Telehealth refers to the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to extend care when patients and healthcare professionals are not in the same place at the same time. The technologies utilized for telehealth services include video conferencing, streaming media, store-and-forward imaging, and terrestrial and wireless communications. For those who are fairly new to this type of healthcare distribution, here are things to know about telehealth services before signing up with a provider: Is a safe option One of the biggest concerns with digital platforms is safety. For those wondering if communicating with a telehealth provider is safe, the answer is yes. Here, one meets an expert through video calls via an electronic device such as a tablet, computer, or smartphone. The provider is also required to comply with the same government requirements to protect patient privacy and confidentiality that are applicable for in-person visits. Offers various types of services One might be eligible for various types of services when they sign up with a telehealth provider. They could get access to lab tests or X-rays, care for health concerns including skin conditions, post-surgical follow-ups, and mental health care, including online therapy, counseling, and prescription treatment. Telehealth also offers remote monitoring services to help track health goals and manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. One should also note that it might not be possible to access all types of treatment options remotely. They may still have to visit the doctor’s office for services like diagnostic tests that call for an in-person examination. Accepts insurance coverage While this is still a work in progress, there are various insurance companies that have started to cover the cost of telehealth visits. However, some services here might not be fully covered and may result in out-of-pocket costs. So, one should contact their insurance company and telehealth provider to understand which services are covered.

People start developing cancer because of a combination of factors. Some of these factors are a lack of physical activity, ignoring visible symptoms when they first appear, other illnesses, being unknowingly exposed to carcinogens, certain lifestyle habits, and eating the wrong foods. That last factor is more of a contributing element to cancer than what many people may know about. To help readers know better, here are some of the biggest cancer-causing foods out there: Salted fish Salt can cause several health issues, especially for a person’s cardiovascular and circulatory health. Salt tends to absorb water from the body. So, excessive consumption of salty foods can lead to loss of fluidity in a person’s blood, causing circulation to become much more labored. Salted fish comes with nitrates that are used as preservative agents. These preservatives are used to boost the shelf life of fish. Nitrates are one of the prime carcinogens. They can cause several different kinds of cancer. While a small concentration of nitrates tends to be mostly harmless, regular consumption causes a cumulative effect and can eventually result in malignancy. Sugary drinks Sugar has several inflammatory properties. Consuming sugar-heavy foods can cause inflammation in various areas of the body. From a cancer perspective, sugar-sweetened beverages significantly increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. These drinks do not have any nutritional value while also pumping the body with calories that seriously increase the risk blood sugar spikes. Excessive calorie consumption is known to cause multiple kinds of cancer, such as colorectal cancer, multiple myeloma, liver cancer, esophageal cancer, breast cancer, and endometrial cancer.  From a cancer perspective, sugary and carbonated beverages are among the most dangerous foods. Beef Processed meat-based foods such as beef and pork contain elements that increase the risk of bowel cancer in people. Apart from beef, processed meat-based foods include ham, sausages, bacon, and salami.

An individual may face multiple emotional barriers in life, one of which includes feeling lonely. Loneliness can be defined as “discomfort or uneasiness from being or perceiving oneself to be alone.” It can impact one’s physical and mental health. So, how does one deal with it? Some experts recommend various steps to help one cope with loneliness. These could help individuals connect with others and heal. Here are a few ways to overcome feelings of loneliness: 1. Praying People choose different avenues for coping with loneliness, and prayer is one such mechanism that could help. Praying during times of solitude can help one find comfort and solace. Confiding in an entity much larger and more powerful than oneself can give an individual much-needed emotional support. The process of prayer, which can include meditation, can help one feel more at peace with themselves, as an individual reassures themselves that there might be a higher entity that can understand their needs. Ultimately, it could be one of the factors that helps one filter out lonely thoughts. One could pray in various ways—by themselves or by listening to those who preach through mediums, including television, the Internet, or a dedicated place for prayer. 2. Practicing self-kindness Many tend to blame themselves and hold themselves responsible for feeling lonely. In difficult moments, one of the key aspects to focus on is self-kindness. Taking care of oneself and looking for ways to take a break can help. Something as simple as a walk outdoors or a day at the spa can help alleviate loneliness. 3. Listening to a podcast Podcasts can help us meet some of our most fundamental psychological requirements, such as the need for social connection, according to a study by Stephanie J. Tobin, a senior lecturer in psychology at the University of Queensland.

