, so one can text their therapist at any time. This is a subscription based service that charges users on a monthly basis.
Safe food options during immune thrombocytopenia

Safe food options during immune thrombocytopenia

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a condition in which patients can bleed or bruise easily and excessively. Seeking proper professional guidance and therapy is crucial in such situations, but that alone cannot help improve the quality of life. Healthy lifestyles and food choices can also play a pivotal role in helping these patients combat the disease. Therapy and healthy food choices go hand in hand to provide better patient care and ensure minimum health risks. Fats Avoiding fats from one’s meals is not a recommended approach to healthy meals. Foods rich in healthy unsaturated fats also bring numerous nutrients to the table. This includes options like nuts and seeds, avocados, nut butter, and high-quality cooking oils or ghee. Including healthy fats in meals can also help immune thrombocytopenia patients cope better with their stress. The higher number of calories in these food products proves beneficial to the body. Avoiding unhealthy or saturated fats in meals is one of the most common pieces of advice people with any health condition get. This is especially important for people who stand a risk of cardiac diseases. Since ITP patients are prescribed prolonged corticosteroid usage, food that can negatively impact the heart should be avoided as much as possible. Therefore, eliminating or avoiding foods containing saturated or trans fats is sound advice. Meat Having healthy portions of protein in each meal helps the body recover and maintain steady energy and sugar levels. It is, therefore, essential to include good quality lean protein sourced from foods like eggs, beans and lentils, poultry, nuts and seeds, and fish. Meat is also a reliable source of iron, a mineral that could be found lacking in people with ITP. On the other hand, processed meat sources are a definite no on the list of foods ITP patients can enjoy.
Unique gifting ideas for him

Unique gifting ideas for him

It’s time to start putting together a list of gifts and checking them off. While men may have many options to surprise women, gifting the former entails a different story. Also, it is difficult to think about things that might actually make them happy and be of any use to them. That said, you don’t have to stress about finding the perfect present. Refer to our comprehensive list below to get unique gifting ideas. Digital tools Make life easier for the men in your life by gifting them smart devices. If smartwatches and devices feel too mainstream, opt for tools that make working around the house easier. This can include getting a digital measuring device that calculates height or distance. Thermometers are also a great option for those that like to cook. Coffee maker If a functional gift is what you’re considering giving your special someone – be it your father, brother, or significant other – a coffee maker is a great option. You can add some pods, brew options, and even some flavorings if you want to put together a gift basket for them. If they like their coffee a specific way, add in some bags of their favorite grind or get them fresh beans to use. Jacket Gifting a jacket to your man is doing the service of adding style to his wardrobe. You are also giving him something functional that he will gladly use. You can check the stores near you for what is the latest offering. Alternatively, you can also check for a classic fleece-lined jacket or a biker jacket that will elevate their casuals with little to no effort. SmartMug If you do not know what this is, allow us to explain. SmartMugs are electronic or battery-operated mugs that come with a coaster-like contraption, which is, in fact, a heating device.
8 things to avoid while considering surface cleaners

8 things to avoid while considering surface cleaners

Surface cleaners play a pivotal role in helping one maintain a clean and hygienic living environment. They help get rid of dirt, germs, and stains, leaving the home’s surfaces sparkling and safe. But, choosing the right product is not always a straightforward process. Individuals must note several factors when considering surface cleaners to ensure effectiveness and safety. Here are some of these critical aspects to help consumers make informed choices. 8 things to avoid while considering surface cleaners Harsh chemicals Avoid cleaners that contain harsh chemicals in their ingredients list, especially for everyday use. These include chemicals like bleach, ammonia, sodium hydroxide, emulsifiers like MEA, DEA, and TEA, SLS and SLES, sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate, and petroleum solvents. These chemicals can harm one’s health, irritate the skin and eyes, and emit harmful fumes. One can either go for eco-friendly alternatives in the market, like white vinegar or essential oils, or make natural cleaners at home. Unlabeled surface cleaners Choose products with clear, complete ingredient lists or labels. Avoid products that don’t disclose their ingredients, as it may be difficult to assess their safety and effectiveness. Lack of safety information Check for safety information on the label, such as whether the product is safe for use around pets or children. Avoid products that lack this important information. Environmentally toxic products Consider products that are environmentally friendly and biodegradable whenever possible. Avoid cleaners that contain pollutants or non-biodegradable ingredients that can harm ecosystems. One can also look for products that carry certifications for environmental and safety standards. This can provide assurance of a product’s quality and safety. Excessive fragrance Some surface cleaners contain strong fragrances that can trigger allergies or sensitivities. Look for products labeled as fragrance-free or with mild scents if one is sensitive to fragrances. Ignoring special needs If one has specific cleaning needs, such as allergies or asthma, one should consider cleaners designed for those conditions.
6 key things to consider when selling a house

