Experiencing a runny nose, also known as rhinorrhea, can be a frustrating symptom caused by viral infections, sinusitis, allergies, and sometimes cold weather. This symptom can be accompanied by nasal congestion, leading to much discomfort. Although rhinorrhea typically subsides on its own, it can be pretty bothersome. Fortunately, there are several ways one can try to alleviate this annoying symptom and put a stop to a runny nose. Some of them are: Take steam Inhaling steam is a simple yet effective method to relieve a runny nose. It helps by loosening mucus, clearing nasal passages, and alleviating discomfort associated with a runny nose. A helpful way to inhale steam is by slightly heating some water in a clean vessel – like a pot or a bowl, leaning over the vessel, covering oneself with a towel or blanket, and inhaling the steam. However, one would need to take care of a few factors when trying this method, such as only heating the water till it starts steaming and not letting it boil, keeping their face at a safe distance from the bowl (about 10 inches away), and closing their eyes when inhaling the steam. One can also enhance the steam’s effectiveness by adding a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint, which have decongestant properties. Apply a warm compress Another simple method to help relieve a runny nose is applying a warm compress over the nose and the forehead. For this, one must soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it over their nose and forehead. The warmth will soothe the nasal passages and relieve the symptoms. However, when trying this method, it is crucial to ensure the compress’ temperature is not too hot to avoid burning the skin. Stay hydrated Drinking plenty of water and other hydrating fluids is necessary when dealing with a runny nose.

The lungs are vital organs in the human body that facilitate the respiratory process by ensuring oxygen is brought into the body, enabling one to breathe. Therefore, each individual must keep the lungs healthy to improve overall well-being. However, certain things could worsen lung health, including some foods in one meal regime. These foods may often lead to conditions like asthma and COPD and trigger breathing difficulties. Let’s look at the 11 trigger foods for the lungs. Bacon Most people enjoy bacon for breakfast or other meals of the day. However, processed meat is unhealthy for one’s overall health, including the lungs. Bacon is often treated with additives and preservatives to enhance the flavor and prolong shelf life. But these added properties are linked with an increased risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which may trigger breathing difficulties. Other processed meats equally bad for lung health include ham, hot dogs, and sausages. Vegetable oil It isn’t uncommon for people to use vegetable oil for most of their cooking. But this could have adverse effects on their health and also damage their lungs. Some vegetable oils contain unhealthy fats that could trigger heart diseases, increased inflammation, and excessive mucus production, which may consequently affect an individual’s breathing. A few products to steer clear of include canola, soybean, sunflower, grapeseed, and safflower oil. One could consider healthier options instead, such as olive oil. Sugar Sugar is considered one of the unhealthiest ingredients that one can add to their meals. It can lead to increased mucus production in both healthy people and those affected by asthma. Moreover, asthma patients were found to have a more significant reaction to sugar, indicating that it could play a role in worsening the condition and triggering breathing trouble. Hence, it is advisable to either reduce sugar intake to zero or consult a healthcare professional to determine the ideal daily value.

Hearing aids are designed to enhance hearing by amplifying sounds, making them audible to a person with hearing loss. These are accessibility devices that improve one’s quality of life with minimal difficulties. However, first-time users of hearing aids may have a hard time adjusting to the device. They may end up making certain mistakes, which negatively impact their experience of using hearing aids. However, most of these common mistakes are easily avoidable. Here are some common mistakes new hearing aid owners make and how to avoid them. Not wearing the hearing aids for enough time One may often feel strange or uncomfortable when they start wearing hearing aids for the first time. This is because it takes some time to adjust to having a device in the ears throughout the day. So, many first-time users tend to take out the hearing aids after wearing them only for a couple of hours. Then, they do not wear the devices for the rest of the day. Doing this may make one feel comfortable, but it will be detrimental to the progress of adapting to the hearing aids. The devices are meant to improve hearing. If one doesn’t wear them all the time, it will become difficult to get the most out of hearing aids. To avoid this mistake, one can start by wearing hearing aids for a couple of hours. Then, take them out for a few minutes to take a break and insert them again. Over time, increase the duration of wearing the devices from two to eight hours and decrease the break times. This way, one will become more comfortable with having the aids inside their ear. Not learning how to use the hearing aids properly A common mistake many new hearing aid owners make is not learning how to use the devices properly.