MAC lung disease is caused by MAC bacteria (Mycobacterium avium complex) living in the soil and water. They generally affect people with compromised immunity and respiratory ailments, causing symptoms like chronic cough, hemoptysis, fatigue, low-grade fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, and anxiety, which may impede daily activities. Eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones is crucial to maintaining one’s quality of life. Here are 13 foods to avoid for MAC lung disease. Dairy People with MAC lung disease must avoid dairy products despite their rich calcium content. This is because dairy has been known to impact respiratory health. According to some studies, drinking milk may increase mucus production, leading to congestion. Consuming cheese may also lead to the release of histamines, which can cause airway inflammation. Salty foods Foods rich in sodium chloride (or salt) can lead to water retention in the body. This can lead to shortness of breath among those who live with lung disease. Apart from cutting back on table salt, one must also check the ingredients in packed foods, seasonings, and dressings. Confirm that these do not contain more than 300 milligrams of salt per serving. Alternatively, opt for herbs and spices to season food. Processed meats Processed meats and cold cuts such as bacon, ham, hot dogs, sausages, and luncheon meats generally contain additives such as nitrates, which help prolong their shelf life. Nitrates have been linked to an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), exacerbating lung inflammation. Processed meats also contain sodium nitrites a carcinogenic compound that may increase the risk of cancer. It is best to avoid these meats or look for variants with no added nitrates. Soda Soda or sweetened carbonated beverages may significantly aggravate MAC lung disease symptoms. This is because soda contains high amounts of sugar, which can lead to inflammation in the body.

Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin patches. The condition can be exacerbated by various factors, including the use of certain products that are meant to clean the skin and get rid of oil and dirt. Here, certain soaps have been known to trigger eczema symptoms, especially in those with sensitive skin. Recognizing common irritants in these products and avoiding them is crucial for managing eczema. Soaps with fragrances Artificial fragrances, commonly found in soaps and skincare products, can be a significant trigger for those with eczema. These synthetic ingredients are designed to add a pleasant scent, but they often contain compounds that can cause skin irritation, redness, itching, and, in severe cases, allergic contact dermatitis. For those with eczema, choosing fragrance-free products significantly reduces the risk of adverse reactions. Soaps with parabens Parabens are synthetic preservatives widely used in personal care products and cosmetics to extend their shelf life. While effective at preventing bacterial growth, paraben can trigger irritation in sensitive skin. Those with eczema might experience redness upon using such soaps. Here, one should check the ingredient label and skip soaps with ethylparaben, methylparaben, or butylparaben, as opting for paraben-free products reduces the risk of allergic reactions when dealing with eczema. Sulfate-based soaps Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) are foaming agents found in many soaps and shampoos. While they are added to help create a satisfying lather, they can strip the skin of its natural oils. This makes it dry and vulnerable to irritation, exacerbating eczema symptoms. Sulfate-free options are gentler on the skin, making them a safer choice for those with eczema. Numerous products are available today that cater to sensitive skin, including sulfate-free soaps, shampoos, and hand washes. Soaps with harsh dyes Synthetic dyes are added to many personal care products to enhance their visual appeal.

