Psoriasis – Symptoms, Types, and Tips for Managing the Condition

Psoriasis – Symptoms, Types, and Tips for Managing the Condition

Psoriasis is a skin disease that leads to rashes with itchy, scaly patches, most commonly seen on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. It is a common, chronic disease with no cure. The disease tends to come and go in cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months and then subsiding for a while. Common triggers for psoriasis include infections, cuts, and burns. To treat psoriasis, it is best to follow the doctor’s advice. Symptoms of Psoriasis Common signs and symptoms of psoriasis include: Patchy rashes (like scaling, dandruff, or major eruptions on the body) Purple or pink rashes with scales Small scaling spots Dry, cracked skin that may bleed Itching or burning Types of Psoriasis There are many types of psoriasis, which may differ in their signs and symptoms. The most common ones include: Plaque psoriasis: This is the most common type of psoriasis. Signs of plaque psoriasis include dry, itchy, raised skin patches covered with scales on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp. Nail psoriasis: Nail psoriasis can affect fingernails and toenails. It causes pitting, abnormal nail growth, and discoloration. More severe forms of the disease may cause the nail to crumble. Guttate psoriasis: Guttate psoriasis is commonly seen in young adults and children.
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4 Tips for Managing Narcolepsy and Its Symptoms

4 Tips for Managing Narcolepsy and Its Symptoms

Narcolepsy is a disorder that affects one’s sleep cycle. One of its most common symptoms is excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), which is triggered by the brain’s inability to regulate sleep and wakefulness. The condition affects at least one in every 2,000 people in the country. Nevertheless, one can deal with the disorder and its symptoms by making certain lifestyle changes. So, here are four tips for managing narcolepsy and its symptoms. Modify meal plans While a suitable meal plan for narcolepsy is still being studied, certain foods can help alleviate the symptoms. The condition may increase the risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and stroke, so one must choose foods that help manage heart health. Additionally, meals that consist of a variety of fruits and vegetables can be beneficial for sleep, as they contain higher amounts of melatonin, a chemical in the brain that promotes better sleep. People affected by lack of sleep may develop dysbiosis or an imbalance in the gut microbial composition. So, one should opt for probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and sauerkraut as they contain healthy gut bacteria known to improve gut health. Prebiotic foods like leafy greens, bananas, soybeans, and onions may also help improve the balance of the microorganisms in the gut.
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Simple Tips to Help Prevent Age-related Macular Degeneration

Simple Tips to Help Prevent Age-related Macular Degeneration

Our eyes have two types of vision: central and peripheral. Central vision helps a person see what’s directly ahead. What ensures a clear and sharp central vision is an area of the retina (the lining in the back of an eye) called the macula. Macular degeneration is a condition that hampers one’s central vision due to abnormalities in the macula. Since it usually develops when a person ages, it’s commonly called age-related macular degeneration (AMD). What are the signs and causes of age-related macular degeneration? Before discussing the prevention of age-related macular degeneration, let us take a quick look at its signs and causes. Typically, this eye disease causes blurriness while reading, driving, or watching TV. Patients may also need brighter light when reading or doing close-up work as they find it increasingly difficult to adapt to low-light or dimly-lit areas. Further, individuals may notice black spots and visual distortions (straight lines appearing wavy). These signs make diagnosing the problem easier for an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Age-related macular degeneration is among the leading causes of poor vision in the country and is common among those aged 50 and above. Its exact cause is unknown, but the chances are higher in individuals who have a family history of the disorder, follow an unhealthy lifestyle, have heart disease or high blood pressure, and live in places exposed to excessive ultraviolet light.
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Atopic Dermatitis – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

