Hyperglycemia – Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Hyperglycemia – Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Hyperglycemia is high blood sugar, a complication observed in people with diabetes. It develops when the body has significantly less insulin than required or when the body is unable to process insulin. A person with hyperglycemia usually has a blood glucose level of more than 125 mg/dL when fasting and over 180 mg/dL after eating. When hyperglycemia is left untreated for a long time, it can damage the nerves, organs, and blood vessels. Causes and risk factors Many factors can increase the risk of hyperglycemia in people with diabetes. Some of them are: Insufficient or inaccurate dosage of insulin that one takes to manage diabetes Body’s inability to effectively utilize insulin treatment Excessive carbohydrate intake Leading a sedentary lifestyle Physical or emotional stress Dawn phenomenon, which is a hormonal surge or rise in blood sugar people with diabetes experience every morning Some of the other possible causes of hyperglycemia: Cushing’s syndrome results in insulin resistance Being affected by pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and pancreatic cancer Using certain treatment options Experiencing trauma or surgery Some of the risk factors of high blood sugar are: A family history of diabetes Unhealthy lifestyle High cholesterol Polycystic ovarian syndrome History of gestational diabetes Symptoms Hyperglycemia may not exhibit symptoms unless one experiences extremely high blood sugar levels, for instance, blood glucose over 180 mg/dL. The symptoms start developing over several days or weeks. The longer one has high blood sugar levels, the more severe the symptoms. If it remains undetected for a long time, a possible complication is a diabetic coma or ketoacidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis or DKA and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome develop as a complication of high blood sugar levels. As this is a serious complication, one should contact a doctor when they notice any such issues. When affected by DKA, ketone levels increase in the blood and urine, mainly in people with type 1 diabetes.
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6 Useful Tips to Manage Eczema

6 Useful Tips to Manage Eczema

Eczema is a common skin disease that results in dry, itchy skin. It is also called atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis, in general, is a term used to refer to skin conditions that become a source of irritation. The irritation makes the skin peel off and causes constant discomfort, followed by rashes all over. Besides itchy rashes, eczema sometimes causes tiny bumps on the skin. But one can manage the condition efficiently. What causes eczema? There is no clear cause for this skin disease. Some experts believe that eczema occurs when people inherit defective genes from their parents. In most people, the first signs appear before the age of five. And as the child grows, the condition either vanishes or stays the same. Moreover, anyone can be diagnosed with the disorder, irrespective of skin color. But people with dry skin or working in hot or icy environments are more susceptible. Those at risk should look out for the symptoms and visit a doctor on noticing them. Tips for managing eczema While the condition requires treatment, one can manage mild cases with simple home remedies and lifestyle changes. A few tips are discussed below: Moisturize often Dry skin is one of the most common signs of eczema, and one way to get rid of it is to moisturize frequently. Moist and hydrated skin reduces itchiness and other discomforts, making the condition more manageable. However, it is crucial to use the right product. Doctors recommend moisturizers with natural ingredients and without chemicals. It is because some chemicals work as irritants, triggering an immune response and worsening the symptoms. Resist the urge to scratch Some forms of eczema cause tiny fluid-filled blisters between the layers of the skin, which can last for up to a month. While these blisters can itch, patients must refuse the urge to scratch.
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Avoid These 7 Food Items to Manage Diabetes

Avoid These 7 Food Items to Manage Diabetes

Diabetes is currently one of the most common metabolic diseases worldwide. According to experts, nearly 422 million people live with this condition. Over time, the number is only expected to increase. It is a chronic condition characterized by excessive levels of blood sugar. Though the condition has no definite cure, it can be kept at bay by following healthy nutritional habits. Keep reading to find out foods that are considered unsafe for diabetes patients. Foods to avoid for managing diabetes Living with diabetes means making significant adjustments to the daily meal plan. Many foods that were once a favorite of a patient should be sidelined. Some food items often considered healthy can harm a person diagnosed with diabetes. Some foods that are best avoided while dealing with diabetes are listed here. Processed meat Processed meat is preserved meat that undergoes various preservation methods like smoking, curing, salting, or chemical preservatives. Such foods include bacon, ham, salami, beef jerky, etc. Since chemicals are often used to enhance preservation, it is advised to avoid preserved meat, even by individuals not diagnosed with diabetes. Instead of processed meat, it’s advised to try out natural and lean meat alternatives like chicken, tuna, and turkey. You can also eat eggs, especially hard-boiled ones as their high protein content makes them a safe alternative for diabetes patients. White carbohydrates People with diabetes should eat fewer white carbohydrates. The main reason why diabetes patients should avoid white carbohydrates is that they have less nutritional value and also lacks fiber. White carbs are commonly present in bread made of flour, pasta, and rice. As fiber can reduce sugar absorption and keep your blood sugar level in check, it’s important to eat fiber-rich food. It helps carbs to break into sugar slowly. So, instead of white carbohydrates, you can try healthier alternatives like brown rice, quinoa, whole-grain bread, etc.
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9 Early Warning Signs of Type 2 Diabetes

