Top Over the Counter Creams to Deal With Arthritis

Top Over the Counter Creams to Deal With Arthritis

52.5 million people are estimated to be impacted by arthritis. It is a condition that leaves patients dealing with chronic and debilitating pain. There are different types of over-the-counter products and remedies available that can be used to manage the symptoms. However, seeking proper treatment is paramount to ensure the condition does not affect the patient’s quality of life. Various treatment options, over-the-counter creams, and home remedies can be used to manage these symptoms and complications.

Exercise
Studies suggest that consistently clocking in some form of physical activity helps manage arthritis symptoms. Indulging in activities that do not put sudden and intense pressure on one’s joints helps reduce pain and discomfort. Strength training, walking, swimming, and other similar activities are highly recommended. It is also advisable to seek consultation from a physical therapist to learn exercises and movements that could decrease the pain and increase the range of motion of the affected joints.

Hot and cold therapy
If one is looking for an easy remedy to employ on their own, hot and cold therapy can help with arthritis pain. The process starts with employing hot therapy by using hot compresses over the affected areas. If compresses are not preferable, one could use hot baths and showers to get similar benefits. An alternate option is using electric heating pads. The increased temperature in contact with the affected area results in reduced pain and stiffness.

Cold therapy decreases the level of joint pain and inflammation the patient is experiencing. Cold temperature also brings down the swelling of the joints. It is advisable to use ice packs wrapped in a cloth on the affected region. This is to be done for 15-20 minutes or until the area has grown numb. A bag of frozen vegetables or a frozen water bottle can also be used instead of ice packs. Freezing a wet hand towel is an equally effective remedy.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture is another way of treating arthritis pain. This alternative treatment option is effective in addressing pain and disabilities. Continued use of this therapy can significantly improve pain levels in patients. Although the improvement might not be monumental, it can help improve the current condition. That said, there is a need for more research to be conducted on the subject for concrete results.

Compression gloves
Arthritis patients trust their compression socks and gloves to save their joints from growing stiffer during the night. As opposed to splints, gloves allow a better range of mobility for the wearer and are capable of preventing intense pain. In fact, compression clothing has proven to be able to provide some amount of pain relief and improve the functioning of arms, wrists, feet, and legs.

There are a few more natural remedies that can be practiced at home and can produce significant results for patients. However, there may be times when immediate pain relief is of the highest priority. In such cases, patients can turn to over-the-counter creams and gels that they can procure from any chemist around them. Creams patients will find will generally contain anesthetics, capsaicin, or salicylates. These compounds are what provide the creams with their pain-relieving ability. One will also be able to find pain-relieving patches at some pharmacies. It is helpful to be aware of some commonly available over-the-counter products that can provide much-needed relief.

Biofreeze Professional Pain Relief Spray
Biofreeze Professional Pain Relief Spray is easy to use and readily absorbs into the skin. Its menthol content imparts a cooling sensation that also contributes to the pain-relieving factor of the product. One can find this product in a pharmacy around or in online stores that deliver to one’s exact location. If a person prefers gels, the product is also available in the form of a roller-ball rub that can be used on the affected area. However, it will only be able to provide temporary relief from the pain and may be more effective in combination with other remedies.

Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub
Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub is an all-natural formula that is easy and safe to use. The budget-friendly product is highly recommended for joint and muscle ache relief. Its menthol and camphor content helps deal with redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. The cooling effect of these compounds helps find some relief from the pain that arthritis brings. It is also available in a pump bottle, making it easy to use. Although it is a herbal concoction and is safe to use, it is best to avoid using it on broken skin, open wounds, and inflamed skin.

Bengay Pain Relieving Cream
One of the least expensive over-the-counter creams for arthritis, Bengay Pain Relieving Cream is also one of the most effective options. It can help relieve muscle soreness and minor aches and pains, and the compound may also prove effective against some muscle and joint fatigue. Bengay contains three pain-relieving ingredients, namely camphor, menthol, and salicylates.

Naturopathica Arnica Gel
Also known as nature’s aspirin, arnica is a natural herb well-acknowledged for its pain-relieving property. The Naturopathica Arnica Gel also contains menthol, making it all the more effective against painful and sore joints and muscles. Massaging a dime-sized quantity onto the affected area can go a long way. It can be safely used on sensitive skin and dries off without leaving behind any greasiness.

Icy Hot Vanishing Gel
Made up of menthol and salicylates as its primary ingredients, Icy Hot Vanishing Gel is yet another over-the-counter arthritis cream that can provide immediate pain relief. When applied to affected areas, the cream imparts a cooling sensation. This is soon followed by heat that helps reduce pain and soreness in the bones and joints.

When purchasing over-the-counter products for arthritis pain relief, look for compounds like camphor, eucalyptus oil, cinnamon oil, and menthol. Chemicals like lidocaine can also help since they numb the surface and will result in decreased pain. Most creams will have some amount of cooling agents in them. The relief these products will provide is usually short-lived and may need to be reapplied sometimes.

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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 cell’s 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 cell’s 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 body’s 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.