Atopic Dermatitis – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

When the skin starts to itch and leave red scars on the face, legs, and arms, one has atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema. While the exact cause of this skin condition is unknown, one of the contributing factors may be the overproduction of cells in the immune system. Avoiding triggers and lifestyle changes may help ease the discomfort. Here are a few essential aspects to know about atopic dermatitis. Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis Various internal and physical factors can trigger a flare-up of atopic dermatitis, resulting in an itching sensation that does not seem to relent. Scratching may temporarily relieve discomfort but causes more complications, such as inflammation and skin infections. The primary symptom of this condition is dry and itchy skin that turns red, but several other concerning signs may show up, including Dry and scaly skin Rashes on the face and neck Rashes that release fluid Darkening of the skin around the eyes Cracked skin that bleeds Swollen discolored skin Triggers of Atopic Dermatitis Inflammation resulting from a misdirected immune system reaction is often seen in those with atopic dermatitis. Such a condition also creates an altered barrier that makes the skin highly susceptible to dryness and infection.
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9 Supplements That Help in Managing Eczema

9 Supplements That Help in Managing Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common inflammatory skin disorder that makes the skin become dry, itchy, flushed, rough, red, cracked, or bumpy. Eczema flares can be brought on by allergies, a hyperactive immune system, irritants, harsh weather, hormonal imbalances, stress, or mental disorders. While its severity varies from person to person, some supplements can be safe and effective additions to overall eczema health care and help control the flare-ups. Top supplements Deficiencies of essential nutrients play a major role in worsening one’s eczema symptoms. Based on the doctor’s advice, one can include the following supplements in addition to food in one’s daily nutritional regimen to help manage eczema: Vitamin D One’s skin produces vitamin D when exposed to the sun. Several foods naturally contain vitamin D, and it is also widely available as a supplement. Certain studies have shown a direct correlation between vitamin D and eczema. One evaluation found that it helped lower the severity of eczema symptoms, while another study indicated a link between lower vitamin D levels with increased eczema severity in children. Around two-thirds of the investigations suggested that taking vitamin D supplements is beneficial for treating inflammation. Vitamin E Vitamin E is an essential micronutrient that features in many skin care products.
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12 Easy Natural Remedies to Relieve Eczema Symptoms

12 Easy Natural Remedies to Relieve Eczema Symptoms

Eczema affects around 31.6 million people in the country. It causes inflamed, itchy, cracked, or rough skin. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis, most commonly seen in children. Given its wide prevalence, numerous natural remedies have recently been popularized to manage the disorder at home. Although these have been effective for some, it is best to speak to a licensed dermatologist before adding them to your routine. Aloe vera gel Aloe vera gel derived from the aloe vera plant is great for soothing eczema symptoms. The gel has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and helps boost the immune system, improving wound healing. Aloe gel can be purchased online or in stores. Alternatively, you can grow the aloe plant in your garden and extract the gel from its leaves; it is an eco-friendly option. When purchasing the gel, look for products with few added ingredients. Added colors, preservatives, and fragrances can dry the skin and worsen eczema. Before applying on irritated skin, do a patch test to check for skin sensitivity. Aloe vera is mostly safe and effective for children and adults alike. Apple cider vinegar According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), small amounts of apple cider vinegar can help with eczema.
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6 Tips for Finding the Right Soap When Dealing With Eczema

6 Tips for Finding the Right Soap When Dealing With Eczema

Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a skin condition triggered by defects in the skin barrier. This chronic condition can lead to skin inflammation and cause red, dry, and itchy skin. Atopic dermatitis also makes the skin more sensitive to certain compounds present in products that one uses regularly, including soaps. So to avoid worsening the symptoms and inflammation, one must follow a few tips for finding the right soaps when affected by eczema. Check for sodium lauryl sulfate Most people with eczema may see flare-ups in their symptoms when they use certain soaps. Flare-ups may occur due to certain chemicals in soaps, like sodium lauryl sulfate. The chemical is known to remove the natural oils from the skin and make it feel tight or dry. Soaps with this ingredient can trigger irritation and allergic reactions. So one should go for soaps free of sulfates, especially if they are susceptible to symptoms of eczema. Test new soaps While several soap manufacturers claim their products are free of chemicals, they can contain certain ingredients that may lead to skin irritation. The best way to rule out any complications is by performing a “patch test” to check for allergic reactions. One can do this by taking a small amount of the product and applying it to their wrist or crook of the elbow.
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Everything One Needs to Know About Eczema