6 key things to consider when selling a house

Selling a house is a significant task that requires careful planning and knowledge of the real estate market. Whether one’s a first-time seller or an experienced one, certain critical factors to consider can influence the speed of the sale, the transaction process, and, ultimately, the selling price. By having the right information and lucrative strategies, one can navigate the complexities of the selling process and maximize the home’s market potential. Market analysis Understanding current market trends is crucial. But one must determine whether it’s a buyer’s or a seller’s market. This knowledge can create the pricing strategy and expectations. Additionally, analyzing the demand around the location of the house can be helpful. Look for factors that buyers search for in a home. Tailoring the home’s appeal to suit buyer preferences can attract more offers. Determining the right price Setting a competitive price is vital. An overpriced home can lead to the property being unsold for an extended time, whereas setting a low price may result in a loss of potential profit. Consider seeking help from professional appraisers to evaluate the right price point. Be prepared to negotiate. Having a clear, lowest acceptable price in mind will help one negotiate confidently. House staging Addressing any necessary repairs and considering modest upgrades can enhance the home’s appeal. Ensure to focus on cost-effective changes that could increase the home’s value, such as painting or fixing fixtures. A clean, decluttered, and well-staged house makes a strong impression, helping potential buyers envision themselves living in the space. Use of marketing strategies High-quality images are essential for making a compelling online listing. Consider hiring a professional photographer to showcase the property best. Don’t forget to list the house on multiple platforms to reach a broader audience. Legal and financial considerations Be honest and upfront about any issues with the property.
Air filters – types and cost

Air filters – types and cost

When it comes to air quality, there cannot be any compromises. This is why it is important to figure out what type of air filter matches your needs perfectly. This can be done by understanding the various types of air filters and how much each costs. You can always cut down on costs by shopping online and using air filter coupons. But first, let’s take a look at the different types of air filters. HEPA filters High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the most reliable and effective ones among the lot. They filter out 99.97 percent of dust, mold, and other particulate matter from the air. They are the best option for people dealing with respiratory disorders. However, you may need a professional to install the filter. HEPA filters cost anywhere from $10 to $75, depending on the size and quality of the product. UV filters As the name suggests, these filters use ultraviolet light to destroy any germs, viruses, or bacteria in the air. However, they are not quite effective in keeping out dust particles and allergens. Therefore, they are often used in combination with another filter. They cost anywhere between $60 to $225. They can be hazardous to the human body in the long run. Washable filters Washable filters are environment-friendly and can help you save a few bucks. This is because they last for a long time, are easy to maintain, and can be easily installed at home. They have to be washed once every few months and dried before being installed back into the machine. They cost anywhere from $30 to $60 or higher, but are a great investment as they are long-lasting and efficient. Spun glass filters Spun glass filters are commonly used for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They are cost-effective and are great at filtering out dust and debris.
3 tips for buying the right running shoes

3 tips for buying the right running shoes

Picking the right pair of running shoes is the first and most important step for an everyday jogger. It can protect your feet and legs from injury and even elevate your running experience. So, if you’ve been wondering how to purchase the right pair of running shoes for your feet, here are some tips that can help: Choose a pair that’s designed for running Running shoes often look like sneakers but are far superior. Running shoes are designed to prevent damage to the knees and ankle. Special cushioning and added foam help with shock absorption. So, when you’re buying running shoes, keep in mind to steer clear of sneakers or comfort wear. Note that there are also three different types of running shoes available: everyday running shoes that are the most durable; lightweight running shoes that are suited for workouts; and trail running shoes that are suited for muddy, rocky trails. The right fit matters Aside from picking the right type of running shoes, you need to get a well-fitting pair. Wearing ill-fitted running shoes can put you at risk of extreme pain and injury. To make sure you pick the right size, try going shopping at the end of the day. This is because your feet can swell throughout the day, so trying out shoes in the afternoon or evening can help you get a more accurate fit. Keep in mind that you do not want your feet to be pinched in your shoes, so, try leaving a distance (approximately your thumbs width) between your toes and the end of the shoe. Also note that most shoe sizes accommodate length and not width, so make sure your shoes fit you well both ways. Going out of budget is worth the money Consider splurging a little more than usual and get the pair of running shoes you normally wouldn’t bother looking at.
5 pre-owned SUVs popular for their reliability

5 pre-owned SUVs popular for their reliability

One cannot stress the importance of reliability when it comes to buying an SUV or any used car, for that matter. The automobile might get you the best mileage, looks, features, and performance. But it can get annoying if the vehicle breaks down regularly or needs you to shell out more on repairs than the amount spent on purchasing the SUV. So if you’re shopping for your first used SUV or upgrading to one, here are five reliable options to consider. GMC Terrain The GMC Terrain is one of the most reliable SUVs when it comes to buying a used model. It comes with premium interiors and seating that can carry five people from one destination to the next comfortably. The ride quality of the GMC Terrain is smooth and packs an efficient engine. Customers should be able to purchase a pre-owned model between $19,000 and $28,000. Toyota Highlander The Toyota Highlander is a reliable SUV that is suitable for families. The vehicle is flush with technological features, high-quality interiors, and a powerful standard V6 engine. The Highlander is also awarded a five-star overall safety rating by the NHTSA. Customers can get a pre-owned Toyota highlander starting at $40,000 based on the model they pick. Honda CR-V A used Honda CR-V is usually available starting at $18,000 based on the features and accessories a buyer selects. The SUV is one of the most reliable compact SUVs, with more than sufficient room for passengers, an upscaled cabin, and a massive cargo hold. The CR-V is also known for its safety score and fuel economy. Buick Encore The subcompact SUV is one of the more affordable options for customers who do not want to stretch their budget. The Buick Encore is known for its premium interior, safety ratings, entertainment, and infotainment system.
5 bad habits that lead to poor skin