9 Early Warning Signs of Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes is when the body does not produce or use insulin efficiently. This results in excess sugar or glucose in the blood. The fact that many people might not notice the signs (such as extreme appetite and tiredness) until it’s too late is even more concerning. This blog post will cover some important type 2 diabetes symptoms to watch out for. We’ll also talk about how diabetes affects children, teenagers, and adults. Early signs to watch out for Insulin helps the sugar penetrate into the body cells to be used as energy. Low or inactive insulin leaves sugar accumulated in the bloodstream causing serious health issues affecting the nervous, circulatory, and immune systems of the body. Below are some tell-tale signs of type 2 diabetes that one should be aware of: Increased thirst and frequent urination High glucose levels and bladder function issues associated with type 2 diabetes lead to frequent urination. This, along with less saliva secretion, causes dehydration and dryness in the mouth and throat and increases thirst levels in the patient. Darker skin If a person’s skin is getting darker around the neck, armpits, and groin, one may need to check one’s blood sugar levels. This condition is called acanthosis nigricans (AN), making the skin feel thicker, velvety, and smoother. Frequent infections Diabetes weakens the immune system, making people prone to more infections and illnesses. Look out for recurrent skin, bladder, yeast, and vaginal infections. The excess sugar in the blood makes it difficult for white blood cells to travel in the bloodstream, lowering the body’s fighting ability. Blurred vision High blood sugar can damage the vessels in the eyes causing blurry vision. Excess sugar in the blood can also cause swelling, and itching in the eyes. The swelling will however improve when the blood sugar level reduces.
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6 Tips to Clear Nasal Congestion

6 Tips to Clear Nasal Congestion

A stuffy nose is a sign of a common illness called nasal congestion. In this condition, the nasal cavity and the sinus walls swell up, causing inflammation and fluid accumulation. Patients may also exhibit fever in cases of infection. Also, some may show signs of nasal congestion and polyps for several reasons, such as season changes, allergies, and side effects of prescription treatment options. A runny nose and watery eyes often accompany it. Here are six home remedies that will help you get relief from nasal congestion. Adapt to home remedies for a natural solution For most people who are prone to nasal congestion, following certain home remedies can be the best option. Opting for prescription treatment each time is expensive, and it can adversely affect the body in several ways. For example, having the same prescriptions will cause the body to create a tolerance level, thereby reducing the chances of it affecting the body in the same way. You may need to opt for higher doses for it to be effective again. This hampers and damages your liver drastically. That said, switching to home remedies is a much safer and easier way. Home remedies are natural options and activities that you can do with things easily available at home. This shall be highly effective for you to fight against nasal congestion. They also help in enhancing the tolerance level of your body towards allergens by improving your immunity. This further reduces the chances of getting nasal congestion persistently. Here are some home remedies that are highly effective for managing nasal congestion. Use a humidifier A humidifier is a small device that makes your home a humid and warm place. It uses water and releases it into the air by converting it into moisture. When one has nasal congestion, the nasal walls and the throat is highly inflamed due to the constant sneezing and coughing.
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8 Foods That Help Relieve Nasal Congestion

