Herpes simplex virus – Symptoms, causes, and management

Herpes simplex virus – Symptoms, causes, and management
Herpes simplex virus (HSV), commonly known as herpes, is an infection that may result in painful blisters or ulcers. The disease is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact. There are two types of the herpes simplex virus, type 1 and type 2. According to researchers, around 3.7 billion people under age 50 are diagnosed with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection, and about 491 million aged 15 to 49 globally with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection. Symptoms There are a few things that one should note about the symptoms of the herpes simplex virus. Most people with herpes do not experience any symptoms or only mild symptoms. Others might not even be aware that they have the infection and may pass it along to others unknowingly. The symptoms of the condition may include painful, recurring blisters or ulcers. Furthermore, new infections may result in body aches, a fever, and swollen lymph nodes. An individual with the disease might experience varied symptoms during the first episode of infection than when it recurs. If symptoms occur, they might begin with itching, tingling, or burning sensations near where the sores appear. The common symptoms of oral herpes include blisters (cold sores) or open sores (ulcers) around the mouth or lips.

Top 10 kitchen remodeling errors to avoid

Top 10 kitchen remodeling errors to avoid
Kitchen renovation is an exciting prospect, as it can make the space more functional and visually appealing. The project could involve major changes like knocking down walls, changing countertops, and adding other elements like a breakfast bar and more cabinets. One may also consider changing the backsplash, flooring, and appliances. So, remodeling the kitchen can be a huge undertaking. To ensure it goes as smoothly as possible, here are a few mistakes to avoid: 1. Skipping planning Proper planning is one of the most overlooked aspects of a home improvement project. But, for a successful renovation, one needs to have a vision and a definite end goal, preferably on paper. The vision needs to go beyond just how the space would look and take into account how the new kitchen will serve the inhabitants. Would the kitchen be only used for cooking, or will it also serve as a hangout spot and a breakfast or dining nook? One should assess their requirements and list them, set a budget, and list goals before purchasing materials, hiring contractors, and knocking down the existing structure. 2. Underestimating costs Another huge mistake is setting the wrong budget. One doesn’t need to know the exact expenses beforehand, but they should have an estimate of the cost and leave a little room for the budget to stretch.

Migraine – Ways to manage the condition

Migraine – Ways to manage the condition
Migraine headaches are a devitalizing experience. It completely saps the person of energy and prevents them from being productive during these episodes. There is usually a build-up to a migraine attack which is different for every individual. The phase before the actual migraine attack is known as the aura, and people may report seeing flashes of light or experiencing a tingling sensation. Below are some options for treating migraine headaches: Treatment options Nurtec Nurtec is a treatment option that helps relieve some symptoms of migraines. It reduces the severity of headaches and sensitivity to light. Nurtec is usually taken on alternate days to prevent migraines and other pain associated with the condition. Ubrelvy Ubrelvy, a fast pain-relief, is a treatment option that blocks calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the body. CGRP is associated with migraine attacks, and suppressing it goes a long way in treating the condition. Excedrin This pain reliever does not just treat migraine headaches but also pain in other parts of the body. Excedrin provides fast pain relief to the patient. Qulipta Qulipta is a treatment option that helps prevent migraines over a more extended period. However, medical professionals do not recommend this treatment option to people suffering from kidney or liver problems.

Important things to know about sleep gummies

Important things to know about sleep gummies
Recent data from the National Institutes of Health suggests that around 19% of adults in the country suffer from sleep issues. Science experts have extensively researched and proved the myriad benefits of sleep, from lowering health risks to boosting focus and cognitive functions, improving mood, and even extending life expectancy. But despite that, some people may struggle to get a good night’s sleep for various reasons. For such individuals, products like sleep gummies can benefit. What are sleep gummies? Sleep gummies are chewable supplements that help individuals regulate their sleep patterns so that they can fall asleep easily. Health experts usually recommend them for people dealing with sleep disorders. They contain active ingredients that induce sleep, such as melatonin, L-theanine, or CBD. How do melatonin gummies work? Melatonin has another name, called darkness hormone. The body naturally secretes this hormone during the pre-sleep hours to alert the body and brain that it’s time to sleep. Melatonin regulates the daily circadian rhythm. Usually, melatonin levels surge in response to reduced external light and naturally initiate relaxation of the body. However, any disruptions in melatonin production – whether due to insomnia, light or sound exposure, or even jetlag – can affect one’s sleep.