5 bad habits that lead to poor skin

There is so much advice floating around us when it comes to skincare. From online trends to old lores, it is important to filter this information and create a skincare routine that will get you closer to achieving your skin goals. However, while searching for the right products and foods, several bad habits can wreak havoc on your skin and slow down your progress. Here are five skincare habits that can worsen skin health: Not wearing sunscreen around the year Many of us assume that the sun isn’t bright or visible enough to affect our skin during the winter months. But, the sun’s UV rays still percolate to the ground and can affect your skin. To prevent photodamage from this exposure, wearing sunscreen all year round is important. Not removing your makeup before bed Washing your face before going to bed is one of the most important steps in your skincare routine. Throughout the day, your skin is exposed to several things, such as makeup, dust, dirt, and grime. Washing your face at the end of the day will help you remove these from the surface of your skin so they do not clog your pores and lead to more breakouts. Exfoliating too much Exfoliating once in a while can help remove dead skin cells and impurities from the skin. However, engaging in this practice too often can strip the skin of its essential oils and cause frequent acne flares. Using comedogenic products Some makeup, skincare, and haircare products contain oils that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. When shopping, look for products labeled ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘won’t clog pores,’ as they can help you avoid breakouts. Additionally, do not share your makeup applicators or brushes with others, as cross-contamination can also lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Drying your skin too much Sometimes, you may feel tempted to dry your skin using products for oily skin or astringents to avoid breakouts.
5 tips to stay safe on public Wi-Fi networks

5 tips to stay safe on public Wi-Fi networks

Public Wi-Fi spots are free to use and available across the country. So you can easily connect and enjoy seamless browsing on the go. However, these connections are not completely secured and can easily be hacked by scammers and phishing sites. But you can ensure your browsing experience is safe and not vulnerable to online attacks in a few ways. Here are a few tips to secure your computer while accessing public Wi-Fi hotspots: Pick a secure network Don’t just click on the first Wi-Fi hotspot that shows up in the phone menu. Pick the correct network name if it’s at a coffee shop, as scammers and hackers duplicate these names. However, you should be able to spot the spelling mistakes in these decoy networks and avoid opening such links at all costs. Ask for the official Wi-Fi names at these places, and only then connect to a secure encryption network. Use a VPN A Virtual Provider Network (VPN) connection is one of the best ways to prevent hackers and scammers from publicly accessing your computer’s IP. A VPN is software that masks the real IP address of the computer connected to a public network by rerouting the connection to a private server. So, the real address is not visible as long as the VPN is active. Most premium VPNs provide access to servers across the globe. Configure device settings Laptops, smartphones, and smart tablets are all, by default, configured to locate and select the first available network on a public Wi-Fi hotspot. However, this is how scammers and hackers can quickly gain unauthorized access to your computer. Change the default discovery settings and disable these options. You should always manually choose the preferably password-protected network only after turning on the VPN software. These three simple steps ensure the connection remains private and safe.
4 mistakes to avoid when applying for debit cards online

4 mistakes to avoid when applying for debit cards online

A debit card makes it easy to access money from the bank or an ATM. One could easily spend what’s in their account without carrying cash or writing a check. However, each bank sets its terms and conditions associated with a debit card. Those who sign up for one online without a second thought might often incur unwanted charges. With this in mind, here are four mistakes to avoid when applying for a debit card. Going for the first available option Several banks offer a series of debit card options to customers. However, in a hurry to get things done, people apply for the first card they see online. Doing so may result in paying higher fees than one should or signing up for features that one does not need. Individuals must always take their time when applying for debit cards to ensure they sign up with a suitable provider. Not reading the fine print One of the common mistakes people make when applying for a debit card online is ignoring the fine print. While a bank may offer a debit card free of charge, it might be conditional on eligibility criteria. For example, one might incur charges if they do not spend a certain amount within the first year, such as $500. Reading the conditions also helps one better understand any important aspects of the debit card. Overlooking the ATM withdrawal fees Most individuals who prefer using cash overlook the ATM withdrawal charges levied by their bank. For instance, some financial institutions only offer up to five free transactions per month. Anything above that may incur a certain fee per transaction. In addition to this, banks may levy charges on transactions conducted at out-of-network ATMs. So, one should always check the ATM withdrawal fees when applying for a debit card online.