Fatty liver disease – Warning signs and management

Fatty liver disease – Warning signs and management

As the name suggests, fatty liver is a health condition caused by excess fat deposition on the liver. In most cases, people show no symptoms of the condition or face any health issues. However, it can get severe once the disease progresses, necessitating an intervention. But since the liver is an organ with self-healing abilities, changing our lifestyle habits and food choices can play a huge role in recovering from such conditions. Fatty liver diseases In a healthy liver, the amount of fat surrounding it is estimated to be 5 to 10% of the liver’s weight. This fat protects the liver against injuries and shock. However, when extra fat accumulates in the liver, it might impact its normal functioning, but it is observed in only a few fatty liver patients. The progression of the condition occurs in four stages: Simple fatty liver In this stage, there is a build-up of fat storage in the liver. If the condition does not progress, the initial stages of fatty liver disease are not harmful. Steatohepatitis The added fat storage is also accompanied by liver inflammation at this stage. This condition is a bit more severe than the simple fatty liver. Fibrosis With further progression of the disease, the continued inflammation of the liver eventually leads to scarring.
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Essential Foods to Eat and Avoid for Managing Myeloma

Essential Foods to Eat and Avoid for Managing Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that mainly affects the plasma cells in the body. Plasma cells are a crucial part of the immune system that help ward off infections by producing antibodies. These antibodies identify and attack infection-causing germs, bacteria, and viruses. Myeloma causes an uncontrolled mutation of the plasma cells. There is no cure for the condition, but it is possible to manage symptoms and improve the outlook. Foods rich in fiber One of the significant side effects of multiple myeloma symptoms is constipation. The inability to pass regular bowels is triggered during chemotherapy treatment for cancer. Hence, it becomes necessary to include more foods rich in soluble fibers. Soluble fibers are digested easily, help loosen bowel movements, and also lower the risk of severe pain and uneasiness caused by constipation. Apples, berries, prunes, figs, raisins, peas, carrots, celery, artichokes, beans, broccoli, oatmeal, and assorted whole grains are rich in soluble fibers. It is also advisable to increase water consumption as staying hydrated helps break down bowels and flush out toxins from the body. These changes boost immunity and help speed up recovery. Foods rich in antioxidants Cancer causes healthy cells to break down once the mutation spreads, resulting in oxidative stress.
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Top 8 Clear Braces to Consider

Top 8 Clear Braces to Consider

Braces and aligners are often used by teenagers who wish to align their teeth and have the perfect smile. But their usage does not have to stop there. Adults can also use braces. Increasingly, adults have begun turning to clear braces as an alternative to metal ones to manage orthodontic issues, such as correcting crooked teeth. Keeping this in mind, we have listed some of the best options for clear braces to try today. Best clear braces to consider There are different types of braces to choose from. But one option that has risen to the top is clear braces. They are comfortable, affordable, and also incredibly convenient to wear. They help manage uncorrected misalignment and specific other dental issues without being noticeable. Read on to learn more about the best clear braces, their features, and prices: Byte Byte is one of the most popular clear aligner options out there that offers its customers a plethora of perks. Its best features include a free treatment guarantee, a free first set of retainers, complimentary teeth whitening, and daytime and nighttime-only options. Moreover, the braces are made of a BPA-free, medical-grade polymer film, testifying its quality. The product can cost $1,895 to $2,295, depending on the type and comfort level.
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Ulcerative Colitis – Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Ulcerative Colitis – Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Ulcerative colitis is a condition in which the large intestine becomes inflamed and develops small open sores called ulcers. This condition affects the innermost lining of the tract, which is called the colon and rectum, and the symptoms build up gradually over time. There is, unfortunately, no cure. However, several management options can make it easier to live with the disease if a disciplined lifestyle is followed. Let’s understand the illness and its management options. Causes and risk factors The cause remains unknown to researchers. However, certain risk factors can increase the risk of this disease. This includes the age at which a young person below 30 may develop the disease. However, it can even affect those beyond 60 years of age. It has been studied that certain sections of the population, like those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, may be at higher risk than anyone with a family history of the disease. Symptoms The condition grows slowly and gradually, only showing symptoms much later, so it is important to get regular checkups done to avoid a complicated diagnosis. Here are some symptoms to look out for: Rectal pain Bleeding while passing the stool Unexpected loss of body mass Feeling feverish Fatigue Diarrhea with blood or pus Urgent bowel movement Inability to pass stool despite the urgency Pain in the abdomen and cramping Failure to grow in children The symptoms may differ depending on how mild or severe the inflammation is.
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Procedure and Benefits of Invisible Aligners

