10 warning signs of liver cancer

10 warning signs of liver cancer

Liver cancer is a rare yet serious condition. Each year, around 800,000 people in the world are diagnosed with this condition. Liver cancer begins in the cells of the liver and is characterized by a few recognizable signs and symptoms. Understanding these warning signs of liver cancer is crucial, as it allows individuals and healthcare professionals to take prompt action. So, below are a few early signs of liver cancer. Loss of appetite One of the most common and early signs of liver cancer is loss of appetite. If a person finds themselves constantly uninterested in eating despite not having eaten anything in hours, it is a serious cause of concern. They may even find themselves feeling full after consuming a very small amount of food. If this is happening persistently, the person must consult a healthcare professional at the earliest. Upper abdominal pain Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, especially on the upper right side, can also be a warning sign of liver cancer. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be persistent. It is essential not to dismiss or neglect such persistent upper abdominal pain. Abdominal swelling Another warning sign of liver cancer is abdominal swelling. This occurs due to fluid retention and accumulation in the abdominal cavity, which further causes bloating and abdominal discomfort. If one notices persistent abdominal swelling and discomfort, it is advised to get a health evaluation. A lump under the ribs One of the most common warning signs of liver cancer is that the person may feel a lump or a mass under their ribs on the right side. This could occur because of the enlarging of the liver, called hepatomegaly, or an enlarged tumor pressing against surrounding tissues.  Jaundice Liver cancer can also be characterized by jaundice. It is the noticeable yellowing of the skin and the white area of the eyes.
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11 common signs of Huntington’s disease

11 common signs of Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease is a rare, inherited neurological disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. While there is no cure for the condition, early detection is crucial for managing symptoms and providing appropriate care. Nearly 30,000 people in the country are estimated to have this condition, with another 200,000 to be considered at risk of developing the disease. Patients between 30 and 50 years old are most likely to develop symptoms. Motor dysfunction Motor dysfunction in Huntington’s disease is primarily characterized by a movement disorder known as chorea. It involves involuntary, irregular, and sometimes jerky movements that can affect various parts of the body. These movements are often unpredictable and can interfere with daily activities like walking, eating, and writing. As the disease progresses, individuals may also experience other movement-related issues, such as muscle rigidity and slowed voluntary movements. Cognitive decline Cognitive decline in Huntington’s disease encompasses a wide range of cognitive functions. This can involve difficulties with memory, attention, and functions like planning and problem-solving. Individuals may struggle to retain and retrieve information, leading to challenges in both short-term and long-term memory. Additionally, they may find it difficult to focus on tasks or shift attention effectively. These cognitive impairments become more apparent as the disease progresses and can significantly impact one’s daily life. Behavioral changes Behavioral changes are often profound and can greatly affect an individual’s personality and interactions with others. Mood swings, irritability, and unpredictable emotional responses are common warning signs of Huntington’s disease. In some cases, individuals may exhibit aggressive behavior or even withdraw from social interactions altogether. These behavioral changes can be emotionally distressing for both the individual with Huntington’s disease and their loved ones, requiring patience, understanding, and sometimes professional intervention. Psychiatric symptoms Huntington’s disease frequently manifests with psychiatric symptoms. These symptoms can be particularly challenging to address as they may occur independently of, or in conjunction with, other signs of the condition.
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10 warning signs of osteoporosis

10 warning signs of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens the bones by causing them to become thinner over time. It is commonly associated with aging, as the old bone tissue breaks down faster than it is created. This results in fragile bones, which is what we refer to as osteoporosis. It is often called the “silent disease” as it doesn’t usually show any symptoms in the early stages. But as the disease progresses, some indications of osteoporosis may include: 1. Low bone density Low bone mineral density is an early warning sign of osteoporosis. When caused by loss of bone, this is also referred to as osteopenia. Low mineral content in the bones leads to weaker bones. However, not everyone with osteopenia develops osteoporosis. Individuals with osteopenia must keep a close eye on other symptoms of osteoporosis that may arise. Making lifestyle changes to prevent further bone loss may also be beneficial. These include following a calcium treatment and a balanced meal plan, exercising regularly, and getting enough vitamin D. 2. Bone fractures As the bones weaken, they become more prone to breakage and fractures, even from mild trauma like a small bump, coughing, or bending to pick something up. This is one of the most prominent warning signs of osteoporosis. Although fractures can occur in any bone, the most common locations for bone breakage include the hip, spine, and wrist. Research suggests that bone fractures can increase one’s risk of disability or death. 3. Losing height While it is common to stoop and lose height as one ages, losing more than 1.5 inches may be a sign of osteoporosis. This generally occurs due to fragile spinal vertebrae and compression fractures (which occur when the bones press and collapse against each other). 4. Curved upper back Another common warning sign is a curved or hunched upper back.
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13 foods that may improve bone health