8 Foods That Help Relieve Nasal Congestion

As the season changes and allergies arise, most people get caught up with nasal congestion. Nasal congestion is when your nasal sinus is filled with fluid and causes coughing, sneezing, and heaviness. In some cases, patients may also have a fever due to the fluid infection. It may turn contagious where the causative agent is a virus or a bacteria. However, most people also get nasal congestion or polyps due to sinusitis, allergies, etc. How to fight nasal congestion? Patients who experience nasal congestion often complain of having it quite frequently. Unfortunately, treatment protocols such as the consumption of anti-allergens and antibiotics can only help with temporary relief. A way to get rid of nasal congestion for a longer span is by identifying the cause. For instance, getting treated for deviated nasal septum or identifying the items you are allergic to and avoid them. Eating the right kind of food can also help manage nasal congestion better. Food that can help you in coping with nasal congestion Add pumpkin seeds to your yogurt Eating seeds in their natural form helps you get great sources of nutrients and fibers that not only help you in the long run but also help you in treating nasal congestion. In most cases of nasal congestion, the walls of the nasal sinus tend to get infected or fill up with fluid, thereby causing inflammation. Pumpkin seeds have Omega 3 fatty acids that help in reducing the level of inflammation. It is also rich in magnesium, which is also anti-inflammatory in nature. As the information decreases, the blood vessels are less compressed, and thus the blood flow increases. This helps in a better drainage system to get off the nasal fluid faster. Enjoy your pineapples Pineapples are almost the favorite of every person, whether eaten as it is in the form of juices.
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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It’s an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It’s rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease . Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers.
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Top Foods for Managing Macular Degeneration

Top Foods for Managing Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in people over 60. Presently, it affects over 10 million people in the country. As one gets older, the risk of developing the condition increases, and so those over 75 have a nearly 33% risk of being diagnosed with macular degeneration. While the disease does not have a permanent cure, a few treatment options and the following nutrient-rich foods can help one manage the symptoms. Whole grains, beans, and dairy Zinc is a vital mineral that helps in the absorption of vitamin A, which aids in melanin production, a pigment that protects the eye. This is why most sight-related issues, such as cataracts or poor night sight, are related to zinc deficiency. Research suggests those with high AMD risk can slow the progression of the disease by adding zinc and some antioxidants to their daily meals. Some great zinc sources are whole grains, dairy products, and beans. Even though one can find zinc supplements in the market, the products might intervene with the body’s ability to absorb copper. So, if one meets their daily zinc requirements via supplements, they opt for copper supplements too. However, before introducing such changes to one’s meal plans, one must discuss them with a nutritionist or a doctor. Nuts and seeds Omega-3 fatty acids provide the body with the nourishment to combat inflammation and are great for eye health. A few excellent omega-3 sources are flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed oil, soybean oil, and canola oil. These foods can help lower bad cholesterol in the body, typically associated with increasing the risk of macular degeneration. Oranges Folate is a B vitamin and aids in cell replication. People who have a substantial folate intake show signs of slow eye disease progression. One can meet the body’s folate requirements by choosing foods like peanuts, orange juice, oranges, Brussels Sprouts, black-eyed peas, grains, and spinach.
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Top 6 Liquid Detergents for Seniors

Top 6 Liquid Detergents for Seniors

If you’re like most people, doing laundry is presumably not your preferred chore. It’s time-consuming and often requires multiple steps. However, one way to make laundry easier is to use a liquid detergent designed specifically for seniors. Liquid laundry detergents are becoming increasingly popular because they are easy to use and can be stored conveniently. They are less likely to cause skin irritation than powder detergents. Below are the top six liquid detergents for seniors. Benefits of using liquid detergents Liquid detergents are an excellent choice for many reasons. Liquid detergents work better than powders because they can penetrate the fabric more efficiently and remove dirt, dust, and stains from the fabric’s surface. They also have a low environmental impact because they do not contain harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. Liquid detergents are also easy to use. You must pour them into your washing machine and wash your clothes. And if you want to save the detergent; liquid detergents come in bottles that allow you to measure how much soap is needed per load. Most liquid detergents are biodegradable, which reduces waste disposal costs and helps protect our environment. Finally, liquid detergents leave your clothes feeling soft and silky after washing them. This is because they dissolve water-soluble fibers in the fabric, which causes them to be drawn out by the washer’s spin cycle. Why should seniors choose their liquid detergents carefully? Our skin becomes sensitive and prone to dryness and irritation as we age. That’s why choosing a liquid detergent designed for seniors is crucial. Look for one that is hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, dyes, and other harsh chemicals. A good senior-friendly liquid detergent will keep your skin clean and refreshed. Top 6 senior-friendly liquid detergents Charlie’s soap natural liquid laundry detergent It is a safe, effective, and affordable option for those seeking an alternative to conventional laundry detergents.
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10 Amazing Laundry Detergents For Daily Needs

