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Diagnosis and Treatment Options for High Cholesterol

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for High Cholesterol

The food items we eat greatly influence our health. In today’s food market, processed and junk food is quite high in consumption. This leads to a variety of diseases including high cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy substance in the lipids in your blood. While cholesterol is a necessity when it comes to building healthy cells, having high levels of cholesterol in the body increases your risk of the onset of heart diseases. Cholesterol level diagnosis is a necessity when it comes to determining the cholesterol levels in your blood. The only way to determine cholesterol levels in your blood is a blood test. High cholesterol in your blood may lead to the development of fatty deposits in your blood vessels. These deposits hamper the flow of blood through your arteries. Having a decreased flow of oxygen-rich blood increases your risk of heart disease and may lead to a stroke as well. We have covered the course of cholesterol level diagnosis and treatment. Cholesterol level diagnosis LDL cholesterol level diagnosis – Mentioned below is LDL cholesterol level diagnosis. Having cholesterol levels below 70 mg/dL is best suited for people suffering from diabetes or heart disease. Having cholesterol levels between 100 mg/dL and 129 mg/dL is near optimal if you are not suffering from heart disease, and high if you are.
High Blood Pressure – Symptoms and Treatment Options

High Blood Pressure – Symptoms and Treatment Options

Hypertension or high blood pressure is the condition where the amount of force exerted against the artery walls when the blood flows through them is higher than usual. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), one in every three persons in the country over the age of 20 has high blood pressure. Without the right treatment, blood pressure may lead to many health problems including heart failure, stroke, vision loss, and kidney disease. Common symptoms of high blood pressure Hypertension is known as the silent killer as it does not exhibit any symptoms. When the blood pressure reaches 180/110 mmHg, it is considered a medical emergency. Some of the common symptoms of high blood pressure are as follows: Headaches It is one of the most common symptoms of high blood pressure. It may get worse because of factors like stress, migraines or sinusitis. High blood pressure can affect the blood-brain barrier, exert excess pressure on the brain, and lead to blood leaks from the blood vessels. The leaked blood causes swelling, which exerts more pressure on the brain and leads to headaches. Dizzy spells It is another symptom of high blood pressure, but its cause may also be anxiety, the side effect of some medicines, low blood pressure, or pregnancy.
Hip Bursitis – Causes, Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment

Hip Bursitis – Causes, Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment

The hip joint is one of the strongest joints of the human body. It helps us to stand and walk and absorbs the impact when we jump. However, it is not immune to wear and tear. Hip bursitis or the inflammation of a bursa in the hip is one of the common causes of hip pain. Prescription medication is not always required for relief from hip bursitis. What is hip bursitis? Sacs filled with fluid that reduce the friction between tissues as they move are known as bursae. The major bursae are located at large joints such as the hips, shoulders, elbows, and knees. There are two bursae in the hip, the trochanteric bursa on the outer hip and the iliopsoas bursa on the inner side of the hip. Inflammation of the bursa is known as bursitis. This is not infectious but it may become infected. Causes of hip bursitis It becomes easier to seek relief for hip bursitis if one understands the factors causing it. The most common causes of hip bursitis are as follows: Injury to the hip Falling on the hip or banging the hip on a hard surface can lead to blood being filled in the bursa and inflammation of the bursa lining.
Enlarged Prostate – Symptoms and Natural Remedies

Enlarged Prostate – Symptoms and Natural Remedies

The prostate is the muscular gland in the reproductive system of men, which is very small in size. Almost 50% of men who are in their 60s face prostate enlargement, and this percentage reaches 90% for those who are 85 years old or above. The first sign of prostate enlargement is frequent urination at night. This condition of an enlarged prostate is also called BPH or Benign Prostate Hyperplasia. This condition takes place when the number of cells in the prostate gland begins to multiply, and the additional cells prevent the flow of urine by squeezing the urethra. Here are some of the causes and natural remedies for prostate enlargement. Causes of an enlarged prostate Enlarged prostate or BPH is a common medical condition for men who are aging, and men above 80 are the most likely to face some symptoms of BPH. However, the exact cause or the reason for BPH is still unknown. One of the factors for this could be the changes that occur in the generation of the male sex hormone with aging. Sometimes, prostate problems could be hereditary as well. Also, if there are any issues with the testicles, the person might also face the risk of developing BPH.
Fibromyalgia – Symptoms, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Fibromyalgia – Symptoms, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Treatment