Procedure and Benefits of Invisible Aligners

While one can find beautiful smiles all around them, perfectly-aligned teeth form the basis of a perfect smile. Most people think of teeth alignment in terms of metal and wire braces. However, for a flawless smile, one does not need to feel discomfort associated with braces. For those who want to straighten their teeth without significantly changing their appearance, eating habits, or oral hygiene practices, invisible aligners are the perfect solution. What are invisible aligners? As the name implies, invisible aligners are transparent orthodontic devices, generally made of flexible plastic, that straighten one’s teeth. In the past, such aligners could not be used to address orthodontic issues, but with advancements in technology, dental experts suggest clear aligners serve many purposes. The tool not only enables a perfect smile, but it can also help users avoid certain oral and cosmetic issues stemming from misaligned teeth. One such issue faced by many people is known as malocclusion—a series of issues, including teeth gaps, crooked teeth, underbite, overbite, and crowded teeth. Malocclusion is the misalignment of one’s upper and lower teeth. Clear aligners help deal with this condition by gently repositioning the upper and lower teeth gradually over a series of iterations. So, invisible braces or aligners can improve not only teeth alignment but also the shape of cheeks, jaw, and other areas adversely affected by misaligned teeth.
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9 Benefits of Clear Teeth Aligners for Seniors

9 Benefits of Clear Teeth Aligners for Seniors

Braces for correcting misaligned teeth have been used for centuries. But traditional braces can be cumbersome, painful, and a hassle for children and seniors. Fortunately, advances in dental care have paved the way for orthodontists to suggest clear aligners as a convenient option for older adults and seniors. These aligners are subtle and provide the proper comfort and look for a grown adult. Let’s look at some benefits clear teeth aligners provide: Maintains oral hygiene Aligners fix crooked teeth and current the unnatural crowding of molars on the upper and lower jaw that pose many problems with advancing age. For instance, food particles can lodge into these crevices, making them a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause a dental or gum infection. Overcrowded teeth also make brushing, flossing, and maintaining general oral hygiene cumbersome. Seniors will be forced to spend more time and energy just getting their morning routine done correctly. Crooked teeth can also cause pain, so it is better to consider teeth aligners to correct the bite. Barely visible aligners One of the most significant benefits of using clear aligners over traditional braces is their ability to be hidden in plain sight. These braces are designed to perfectly fit the upper and lower jaw without affecting the range of motion and jaw movement.
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Ankylosing Spondylitis – Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Ankylosing Spondylitis – Causes, Symptoms, and Management