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that impacts millions of people worldwide. It’s characterized by signs of arthritis (like joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation) as well as psoriasis (a skin condition leading to scales and plaques). While there’s no cure for psoriatic arthritis, it can be managed with healthy nutrition. Certain foods can worsen the symptoms, while others may soothe them. Here’s a closer look at psoriatic arthritis and the foods to eat and avoid. What is psoriatic arthritis? People with a chronic skin disease called psoriasis have red patches, especially on the elbows, knees, and scalp, with layers of silvery scales on top. These patches are often itchy and painful. In many cases, psoriasis leads to the development of a severe condition called arthritis, which primarily affects one’s joints. Psoriatic arthritis can cause symptoms like swollen toes and fingers, lower back pain, nail pits, and eye inflammation. It can be mild or severe, with flare-ups and remission phases. Foods to eat with psoriatic arthritis The following foods may help improve the symptoms of this condition: Fatty fish Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Avocado and flaxseed oil Both avocados and flax seeds are super-rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. As mentioned, these are known to reduce the levels of inflammatory proteins in one’s body. Turmeric Turmeric, a popular Asian spice, contains an active compound called curcumin. Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory properties that may relieve the condition’s flare-ups. Ginger Ginger is another versatile spice known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It can be added to soups, teas, meals, or plain boiling water. Kale Besides abundant fiber and vitamins A, C, and K, kale has diverse flavonoids. Each flavonoid has distinct antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare, life-threatening blood disorder. People with TTP develop blood clots in small blood vessels throughout the body. The complication could limit or block blood flow to the organs, such as the kidneys, brain, and heart. The phenomenon may further prevent the organs from functioning appropriately and lead to permanent damage. This makes it essential to identify the warning signs of TTP and seek treatment at the earliest. Signs and symptoms of TTP Bleeding into the skin or mucous membranes Since TTP causes increased clotting, more blood platelets might get used up. As a result, it could lead to bleeding underneath the skin or mucous membranes. Those who develop this sign may notice tiny red or purple dots called petechiae on their skin. The dots on the skin may resemble a rash and be misidentified for other health conditions. This is why one must consult with an expert immediately if they have no underlying health complications. Poor blood circulation An individual might develop poor blood circulation when there are insufficient healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen to other parts of the body’s organs. It may develop due to a poor meal regime that lacks iron, which causes anemia. However, one may also experience this if they suffer from TTP. It may occur because the red blood cells are broken into pieces as they squeeze around blood clots. Healthcare experts may use a Coombs test to determine the cause of hemolytic anemia. A negative result indicates that TTP is the cause of anemia and its associated symptoms, like poor blood circulation. Fatigue One may feel fatigued for multiple reasons, including age, extensive exercise, and staying up late. There are also certain sleep disorders and conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy that trigger these symptoms.

Maintaining overall well-being requires eating nutritious meals, following a healthy lifestyle, and getting frequent health checkups. But these days, people also consider taking health supplements to improve their immune system, stay safe from diseases, and live a wholesome life. There are various types of supplements that one could take in this regard, with each boasting its benefits. However, speaking to an expert before including these in their daily consumption routines is essential. Mineral supplements Some individuals might require mineral supplements to manage and improve a deficiency. Calcium Calcium is one of the body’s most essential minerals for bone growth. The RDA of calcium is 1,000 milligrams for men and women between 19 and 51. Women aged 51 and older and men older than 70 may require about 1,200 milligrams of calcium supplementation daily. Apart from bone growth, calcium plays vital roles in muscle function and is essential for the nerves to carry messages from the brain to other body parts. It also helps maintain healthy blood pressure, complements hormone secretion, and contributes to maintaining stronger teeth. An example of where an expert may recommend calcium supplements is for people at risk of osteoporosis, a disease that may cause the bones to turn brittle and break. Iron Some people might suffer from poor blood oxygenation, which results in a weak immune system and fatigue. Individuals may benefit significantly from taking iron supplements, as this increases blood oxygen and improves their overall health. Experts suggest that men and women should get about 8 to 18 milligrams of iron daily. In a nutshell, iron supplementation improves immune function, energy levels, and brain function. It also helps boost the ability to concentrate and carry oxygen in blood. Zinc While individuals might require zinc supplements, they may have to take them in tiny amounts. The RDA for men is about 11 milligrams and around 8 milligrams for women.