There are a variety of factors leading to the development of the symptoms of fibromyalgia, and it is important to determine the underlying symptoms. If anyone experiences symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as the ones listed below, a timely diagnosis has to be made before treatment can be initiated. Fibromyalgia symptoms checklist The following are some of the common symptoms of fibromyalgia: Widespread pain A dull ache that has persisted over 3 months is not supposed to be concluded as a symptom of fibromyalgia. The pain must be present on both the sides of the body as well as below and above the waist. Fatigue Even after getting sufficient sleep, patients who are suffering from fibromyalgia have complaints of fatigue when they wake up. In most cases, patients with fibromyalgia symptoms could be suffering from other disorders such as sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome. Difficulties with cognition Patients with fibromyalgia suffer from “fibro log” which leads to an impairment of the ability to focus, problems in paying attention, as well as concentrating on tasks involving the mind. There are certain coexisting health issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, various types of headaches including a migraine, interstitial cystitis which is also known as a painful bladder, as well as disorders of the temporomandibular joint, so these can be considered symptoms of fibromyalgia as well.
Natural treatment options for erectile dysfunction

Natural treatment options for erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to have or maintain an erection that is adequate to engage in intercourse. It may give rise to feelings of inadequacy and shame but one need not worry too much as the condition can be treated. Occasional ED is not a cause for concern; if the condition is long-term and persists and one frequently has a problem keeping an erection, then he will need to treat the underlying disease responsible for the condition. Herein, we look at some natural treatment options that can help treat ED. Check testosterone levels Testosterone levels decline sharply after a man hits 50 according to experts. Every year following 40, testosterone levels are said to drop around 1.3% and this could be a cause for concern. One is advised to consult a doctor if he experiences moodiness, low sex drive, trouble making decisions, or inadequate erections as these are all signs of low testosterone levels. The doctor could talk about the situation and prescribe something to help. Kegel exercises Kegel exercises are repeatedly advised for preventing incontinence and solving other sexual problems like premature ejaculation. However, there is limited evidence to show its efficacy in dealing with ED. Kegel exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles in the pelvis repeatedly and it is said to have multiple benefits like allowing men to last longer and preventing incontinence as well.
5 tips to manage hemophilia

5 tips to manage hemophilia

Hemophilia is a blood clotting disorder that makes it difficult for the blood to clot, leading to excessive bleeding. It is a health condition that requires vigilance from the patients and their caregivers to prevent complications. But some steps can be undertaken to lead a quality life and manage the condition in time. We have discussed five lifestyle tips below: Keep up with medical care Avoiding any health complications or infections is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In order to do so, hemophilia patients should get themselves checked annually to assess their condition and get immediate professional care when needed. This also includes preventing blood-borne infections and getting vaccinated for the same. Stay active Hemophilia patients are advised to steer clear of activities that can put them at risk of getting injured. However, an inactive lifestyle is one of the major causes of weight gain, resulting in strain on the joints and internal bleeding. Indulging in light activities like cardio and stretching helps maintain weight and ensures the patient does not lose their footing after long periods of immobility. Protect children Children are active and adventurous by nature. Keeping them from falling, tumbling, or wounding themselves on the playground can be a challenging task.
8 ways to manage an overactive bladder