8 things to consider when choosing a Medicare plan

8 things to consider when choosing a Medicare plan
Medicare benefits many people by helping them meet their healthcare expenses. But providers offer multiple plans with unique features, making choosing difficult. A good way to select a Medicare plan is to research the options well and become familiar with their coverage limits, add-ons, terms and conditions, and other aspects. One must take time and never decide in a hurry. An individual will find that making a choice is much easier after adequate research. Costs When choosing a Medicare plan, one should understand its associated costs, such as premiums, deductibles, and, most importantly, out-of-pocket expenses. Most plans cover a portion of the expenses for doctor visits or hospital stays and require the policyholder to pay the rest. So, one should consider whether there are any yearly limits on out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare services. Usually, there is no yearly limit on paying out of pocket unless an individual has supplemental coverage, such as Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap). Medicare Advantage typically has a yearly limit on what one pays out of pocket for services covered by Medicare Part A and Part B. Once the plan’s limit is reached, one will not need to pay anything for Part A and Part B services for the rest of the year.

6 surprising benefits of Medicare Advantage plans

6 surprising benefits of Medicare Advantage plans
The government provides Medicare and health insurance for older individuals over 65 or those with disabilities or life-long diseases like kidney failure. Medicare can pay for one’s treatments and take off some of the financial burden during emergencies. Medicare Advantage plans act as an add-on service approved by Medicare but provided by private health insurance companies. These provided all the benefits of Medicare plus added benefits that the federal government doesn’t cover. What is a medicare advantage plan? Medicare has different types of plans. The most common ones are Original Medicare, Part A, and Part B. Part A is also called hospital insurance. As the term suggests, it covers all inpatient service costs, home care services, and nursing expenses of the patients when admitted to the hospital. Part B is medical insurance and covers medical supply expenses, routine doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services. One can also sign up for a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C). Apart from providing all the benefits of the previous two plans, Part C provides added coverage like vision, hearing, dental, and health and wellness programs. These plans are also referred to as “MA Plans,” and private companies approved by Medicare offer them to customers.

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5 styling ideas for women over 60

5 styling ideas for women over 60

Age is a number when setting a true style statement. Regardless of anyone’s perception, just because you are reaching the 60s doesn’t imply to stop working on your appearance and renounce your desires to look fabulous. Fashion is not just merely about trends; it is about how you express yourself through clothes as the myths of age must not limit your expression. So, here are a few best styling ideas for women over 60: Embrace your age One of the most typical fashion mistakes people make is choosing outfits that are supposed to make them appear younger than their actual age. The problem with such a choice is that you are paradoxically accentuating your age when you try to look younger by wearing an outfit that will be more appropriate for youngsters. For example, if you don high heels, short skirts, or flashy fashions that might be more appropriate for a person half your age, you are indirectly making yourself appear “older.” Instead, you can opt for clothes that are specially tailored for women your age. Sporting “age-appropriate” dresses will conceal your age and make others appreciate your other features like glowing skin or your build. And consequently, you will appear much younger than your actual age.
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5 tips to prevent and manage ulcerative colitis

5 tips to prevent and manage ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term inflammatory disease that triggers inflammation and ulcers in the digestive system. It impacts the colon and rectum’s innermost lining. The symptoms are typically produced over a period rather than unexpectedly. According to the latest studies, about 1 million people have ulcerative colitis, and if left untreated, it can be crippling and cause life-threatening conditions. So, here are 5 tips to prevent and manage ulcerative colitis: Get on with the treatment plan immediately Even though there is no concrete cure for ulcerative colitis, proper treatment can help ease the symptoms and signs of the condition and eventually provide long-term remission. If a patient feels that their bowel habits are consistently changing or if they experience any of the following symptoms and signs, they should immediately consult a doctor: Blood in stool Ongoing diarrhea that is not getting cured by any other types of treatments An unknown fever going on for more than a day or two Abdominal pain Diarrhea that wakes up the patient from sleep The treatments prescribed by the doctor will typically include a combination of oral therapy or surgery. As far as oral treatments are concerned, the doctor may prescribe any of the following types of therapies, depending on the patient’s existing condition:
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