10 Amazing Laundry Detergents For Daily Needs

Laundry is an essential daily routine task, which can sometimes get tiresome. With a suitable laundry detergent, your clothes will come clean and smell fresh. Moreover, your laundry detergent should be practical and cruelty-free. To make your purchasing decision easier, here is a list of the top ten highly efficient laundry detergent options and their highlighting features. So, if you want to make your daily laundry tasks easier, read on. Method 8X laundry detergent There are a lot of laundry detergents on the market these days, and it can take a lot of work to single out the right for you. If you’re looking for a highly efficient option, Method 8X laundry detergent is a great choice. This detergent comes in a pump bottle, and it’s able to handle 50 loads of laundry. It’s also very affordable, costing just $14.58 for 20 fl oz. Additionally, it is allergen-free. This ultra-concentrated (8x) formula is plant-based and cruelty-free, making it an excellent choice among eco-friendly options. Moreover, the smart-clean technology ensures that your clothes come out clean and fresh with every wash. Earth Breeze eco sheets This detergent is made with natural ingredients and is available for $20 for 60 loads of laundry. It comes in a convenient 2-pack to clean your clothes without spending too much money. And if that’s not enough, it also has certified organic status, meaning its ingredients are sourced from plants that are certified organic by an accredited body. These sheets are made with phosphate-free and biodegradable ingredients, so you can feel good about using them without harming the planet. This detergent is safe for machine and hand washing, making it an excellent option for anyone who wants to avoid harsh chemicals. They are also paraben-free, making them a perfect choice for sensitive skin. Additionally, they’re highly efficient in removing the toughest stains from all kinds of fabrics, meaning you’ll use less detergent overall and save money in the long run.
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11 Practical Tips For Managing Anxiety

11 Practical Tips For Managing Anxiety

Have you experienced your heart racing faster as a response to a stressful situation? Did your palms ever get clammy when confronted with an overwhelming event or task? These are all typical symptoms of anxiety. It is your body’s natural response to stress and gets triggered by an event, a memory, or by a multitude of things in general. It is essential to identify your triggers and seek ways to cope with or manage anxiety. 11 tried and tested ways to manage anxiety Practice deep breathing Deep breathing increases the supply of oxygen to the brain and helps calm the system down. So, if you feel yourself becoming tense, inhale and exhale multiple times, and you will feel relaxed. It is an excellent activity to slow down and recenter your mind. Write down your thoughts Maintaining a journal to regularly jot your thoughts on paper or in the notes app can help you process your emotions. It also paradoxically eases anxiety. When you dump the thoughts hovering in your head on the paper, you can string them apart and try and get a new perspective. It is known as cognitive defusion, wherein you develop an observer or witness perspective for your thoughts. From the mindfulness perspective, it is decentering, a skill vital for change. It also helps better your meta-cognition skills, which helps with cognitive flexibility, quintessential for mental fitness. Repeat it till you overcome it Do you have a fear of going on the stage? You may be able to get rid of it if you continually push yourself. So, go on the stage repeatedly and perform. Of course, you will be very anxious at first, but over time it will reduce and stop bothering you eventually. So, take the troublesome route and do it over and over again.
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Key Things to Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Key Things to Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular among those looking to replace missing teeth. These implants are strong and durable and look just like natural teeth. Moreover, the procedure is simple. If you, too, are considering dental implants, it is essential to know all the facts before making an appointment with the dentist. This article discusses a few essential things you need to know about implants, from their types to the benefits they offer. What are dental implants? These are artificial teeth recommended for those with missing or damaged original teeth. The implants are affixed by dentists using a few tools. The look-alikes are made using biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, which blend with the bone over time. Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing teeth. They are often considered the best option for people who cannot restore their teeth function using traditional methods, such as dentures or bridges. However, implants may need to be replaced if they wear down or are moved out of position due to chewing or dental issues. What are the steps involved in affixing dental implants? When considering dental implants, it is essential to understand the steps involved in the process. Dental surgery is complex and delicate and requires careful planning and execution. Here are the steps to be followed: Evaluation During this stage, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and determine which type of implant best suits you. This includes taking X-rays and performing a physical examination. Teeth extraction If necessary, the doctor will remove all your teeth before beginning the implant process. This is necessary to ensure no debris or other objects get in the way of implant placement. Grating After your teeth have been extracted, the dentist will use a special grater to create tiny grooves in each tooth surface.
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