8 ways to manage an overactive bladder

An overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition in which there is a sudden and urgent need to urinate. Affecting both men and women, the disorder usually affects older individuals and disrupts social life, sleep, and work. There is a wide range of treatments for an overactive bladder. OAB can be managed through certain behavioral changes, medication, or a combination of both. Bladder training Instead of visiting the bathroom whenever there is an uncontrollable urge, urinate at a set time. It is called scheduled voiding. Start with a few minutes in the beginning and then increase the set time to an hour or more between bathroom visits. Pelvic muscle exercises Performing Kegel exercises daily can strengthen the muscles that help in controlling urination. It is best to consult a doctor or physical therapist to learn how to do Kegel the right way. Biofeedback In this method, electrical sensors are attached to the body, which determine actions it performs. The sensors send real-time feedback about some of the body’s most crucial functions, such as heart rate and blood pressure. It even monitors your exercises and other movements so that you can gauge what’s working best for you. Weight management If you are struggling with obesity, then losing some bodyweight may relieve certain overactive bladder symptoms.
5 common treatments for multiple sclerosis

5 common treatments for multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis or MS is a debilitating disorder where the body’s nervous system gets affected. Since the condition’s progression and symptoms differ from person to person, the treatments also differ. MS is not curable. However, the following treatments are geared towards slowing down the disease and alleviating the symptoms. Physical therapy Since multiple sclerosis causes mobility issues as the disease progresses, strengthening and stretching exercises are recommended. A physiotherapist demonstrates how to use various devices to assist in mobility and perform daily tasks. In addition, mobility aids are used during physical therapy. These are for managing weakness in the legs and gait problems associated with the disease. However, it is essential to note that multiple sclerosis patients also need enough rest besides physical activity. Muscle relaxants One of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis, especially during flare-ups, is muscle spasms or stiffness. The spasms are often painful and uncontrollable and usually occur in the legs. Doctors recommend muscle relaxants to relieve these symptoms and alleviate the pain and discomfort. Baclofen and tizanidine are among the most popular drugs used for this purpose. Plasma exchange In plasma exchange, the liquid portion of the patient’s blood (plasma) is removed and separated from the blood cells.
5 tips to avoid allergies for a good night’s rest

5 tips to avoid allergies for a good night’s rest

An allergy is a condition where a foreign substance (allergen) triggers an immune response, causing symptoms like sneezing and inflammation. Allergies can affect us at any time, even at night. And its symptoms can cause discomfort and lack of sleep. So here are five tips to avoid the problem and get a good night’s rest. Change bedding accessories regularly Our mattresses and pillows may contain dust mites and other allergens. So, by changing them regularly, we can decrease exposure to any allergy-causing agents. Also, using anti-allergy pillowcases or mattress covers can help strengthen the shield against allergens. Maintain distance from pets Besides dander, pets carry other allergens in their fur coats, such as mites and pollen, among others. If we share the bed with our pets at night, they can transfer the allergens onto the bedspreads and our nightclothes. Therefore, we must have pets sleep in another room if we’re prone to allergies. Reduce pollen levels Studies have shown that pollen levels in the atmosphere keep rising through the night. Further, these levels peak around dawn. So by keeping the windows shut and running an air conditioner with a top-notch air filter, we can significantly reduce the probability of contracting an allergy at night.
Nutrition and treatment options for presbyopia

Nutrition and treatment options for presbyopia

Presbyopia affects the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects. It is considered a natural aspect of aging as the gradual weakening of the body affects one’s sight too, usually after the age of 40. The iris, which is primarily responsible for focusing on objects, loses its flexibility irreversibly. But there are nutrition habits one can adopt, alongside treatment options for presbyopia, which can enhance one’s vision to improve the quality of life. Nutrition recommendations for presbyopia treatment Fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals enhance eye health and are recommended among natural foods and treatments for presbyopia. For example, carrots are rich in beta carotene, which helps lower the risk of degenerative problems affecting one or both eyes. Vitamin C is another important antioxidant that protects the eye and postpones the occurrence of any eye condition, including presbyopia. Broccoli, bell peppers, and brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamin C. One can also include oranges in their daily food intake to supplement the requirement naturally. Spinach is another all-round leafy green that is loaded with beta carotene, vitamin C, and essential antioxidants, in addition to lutein and zeaxanthin. Both antioxidants help absorb blue light emitted by most display devices, including the computer screen and phone.