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Natural Remedies and Foods That Help Relieve Sinus Congestion

A sinus infection occurs when fluid builds up in the sinus cavities, clogging them and making breathing difficult. The sinus cavity has a mucus layer that collects dust and germs. This lining swells due to a viral infection or a cold, forcing mucus into the sinuses and causing infection. Viruses and colds are the most common causes of congestion. Here are some of the most effective home remedies for sinus congestion and breathing issues.

Adequate hydration
Staying hydrated can help drainage by diluting mucous secretions from the irritated membrane. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids may help to relieve nasal congestion symptoms. Avoid dehydrating substances such as caffeine. Instead, one can consume broth soups, ice cubes, tea, water-based vegetables, and fruits such as watermelon and cucumber.

Inhaling steam
Hot shower steam can be inhaled to relieve sinus pressure and discomfort. It might help the mucous membranes retain moisture. This is particularly crucial during the winter or other cooler seasons. This will help in the removal of any internal nasal blockages. This can also be accomplished by taking a hot shower or using a humidifier.

Using Eucalyptus oil
This oil clears congestion in the nose. It kills the germs responsible for sinus infections in the nasal canal and surrounding areas. This oil can be placed beside the bed on tissue paper or dissolved in hot water and used to generate steam. Applying hot water and eucalyptus oil directly to the skin can result in burns. Menthol-based oils do not clear congestion but can help with breathing issues.

Nasal irrigation
Nasal irrigation (rinsing out nasal passages with a device such as a neti pot) can help remove heavy mucus, irritants, allergies, and viruses. Only sterile or distilled water should be used to fill the neti pot. Begin by filling the pot halfway with saline solution (warm, sterile water with salt). Then, lean over the sink, tilt your head to the side, and pour the liquid into your upper nose through your lower nostril. Repeat on the opposite side.

Try natural decongestant
According to some studies, vitamin C can lessen the severity of symptoms and shorten the duration of a cold. Warm herbal teas allow for the inhalation of steam while also removing mucus. During a sinusitis episode, teas like holy basil, peppermint, chamomile, ginger, and licorice are beneficial to the sinuses and throat.

Elevation
Lying flat can disrupt the sleep cycle, increase sinus pressure, and cause mucus accumulation in the nasal passages. Try to raise your head with pillows at night to keep it above your heart. This sleeping position can help you breathe more comfortably and reduce sinus congestion.

Exercise
Yoga and physical activity both reduce sinus pressure. Exercise can improve blood flow and momentarily relieve congestion, easing breathing. Although it can be painful to exercise while sick, doing so can speed up your recovery.

Avoid dairy products
One of the most common foods to cause nasal congestion is dairy products. People prone to sinus infections should avoid dairy, as it can thicken mucus and promote the growth of bacteria. This food change can significantly reduce congestion.

Warm compress
Sinusitis can cause headaches as well as nose and ear irritation. Applying a warm compress to the brow and nose may help. This can help relieve nasal irritation and pressure, as well as discomfort. Heat a hot compress in the microwave or place a warm washcloth or dish towel over the nose, cheeks, and forehead. Try it for 20 minutes, then repeat as necessary.

Oil pulling
Oil pulling, particularly with coconut oil, is an excellent method for killing germs in the throat and mouth while alleviating sinus discomfort. Swish a teaspoon for five to ten minutes before spitting it out. It cleanses the body of bacteria, toxins, and stress, resulting in increased energy and overall wellness.

Foods to eat
Including certain foods in your meal plan can help you manage your symptoms. For example, anti-inflammatory foods high in antioxidants can help your body eliminate excess mucus and prevent new mucus formation. Here are some foods that can help reduce sinus-related congestion.

Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation by relaxing blood vessels. Both nutrients can help with sinus swelling, mucus drainage, and congestion relief caused by allergies. The seeds can be used as a garnish on salads or baked into bread.

Pineapple
This tropical fruit is high in vitamin C as well as bromelain. Bromelain is a well-known enzyme for its ability to help break up excess sinus mucus and reduce mucus production, which is frequently caused by allergies. This can be consumed in the form of pineapple juice, fruit, or salads.