Everything One Needs to Know About Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition involving persistent itchiness and roughness, typically culminating in skin flakiness and blisters. According to research data, about 10% of the population in the country is affected by eczema. While eczema commonly affects infants and children, it is also prevalent among adults, and the symptoms vary based on age and medical history. This article describes eczema in detail, elaborating on its causes, symptoms, common interventions, and general lifestyle tips. What causes eczema? Hereditary factors Heredity significantly contributes to the development of eczema. According to a 2015 study, individuals with family histories of eczema were 75% likely to inherit the condition. Moreover, studies have demonstrated that mutations in CARD11, the gene governing the healthy functioning of the lymphocytes, are primarily responsible for eczema. Cold climatic conditions Individuals living in colder climates and less humidity are more likely to experience skin dryness, increasing their susceptibility to eczema. External irritants Some external irritants like detergents, soaps, fabrics with rough textures, etc., can affect the skin and increase the likelihood of developing eczema flare-ups. Long baths and excessive exposure to water Long showers and staying in water bodies like swimming pools for long hours can also irritate the skin, particularly skin types that are already sensitive, contributing to eczema.
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9 Natural Ways to Relieve Migraines

9 Natural Ways to Relieve Migraines

If you frequently experience migraines, you are not alone, as migraine-based headaches affect almost 40 million people in the country. While there is no permanent cure for the condition, several natural remedies can help people effectively manage episodes of migraine. These solutions include specific home remedies, better food choices, and certain lifestyle changes that can reduce the frequency of migraine-induced headaches and nausea. Here are some simple ways to relieve migraines: Adding magnesium-rich foods Magnesium-rich food is one of the most effective and inexpensive migraine remedies. Magnesium is a key ingredient in calming down anxiety, increasing energy levels, and relieving digestive issues that often trigger migraine headaches. Although magnesium supplements are effective on their own, naturally-occurring magnesium in foods is recommended for daily consumption. Rich sources include almonds, black beans, lentils, bananas, avocados, bananas, mackerel, tuna, Pollock fish, low-fat yogurt, kefir, pumpkin seeds, squash seeds, and dark chocolate. Dark leafy greens, like chard and spinach, along with quinoa and whole grains, are also among the best foods to help reduce the frequency of episodes. One cup of whole grains contains between 38 to 40 percent of the recommended daily magnesium quantity needed for migraine relief. Dimming the lights People with migraine generally experience heightened sensitivity to light, known as photophobia.
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9 Natural Remedies for Arthritis Management

9 Natural Remedies for Arthritis Management

Arthritis is a painful condition that affects a person’s joints. Osteoarthritis, one of its common forms, is caused when the cartilage between the bones wears off and the bones start rubbing against each other. The ailment is so painful that it can impact one’s daily routine and ability to function. But thankfully, treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms. Patients can also use many natural remedies to find relief. Physical therapy Physical therapy and muscle-strengthening activities benefit people with arthritis and other joint disorders. It might not be necessary in every case, but having a professional overlook movement practice can significantly help. Patients who find it hard to reach a therapy clinic can have a therapist visit them at home. Regular therapy can help individuals get in and out of their chairs and improve their quality of life. However, it is essential to be gentle during the sessions, especially in the case of osteoarthritis. Aloe vera Aloe vera is a well-known anti-inflammatory plant used as a natural remedy for many ailments for centuries. Since arthritis is an inflammatory condition, this plant is highly beneficial for managing pain and specific other symptoms. Patients can apply aloe vera gel or use oral chewables.
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