Things to know to effectively manage rheumatoid arthritis

Things to know to effectively manage rheumatoid arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common health conditions that affects about one out of four adults in the country. It can be both inflammatory and non-inflammatory. Managing rheumatoid arthritis entails slowing the disease’s progress and eliminating the symptoms. Even though not validated through clinical tests, many patients ease their stiffness and pain by eliminating specific foods from their nutritional regime. Here is a list of 7 things one must avoid for managing rheumatoid arthritis: Omega-6 fatty acids and fried foods Notwithstanding the kind of oil used, fried foods are always harmful to a rheumatoid arthritis patient. This is because the presence of trans fats (known to cause inflammation within the body) in fried foods tends to be higher than in broiled or grilled foods. Some typical foods containing trans fats include shortening, margarine, lard, butter, non-dairy creamer, and coconut oil. Besides, specific oils used for frying are especially notable for increasing inflammation due to the presence of Omega-6 fatty acids. Furthermore, the cooking method called frying proves harmful to the patient due to its tendency to release AGEs, a principal contributor to inflammation. Refined sugar and carbohydrates Having a sweet tooth can be agonizing for a Rheumatoid Arthritis patient as their condition will compel them to give up on several sweet-tasting delicacies.

8 common signs and symptoms eosinophilic esophagitis

8 common signs and symptoms eosinophilic esophagitis
The esophagus or food pipe transfers food to the stomach. However, it can get inflamed due to conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE). In EOE, eosinophils release substances in surrounding tissues that lead to inflammation. This causes the organ to contract and abscesses or ring-like projections to form. EOE can be triggered by acid reflux or food allergies. To manage the condition, here are some signs and symptoms of EOE that one should not ignore: Symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE) The symptoms of EOE may vary among adults and children, although certain symptoms are common in both. So, here are the signs and symptoms of EOE among children and adults: Symptoms of EOE in adults Studies have shown that EOE in adults usually shows up in the form of strictures, rings, and narrowing of the esophagus. As a result, adults with EOE may have these symptoms: Difficulty swallowing One of the classic symptoms of EOE is difficulty swallowing. The technical term for this symptom is dysphagia. In usual circumstances, one may face dysphagia if they gulp down their food, but the symptom shows up for those with EOE even when they chew their food well. Acid reflux Acid reflux is usually a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a health condition closely related to EOE.

7 tips to eat healthy on a budget

7 tips to eat healthy on a budget
Food prices are on the rise, and eating healthy may seem like a task given the hefty bills after a run to the grocery store or a dinner out with friends. That said, there are definitely ways to eat wholesome and satiating meals without dipping into one’s savings. For this, one needs to plan ahead and shop strategically. Here are a few other tips that can help one eat healthy food on a budget: 1. Buy whole foods Whole foods, or foods that aren’t processed to change their structure, can be surprisingly affordable. For instance, a pack of canned beans costs less than a pack of refried ones. Similarly, a block of cheese is much cheaper than shredded cheese. Consider buying whole fruits and vegetables instead of pre-chopped and packed salads. When considering per-serving costs, whole grains, oats, and brown rice are cheaper than most processed cereals. Additionally, buying fruits and vegetables that are in season is also a great way to incorporate soluble and insoluble fiber into one’s meals. Fruits and vegetables that are available all year tend to be a tad expensive. Also, picking seasonal produce means that it is packed with nutrients and flavors. Moreover, buying produce by bag is a budget option rather than buying per piece.

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:

Signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children

Signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a relatively rare, chronic condition that can affect children. It’s characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, often in response to allergens or other triggers. While EoE can be challenging to diagnose, recognizing early signs is essential for timely intervention and effective management. Here is a comprehensive guide to better understanding the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children, providing an understanding of this condition for parents and caregivers. What it is Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the esophagus, the tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach. In individuals with EoE, the esophageal tissue becomes infiltrated with eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in allergic reactions and immune responses. Eosinophils in the esophagus cause inflammation, leading to uncomfortable and potentially severe symptoms. While the exact cause of EoE remains unclear, it is believed to be related to genetic factors, environmental triggers, and allergies. Allergens such as pollen, certain foods, or airborne allergens may contribute to the development or exacerbation of EoE. Following are the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) One of the hallmark signs of EoE in children is difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia.

3 ways to deal with an overactive bladder

3 ways to deal with an overactive bladder
People with an overactive bladder (or OAB) experience a sudden and frequent urge to urinate. About 40% of women and 30% of men in the country deal with this condition, which can be caused by weak pelvic muscles, nerve damage, and excessive caffeine consumption. Those affected may have to urinate more often than usual and can even experience leakage. Here are a few treatment options, foods to eat and avoid, and ways to manage OAB: Treatment options Persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor so that they can determine the right course of treatment for OAB. Here are popular options that can be considered based on the doctor’s recommendation: Gemtesa: It is an FDA-approved prescription treatment for adults affected by OAB. It helps relieve urinary symptoms like urgency, frequency, and even incontinence. Gemtesa is an oral treatment, usually taken with water. Common side effects include diarrhea, headache, or nausea. Myrbetriq: It can help treat bladder issues like neurogenic detrusor overactivity and overactive bladder. This treatment option relaxes the detrusor, a bladder muscle, making it easier for the bladder to accommodate more urine and reduce OAB symptoms. Doctors recommend oral consumption of Myrbetriq once a day. Adults can have it with or without food, while children must take it with food.

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4 tips for dealing with asthma

4 tips for dealing with asthma

Asthma is a respiratory condition wherein the airways in the lungs swell up, become narrow, and produce extra mucus, making it difficult to breathe. People affected can experience breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing. The disease could be a minor issue for some, while others may have to deal with serious long-term symptoms. Although there is no permanent cure for asthma, here are treatment options, foods to have and avoid, and alternative therapies to manage the symptoms: Treatment options Doctors can recommend the right course of treatment based on the severity of asthma symptoms. Here are a few popular options: Tezepelumab: It is a popular treatment option, approved by the FDA as a supplementary maintenance remedy for pediatric patients over 12 and adults with asthma. Tezepelumab is an injectable option and the first and only biologic to significantly and consistently reduce severe asthma symptoms in clinical trials. Fasenra: This is a monoclonal antibody that works on the immune system activity in the body. Fasenra helps control the elevated eosinophil count responsible for severe asthma symptoms. This injection is suitable for children over 12 and adults and can be used with other treatment plans to keep flare-ups in check. Nucala: This is a monoclonal antibody that also reduces the eosinophils in the body.
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4 useful tips for managing migraines

4 useful tips for managing migraines

Migraine is a prevalent health condition in which a person experiences severe headaches, usually on one side of the head. There may also be other symptoms like sensitivity to light, tiredness, and nausea, which can last a few hours to two days. The ailment is triggered due to stress, certain foods, and other factors. While there is no cure for migraines, the following tips can help manage the symptoms effectively: Use the correct treatment options There are several treatments for migraines, but it is essential to choose the correct one after consulting a doctor. The popular options include: Nurtec ODT Nurtec ODT is an oral treatment that can help alleviate symptoms like headaches, pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light in adults. One can use Nurtec ODT on alternate days or as the doctor recommends. Its side effects include allergic reactions, trouble breathing, and rash. UBRELVY It is a fast-acting treatment option that blocks a specific protein in the body known to induce migraine attacks. One can consult a doctor to determine the dosage according to their condition. The most common side effects of UBRELVY are nausea and sleepiness. Excedrin Excedrin is suitable for temporary relief from migraine headaches. It can also treat aches caused by other factors, such as arthritis and toothaches.
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