Grapefruit
Although grapefruit is best known for its high salicylic acid content, it also thins the mucus and reduces allergic-related inflammation. Salicylic acid’s high PH levels help break mucus proteins and have anti-inflammatory properties. Combining grapefruit with sweeter pineapple juice or fruit is an excellent option because it is a very tangy fruit.

Onions
Onions are high in quercetin, a flavonoid that improves respiratory function by decreasing inflammation and acting as a natural antihistamine to combat allergic reactions. Raw onions can be finely sliced for salads or chopped in roasts and stews.

Ginger
Ginger root has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It can be sautéed with sliced onion, chopped vegetables, and meat to make a nutritious dinner that can help reduce allergy-related inflammation. As an alternative, drink hot ginger tea while inhaling steam to help thin mucus.

Honey
Honey’s anti-inflammatory properties aid in the relief of pain and swelling. Honey can be eaten by spreading it on toast, sweetening the tea with it, or sprinkling it on oatmeal for breakfast.

Spicy food
Eating spicy foods helps in the natural expansion of nasal airways and the flow of mucus. It also produces mucus, which causes a runny nose but quickly relieves congestion and blockage.

Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cellâs ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cellâs ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the bodyâs reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

10 Healthy and Flavorful Snack Ideas

Reaching for packaged chips and cookies was our go-to move when the mid-morning hunger pangs hit us. Now, we know there is nothing wrong with eating some packaged foods we like every once in a while. But it soon turned into a habit. That is when we looked into healthy snacking options. And with all the differences we see in ourselves, we are here to vouch for the benefits of choosing the right snacks. 10 healthy snack ideas everyone will relish Hummus Hummus is enriched with protein and healthy fats and makes a great addition to the healthy snacking list. This velvety dip can be used as a spread on toasts, tortillas, shawarmas, and wraps. It can also be used as a dip for your vegetable sticks! If you get bored of basic hummus, you can try having the fiber-loaded Baba Ganoush. It is another Mediterranean recipe made of tahini and roasted eggplant and is just as delicious. Tzatziki Unflavored Greek yogurt is a tasty, nutritious, and gut-friendly snack option that we can never get tired of. However, if you want to add some dimension to your plain bowl of yogurt instead of reaching for flavored ones, try turning it into tzatziki. This protein-rich snack is made using grated cucumber and Greek yogurt as its base. Some chopped dill leaves, salt, olive oil, and chili powder enhance its flavors and provide you with the much-needed protein punch. Homemade peanut butter Peanut butter has been bad-mouthed for a while now due to the additional ingredients and preservatives that food companies add. To take back control and make your peanut butter healthy again, it's time you make your own at home. All you have to do is roast some unsalted peanuts till they are light golden brown and then churn them in your food processor till they have achieved your desirable buttery consistency. If you want, you can add some salt to enhance its flavor. Alternatively, you can also add ingredients like honey and cocoa powder for flavor. Guacamole Having a bowl of guacamole tucked away in the fridge is the best way to avoid any unhealthy snacking. Spread it on a slice of toasted bread, dip your veggie sticks in it, or enjoy it all by itself. There is no wrong or right way to use your guac. You can even use your avocado to make a smoothie out of it. Smoothie bowls Smoothie bowls are our go-to snacking option. Packed with nutrients and flavors, this snack idea is a perfect pick-me-up when the afternoon slump is ready to attack. Since these smoothie bowls often contain vegetable servings, it is a great option for kids and adults who always pick out vegetables from their plates. You have options like berry smoothie, avocado smoothie, and coffee smoothie. Some people even like to dump a scoop of protein into their smoothie bowl to make a balanced meal. Popcorn We all know how comforting and satisfying a bowl of popcorn can be. These are easy and quick to put together and can be flavored according to your taste preference. If you want to keep things simple, just add some salt and butter. If cheesy popcorn is your preferred movie snack, try adding in some nutritional yeast alongside the salt and butter. It will give you the taste you are looking for without the unnecessary artificial flavoring. Note that it is better to make the popcorn by popping corn kernels in a pressure cooker rather than buying instant packets. Roasted seeds If snacking equates to convenient food to you, then the roasted seed is a great option to add to your list. Packed with healthy fats and nutrients, it is one of the healthiest choices you can make for yourself. Next time you make a butternut squash recipe or pumpkin recipe, save the seeds and roast them in the oven. Donât forget to toss them in some salt and olive oil beforehand! After they are done, you can use different herbs and spices to flavor them and store them in small jars. You can even tuck one away at your work desk when the munchies hit you. Eggs Eggs are one of the most versatile foods you will be able to find in your refrigerator. Not only can you have it for any meal of the day, you can also cook it multiple ways to suit the rest of your meal. Some of the easiest and healthiest snacking options include hardboiled eggs, scrambled eggs, or sunny side-up eggs. That said, if you want to try a more wholesome meal try adding chopped veggies to your omelet. Shakshouka is another great option if you are looking to try a new egg recipe. Its poached eggs on a bed of tomato and bell pepper sauce with herbs, spices, and a handful of other vegetables. Overnight oats This has become a breakfast staple for many but can really be had at any time of the day. You can use the milk of your choice to soak the oats. After that, you can flavor it with your choicest toppings. Want it to taste like a chocolate cake? Use some choco chips, maple syrup, and chopped nuts. In the mood for PB&J? Top off your bowl with some peanut butter and jam, and if you really want to take the healthier route, add a spoonful of protein to increase its satiety value. Chia seed pudding If you want to go healthier than an overnight oats bowl for your snacking option, try out a chia seed pudding. A delicious healthy gooey dessert in a bowl; you can dress your pudding with the fruits and toppings of your choice. If you want to add some crunch to the thick and creamy texture, drop in some chopped nuts or seeds of your choice. Alternatively, you can also add some chocolate or nut butter spread to make it taste like a real treat.