13 foods that may improve bone health

Maintaining overall health is essential for an individual to live a wholesome life. The lack of it can trigger several complications in the body, including brittle bones, a symptom of a bone disease known as osteoporosis. To manage this condition and improve one’s health, experts recommend making specific changes to one’s lifestyle, including eating healthy foods that help the body get the required nourishment. Here are the 11 foods to include in one’s meal plan. Salmon Eating fish such as salmon can offer a range of benefits to improve bone health. This is because salmon contains nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can aid in maintaining better bone health. These nutrients help prevent the breakdown of bones and retain calcium in the body, which in turn helps the bones to protect themselves and avoid osteoporosis. It is recommended to consume canned salmon as it is the best source for improving bone health. Spinach Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach are one of the healthiest food sources for osteoporosis. It is rich in calcium and helps in restoring stronger bones. Another healthy property in the food is vitamin K, which is vital in fighting the effects of and preventing osteoporosis. One could also include dark leafy green vegetables like turnips, bok choy, kale, collard greens, and Chinese cabbage in their meals to improve bone health. Sweet potato Sweet potatoes are a popular snack enjoyed by many. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with brittle bones and those at risk of osteoporosis. It is because sweet potatoes contain magnesium, which contributes to healthier bones. Additionally, sweet potatoes are rich in potassium, which helps neutralize the body’s acid content. Doing so allows more calcium to be retained in the bones, further promoting bone health. Grapefruits Grapefruits are not only delicious but they are also loaded with essential nutrients that can benefit individuals with weak bones.
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8 common odors that cause migraines

8 common odors that cause migraines

A migraine is not just any other headache; it is an attack that causes severe throbbing pain on one side of the head. Migraines are accompanied by severe nausea, vomiting, and increased sensitivity to sensory triggers like flashing lights and loud noises. Different types of migraines develop depending on the underlying trigger; one such trigger is smell. Here are several types of odors that can cause this headache to develop when exposed: 1. Perfumes and colognes Fragrances used to counter body odor are also the most common triggers of migraine attacks among people. This type of headache is called an olfactory migraine attack, mainly triggered by the evaporation of strong chemicals at room temperature. Fragrances like perfumes, deodorants, and antiperspirants, for example, contain compounds that directly interact with the central nervous system. It can also affect blood pressure, brain function, and pulse rate. It will take a couple of hours, but perfumes can cause persistent headaches. 2. VOCs Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals found in a number of commonly used products in and around the house. Cleaning supplies like detergents, chlorine bleach, dishwashing liquids, rug cleaners, furniture polish, oven cleaners, and even dry cleaning liquids all contain toxic compounds that shouldn’t be inhaled. People with migraines should be extra careful about exposure to the mildest of VOCs, as it can immediately trigger a painful headache that persists. When inhaled, these compounds trigger a nerve response that can result in migraine flare-ups of varying intensities. 3. Certain substances Direct or indirect exposure to products that release certain lung-harming chemical substances into the bloodstream can also trigger migraine attacks. The odor of these fumes released upon burning such products is pungent and very heavy to breathe, resulting in headaches. Because these stimulants speed up nerve cell communications between the brain and the body, the severity of the headache depends on the intensity of the odor and the duration for which one remains exposed to these odors.
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10 signs of vasculitis to look out for