From facilitating erect posture to ensuring body structure, the spine performs numerous functions and is an indispensable part of the human body. Thus, health issues concerning the spine and back, including ankylosing spondylitis, can be debilitating, requiring early diagnosis, timely treatment, and adequate care. This article provides a detailed insight into ankylosing spondylitis, its causes and symptoms, treatment options, and some lifestyle tips to help patients cope better with the condition. What is ankylosing spondylitis? Belonging to a group of diseases classified as spondyloarthropathies, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a health condition wherein the vertebral bones fuse over time, causing severe pain and stiffness. Such pain is particularly prevalent in the lower back, buttocks, and hips. It hampers mobility considerably and is classified as a form of arthritis. Specifically, AS is the advanced stage of sacroiliitis, characterized by inflammation of the sacroiliac joints between the spinal base and the pelvis. Studies reveal that 13 in 1,000 people in the country are diagnosed with this disease. Risk factors for ankylosing spondylitis Although the exact cause of AS is unknown, some risk factors can contribute to the onset of this condition: Genetic factors Individuals with a gene known as HLA-B27, proteins classified as antigens, are at a higher risk of acquiring AS than others.
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Signs and Remedies for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Signs and Remedies for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects one’s spine. The symptoms of the disease usually begin in adolescence or early adulthood and can affect one’s flexibility and mobility, leading to stiffness, pain, and a hunched posture. If the disease affects the ribs, one may have difficulty breathing. Although there is no known cure, various treatments and ways can help manage the symptoms and slow down its progress. What is ankylosing spondylitis? Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that typically begins in the area where the spine meets the pelvis. It can cause some of the bones in the spine to fuse. This fusing is a process where small bones of the spine interlock together and affect the flexibility of one’s back, AS is one of six illnesses in the spondylitis family that have some of the same symptoms. 12 signs of ankylosing spondylitis Back pain Since AS primarily causes inflammation in one’s joints of the vertebrae, it leads to dull pain in the back. The pain can also be felt in one’s buttocks, thighs, and can turn sharp or unbearable if left untreated. The pain may initially alternate between one’s left and right side, upper spine, neck, and even chest, eventually affecting one’s overall movement.
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Parkinson’s – Symptoms, Causes, and Management

Parkinson’s – Symptoms, Causes, and Management

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disease that affects the nervous system and other parts of the body controlled by nerves. The symptoms develop over a period of time and gradually grow in severity. Tremors are one of the most common symptoms of the condition, and one can also experience stiffness and slowing of movement. While the condition does not of a permanent cure, symptoms of Parkinson’s can be managed through treatment and remedies. Symptoms Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, i.e., its symptoms develop gradually over time. It often starts with a slight tremor in one hand. Some may also notice early signs such as stiffness in the body. Over time these symptoms can get increasingly severe, affecting one’s day-to-day activities. Some of the other symptoms of this condition are: Changes in movement Tremors Issues with coordination and maintaining balance, leading to one frequently falling over or dropping things Loss of sense of smell Changes in facial expressions brought on by changes in nerves responsible for facial muscles Change in gait, making one lean slightly forward while walking Changes in voice, like a softer voice or voice tremor Difficulty in writing leading to cramped or smaller handwriting Issues with sleep due to restless leg syndrome and other sleep disorders Rapid eye movement sleep disorder While the condition affects people in different ways, there are a few common symptoms reported by many patients.
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Kidney Cancer- Signs, Diagnosis, and Management

Kidney Cancer- Signs, Diagnosis, and Management

The kidneys are two fist-sized, bean-shaped organs located behind the abdominal organs on either side of the spine. A tumor forms over time due to abnormal cell growth in the tissue, which results in kidney cancer. Any cancer can develop due to cell changes that cause uncontrolled cell growth. This type of cancer most frequently affects people between the ages of 65 and 74. The following information explains the symptoms, causes, and treatments of kidney cancer. Symptoms of kidney cancer The symptoms of this illness do not become apparent until the condition has advanced to a severe stage. It usually turns up as an unusual kidney mass growth during other medical examinations. Other cancer-related signs and symptoms include: Blood in the urine A bulge or strange development around the kidneys Fatigue Decreased appetite Feeling ill and low on energy Sudden alteration of body mass Bone pain Anemia Elevated calcium levels Elevated blood pressure Mild fever Types of kidney cancer The four primary kinds of kidney cancer are as follows: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) This type of kidney cancer is most common in adults, accounting for 85% of cases. It usually starts as a single tumor in one kidney but can spread to the other.
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