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10 Nutritious Superfoods for a Healthy Heart

Heart function is one of the most crucial systems in the body primarily responsible for circulating oxygenated blood to all the organs and extremities. Furthermore, the heart pumps blood continuously, but with advancing age, this function may start to deteriorate. So, it is important that one pays attention to daily nutrition, lifestyle choices, and physical activity that promotes healthy heart function. Here is a list of 10 foods that are essential for maintaining heart health. Tomatoes High cholesterol is one of the risk factors linked to the development of heart complications. Tomatoes are rich in a compound called lycopene that helps lower bad cholesterol in the bloodstream. Lycopene is a natural antioxidant that helps remove free radicals causing cell damage, lower inflammation, and prevents oxidative damage that may lead to heart problems. Low cholesterol, in turn, lowers the risk of high blood pressure that can trigger heart attacks or other cardiovascular diseases. Leafy greens Studies indicate that adding more green vegetables to a daily meal plan can lower the risk of heart disease by approximately 16% among adults. Swiss chard, spinach, kale, and collard greens - all top the list of greens to be included to promote weight loss, lower cholesterol, and boost immunity. These greens are rich in Vitamin K, one of the essential nutrients that prevent arteries from clogging up and putting pressure on the heart. Leafy greens also contain fiber, rich antioxidants, potassium, Vitamins A, B, and C, folates, iron, and calcium. Each nutrient is crucial in lowering blood pressure, improving arterial function, and promoting a healthy heart outlook. Whole grains Excess consumption of refined carbohydrates is one of the significant triggers of heart disease complications among adults. This is one of the reasons why nutritionists recommend switching to whole sources of carbohydrate intake that help promote better heart function. Whole grains comprise bran, germ, and endosperm, all loaded with essential nutrients that should form part of daily foods. Whole grains also contain important soluble fibers that promote better digestion, lower cholesterol levels, improve blood circulation, and even maintain blood sugar levels. A balanced intake lowers the risk of heart disease by 20% among adults. Assorted berries Blueberries are a rich source of vitamin K and essential polyphenols that prevent oxidative damage and lower inflammation. These berries also help enhance arterial function and lower bad cholesterol to promote better heart health. Raspberries are a great source of fiber and polyphenols that lower the risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol associated with cardiovascular complications. Besides, strawberries are one of the recommended sources of essential nutrients that lower the risk of triglycerides, and oxidative stress and help maintain blood sugar levels. Also, cherries, bilberries, cranberries, and grapes boast essential nutrients that improve heart health. Avocados Avocados are one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids. But this superfood is also loaded with essential compounds that improve cardiovascular function. Avocados contain oleic acid, one of the best sources of unsaturated fats that helps lower bad cholesterol and prevents the development of coronary artery diseases. A single serving of avocado daily contributes to nearly 30% of the fiber intake necessary to maintain a healthy BMI for heart health. In addition, the fruit is also a rich source of folates, potassium, magnesium, and phytochemicals, among other plant-based compounds that boost cardiovascular function to keep the heart healthy. Assorted nuts Nuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, unsaturated fats, fiber, plant sterols, and L-arginine. Consuming nuts regularly helps improve artery health, lower any inflammation linked to heart disease, and reduce the risk of blood clots that may trigger strokes. Healthy nuts also lower cholesterol levels and prevent spikes in blood pressure. Hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, walnuts, almonds, pecans, and even peanuts are excellent sources of these nutrients necessary for maintaining a healthy heart. It is advisable also to discuss any nut allergies before consumption. Edamame Edamame contains essential soy proteins and essential isoflavones that help lower the harmful, low-density protein levels in the blood and promote good cholesterol levels with regular consumption. Edamame soy proteins also help improve one’s lipids profile when combined with an active lifestyle, exercise schedule, and better stress management. In addition, edamame contains potassium that helps manage crucial functions like heart rate and rhythm. Beans Black beans are a rich source of antioxidants, and fiber, and are extremely low in calories to help boost heart function. It also contains folates and magnesium that improve blood pressure levels. Chickpeas are a great source of fiber, low in sodium, and high in polyunsaturated fats that help maintain blood sugar levels. Navy beans, alternatively, are loaded with potassium, magnesium, essential folates, fiber, carbohydrates, and vitamin B which lowers the risk of metabolic disorders causing heart problems. Lastly, pinto beans and soybeans are also excellent sources of nutrition that help lower bad cholesterol. Fatty fish Salmon is one of the top choices in omega-3-rich fatty foods that prevents inflammation, lower triglyceride levels, and also lessens the risk of cardiovascular complications. Tuna is another excellent option to consider in place of salmon. Other acceptable choices that don’t contain too much mercury include sardines, mackerel, cod, herring, and trout. Nutritionists advise consuming healthy fatty fish in moderation to lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of clotting and other heart complications. Olive oil for cooking Substituting healthy foods is the right move. But it is equally important to switch to healthy cooking techniques as well to promote better cardiovascular function. Nutritionists recommend replacing hydrogenated vegetable oils with olive oil for daily cooking to encourage a higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Olive oil also contains oleic acid, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidants to boost heart functions. It can also help prevent hypertension, one of the leading risk factors associated with heart disease.

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Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

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.
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Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

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.
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Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

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.
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Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

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:
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Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

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.
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Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

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.
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