10 signs of vasculitis to look out for

Vasculitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels, which can further cause severe complications by disrupting blood flow. There are several types of vasculitis, all of which can affect one or multiple organs in the body. Hence, it is crucial to recognize the signs of vasculitis. Its effective management and treatment can begin at the earliest. Here are a few common signs of vasculitis that one should look out for: 1. Digestive issues If vasculitis has affected a person’s digestive system, they can experience several digestive problems and gastrointestinal symptoms. This may include abdominal pain (especially after eating), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in some cases, blood in the stool. While these signs can also indicate other health conditions, one must not dismiss them. Either way, they must consult a healthcare professional. 2. Tinnitus Tinnitus is the persistent ringing or buzzing sound that one experiences when there is discomfort in the ear. This happens when vasculitis affects blood vessels present in the ears. Besides tinnitus, vasculitis can cause other ear discomfort, including abrupt hearing loss or deafness. 3. Numbness of limbs A hallmark sign of vasculitis is numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. This occurs due to the disruption of blood flow caused by vasculitis. Some also describe this sign as a ‘feeling of pins and needles’ in their hands and feet. This sign can also be accompanied by swelling of the palms or feet. 4. Shortness of breath If vasculitis has affected lung blood vessels, a person may experience shortness of breath. Lung discomfort may also include persistent coughing. In some cases, individuals may also cough up blood. These signs of respiratory discomfort can also indicate other ailments, but either way, they must be brought to the attention of a medical professional. 5.
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7 signs of kidney cancer that should not be ignored

7 signs of kidney cancer that should not be ignored

Kidney cancer develops in the kidneys, crucial in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the bloodstream. It is considered one of the top ten most common cancers and is more prevalent in men than women. Unfortunately, it is often asymptomatic during its early stages, making it challenging to detect until it has progressed. This article discusses the types, signs, causes, and treatment options available to help one manage the condition better. Types There are several types of kidney cancer, the most common being clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for almost 85% of all kidney cancer cases. It is often malignant, which means that it has the potential to invade and damage surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body. Other less common types include Wilms tumor, seen mainly in children, renal sarcoma that affects a kidney’s connective tissue, and Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). Benign kidney tumors are noncancerous and do not spread to other organs, but they may show specific symptoms similar to kidney cancer. Signs It’s crucial to understand that signs and symptoms of kidney cancer may vary significantly from one person to another, depending on the stage, size of the cancer, age, and overall health condition. Additionally, many of these telltale signs often remain concealed during the early stages of the disease. But some of the most common signs that should prompt medical evaluation include: Blood in the urine Medically termed as hematuria, this is a hallmark sign of kidney cancer. Blood presence in the urine may also have other causes, like urinary tract infections and kidney stones, but it warrants immediate medical attention in all cases. Hematuria can manifest as pink, red, or brownish urine; the bleeding may sometimes be internal. Lower back pain Many individuals with kidney cancer report experiencing persistent pain in the side or lower back, just below the ribcage.
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10 common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis

10 common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a rare and chronic autoimmune disorder that was identified only in the early 1990s. It is known to affect approximately one in 2,000 people. In this condition, a type of white blood cell called eosinophils starts accumulating in the esophagus’s lining. As a result, the esophageal tissues become inflamed. Here are some known and common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options. Common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis A person with EoE has an inflamed esophagus with a high number of eosinophils. When the inflammation is chronic, it leads to the development of several symptoms, difficulty in swallowing or dysphagia being the primary sign. Most other symptoms of the condition differ based on age. Common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in adults: Food often gets stuck in the esophagus after swallowing, also called impaction. Chronic chest pain is experienced in the center of the chest. There is no relief from the pain even after taking prescriptions. There is regurgitation or backflow of undigested food through the esophagus. Common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children: Infants can experience difficulty feeding. Young children may find it hard to eat and swallow solid foods. There are frequent instances of vomiting and nausea. Most kids experience persistent pain in the stomach Some children may experience impaction when food gets stuck in the esophagus after swallowing. Some children do not respond to GERD treatments, triggering the symptoms. In many cases, kids with EoE fail to thrive, including poor growth development, low BMI levels, and malnutrition. In severe cases, affected persons may experience chest pain. In addition, there might be shortness of breath along with pain in the arm or jaw. In such cases, seeking immediate medical care or going to a nearby emergency room is important. Causes and risk factors of eosinophilic esophagitis Eosinophils belong to a category of white blood cells that are usually found in the digestive tract.
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