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Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Braces are the go-to option most people choose for straightening teeth and jaws. This treatment provides aesthetic benefits, helps improve oral health, and relieves pressure from the joints. Traditionally, the base material used to be metal, but the latest developments in dental technology have given us a new option. This article gives you in-depth details about what makes invisible braces so popular, how much these products cost, and the best brands. What are invisible braces? Invisible braces, commonly known as clear aligners, are transparent dental trays that are used to correct your bite. These trays are usually worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. As the teeth shift, you have to make a new invisible tray every one or two weeks. Invisible braces are quite similar to retainers, but the former is used the slowly align your teeth while the latter keeps your teeth in place. Benefits The biggest benefit of invisible braces that’s quite evident at first sight is the fact that they are transparent. Factors like the lack of wires, bands, and brackets make these braces suitable for people of all ages, especially adults. Unlike the metal and ceramic counterparts, these braces can be removed at any time, which makes them easy to clean as well.

Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Those suffering from an overactive bladder experience an increased urge to urinate. Such an uncontrollable need significantly compromises one’s quality of life. Issues that arise from this condition may lead the patient to compromise or rearrange their daily routine around their diagnosis. One may even suffer from bladder-related symptoms due to complications from other diseases like diabetes. This article highlights the significant causes as well as management techniques of an overactive bladder in patients: Causes Overactive bladder can result from various reasons such as unhealthy lifestyle choices, age, and underlying health conditions. Here are some of the common causes that lead to the development of this urological condition: Poor pelvic muscle strength Pelvic muscles provide the lower abdomen with the necessary support. As a person ages, their muscles tend to lose strength. Weak muscles are, thus, a common causative factor that leads to the development of an overactive bladder. Factors like pregnancy and childbirth are also known to weaken the pelvic floor muscles. Nerve damage This cause of an overactive bladder is quite common as the nerves can sustain damage from conditions like multiple sclerosis and herniated discs. This damage affects the signal transfer among the brain and other body parts, including the bladder.

Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

A medical alert system consists of life-saving devices that instantly connect the user with emergency help with the push of a button. Such equipment helps seniors live independently and offers peace of mind to their loved ones and caregivers. A good-quality life alert system for seniors has several useful medical features like fall detection, GPS tracking, and professional monitoring. In this article, we’ve listed the best medical alert systems for seniors out there today. Medical Guardian Founded in 2005, Medical Guardian is known for designing best-in-class life alert devices and systems. Depending on the lifestyle of a senior individual, they can choose between different types of On-The-Go and In-House systems. Almost every Medical Guardian life alert system for seniors features its state-of-the-art fall detection technology, along with other essential features like GPS location tracking, extra neck/wrist buttons, and water resistance. This company’s medical alert products have the longest battery life (up to 168 hours) and furthest signal range (up to 1300 feet) compared to any other product on the market. Medical Guardian also has a highly reliable monitoring center that operates 24/7. Bay Alarm Medical With over 70 years of experience in life alert devices, Bay Alarm Medical is one of the most trusted providers in the country.

Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

The ability of dentures or implants to mimic natural teeth is so impressive that it has changed millions of lives worldwide. These prosthetics are used when natural teeth have significant issues. With a little maintenance, they can be an efficient and long-lasting solution. So, if you are planning to get them yourself, the following article can help you know the factors to consider and the prices of dental implants and dentures. How do dental implants work? Before discussing dental implant prices, it is essential to understand how they work. Dental implants consist of three different pieces that serve distinct functions, as given below: Implant post Also known as the fixture, this small, cylindrical screw acts as an artificial root for the tooth. Abutment This piece connects the implant post and the crown. There are various types of abutments depending on the prosthetic type requiring support. Crown The final piece of the entire prosthetic, the crown rests on the top of the abutment. It can be made from porcelain, metal, resin, or ceramics. Porcelain or ceramic crowns look the most natural. Costs of dental implants Depending on one’s needs, there are four types of dental implants. Given below are average costs for the same:

Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

If your teeth alignment has always made you conscious of your smile, you need to address the issue. Crowded or crooked teeth and crossbites can majorly affect your facial profile and the way you chew your food. The insecurity and complications of a crossbite only grow with age. If you’re contemplating ways to align your teeth, and you want to achieve that without braces, you’ve come to the right place. This article discusses teeth alignment options that are possible without prominent braces. Invisalign It is one of the most popular ways of teeth alignment without braces. The treatment involves using a set of clear retainer trays made to fit the moving teeth. You will be given a set of new retainer trays every two weeks to make the desired changes. They can be removed when eating, but one needs to ensure they have them on for at least 22 hours in a day. The treatment tenure depends on the severity of the case and takes approximately around 12 to 24 months to align teeth. Advantages They are invisible, so you won’t have to avoid social gatherings or feel awkward They are removable, which makes cleaning the trays and teeth easy These can be removed when having a meal, which means fewer restrictions when eating Disadvantages Invisalign is a more expensive option The flexibility of removing trays can elongate the treatment if not worn for prescribed hours Some may develop a lisp or speak awkwardly with trays Inman Aligner This is another efficient way of teeth alignment without braces.

Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a severe lung disease that occurs when the lung tissue is damaged and scarred. The scarring leads to thickened, stiff tissues and makes it difficult for the lungs to work efficiently. Several factors may cause pulmonary fibrosis. However, doctors cannot assess what triggers the condition. While the damage to the lungs is irreversible, there are several remedies that can help. So here are the signs of pulmonary fibrosis and some remedies. The signs of pulmonary fibrosis Before getting into the remedies of the condition, let’s learn about the signs of pulmonary fibrosis. Doing so can ensure proper diagnoses and care at the earliest. The first sign of pulmonary fibrosis is getting out of breath. The symptom occurs when the person exerts themselves through physical exercise. When the condition progresses, the affected individual may find it hard to breathe even with little to no physical activity. Older people who experience shortness of breath often confuse the condition as a sign of aging, failing to diagnose the disease early. Other signs of pulmonary fibrosis include: A dry cough. The sudden loss of weight. Fatigue. Pain in the muscles and joints. Clubbing, a condition that results in the widening and rounding at the tips of the fingers or toes.

Natural Remedies and Foods That Help Relieve Sinus Congestion

Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

10 Healthy and Flavorful Snack Ideas

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