To manage diabetes, it’s crucial to pick healthy snacks that don’t cause spikes in blood sugar and reduce insulin levels. In a market filled with ultra-processed snacks, this can often be difficult. For the best results, it is important to pick foods rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. This article will discuss 14 nutritious snack ideas that are perfect for individuals with diabetes and can help manage the condition better. 1. Hard-boiled eggs These are a rich source of protein. As a result, they promote fullness, reduce calorie intake, and restrict glycemic spikes in the blood, making them a great snack option for diabetics. According to a study, consuming two hard-boiled eggs daily may help reduce fasting blood sugar levels and lower hemoglobin A1c levels. 2. Popcorn This whole-grain snack is rich in fiber and has a low-calorie content, making it a great movie snack, even for those with diabetes. One cup of air-popped popcorn contains only 31 calories. It is important to note that store-brought varieties of popcorn can be loaded with salt and fat, so it is safer to make them at home using an air popper. 3. Almonds Almonds are a convenient snack on the go. They contain over 15 vitamins and minerals, such as manganese, magnesium, and riboflavin. Some studies suggest that almonds may help reduce insulin and long-term blood sugar levels to help stabilize blood sugar. 4. Chia seed pudding Embrace the latest food trends to find a healthy snack option for diabetics. Make chia seed pudding by mixing milk with chia seeds and letting it sit to achieve a pudding-like consistency. This is a great way to stay full, stabilize blood sugar, and lower triglyceride levels, as chia seeds are a rich source of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) is a group of blood disorders affecting bone marrow and blood stem cells. It is also called bone marrow failure disorder. MDS is more common in older individuals, usually above 65 years old, and more prevalent in men. Lack of timely medical intervention can complicate the condition and cause cancer, worsening one’s overall health. So, it’s essential to know and address the signs, which can also potentially improve the disease prognosis. What is myelodysplastic syndrome? Myelodysplastic syndrome, also known as myelodysplasia, is also considered to be the pre-leukemia stage. It originates in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. Those affected by MDS do not produce enough healthy blood cells or see an abnormal development in them. This often leads to dysfunctional or insufficient platelets, white blood cells (WBCs), or red blood cells (RBCs). Thrombocytopenia refers to a platelet deficiency; neutropenia characterizes a shortage of white blood cells (WBCs); and anemia is a low count of red blood cells (RBCs). While the exact cause of MDS is unclear, certain risk factors, such as age, exposure to certain chemicals, and previous cancer treatments, may contribute to its development. Signs of myelodysplastic syndrome Here are a few known signs of myelodysplastic syndrome: 1. Unexplained fatigue and weakness One of the earliest and most common signs of MDS is unexplained fatigue and weakness. Individuals may find themselves feeling tired even after adequate rest, and simple tasks may become more challenging. The underlying cause lies in the compromised production of red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Anemia resulting from MDS can lead to decreased oxygen levels, causing fatigue. 2. Easy bruising MDS also affects the production of platelets, which are crucial for blood clotting. As a result, individuals may experience easy bruising, bleeding gums, excessive bleeding even with minor cuts, or delayed healing even from minor injuries.

Bone health is a surprisingly overlooked aspect of many individuals’ wellness routines. Bone care should be a priority because bones support the body, enable movement, and protect the organs from harm. Unlike in the case of some conditions, one does not need a complex exercise routine for bone health; what’s required is proper nutrition. However, certain foods can make the bones weaker and leave people vulnerable to osteoporosis. Here are eight such foods to note. Tacos Tacos tend to have a lot of salt and spices, and salt contains sodium and chloride. Sodium is an essential nutritional element, but consuming too much of it makes the bones brittle with time. Both sodium and chloride contribute to the collective breakdown of one’s bones through the erosion of calcium from them and, over some time, also contribute to the skewing of the blood’s overall pH level. Some of the foods that contain an abundance of sodium and salt are bread and rolls, pizzas, sandwiches, soups, burritos, tacos, chicken, lunch meat, cheese, pretzels, and eggs. Hamburgers Several studies have found that both low-fat and high-fat foods can increase a person’s chances of developing osteoporosis or worsening the condition if they already have it. Red meat, especially, is known to make bones brittle and prone to damage and long-lasting injuries. Red meats such as beef, pork, and lamb are extremely high in saturated omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. These fatty acids not only leave people vulnerable to osteoporotic fractures, but also a range of cardiovascular issues. Hot dogs, bacon, hamburgers, and sausages are made using red meat and contain polyunsaturated fats. They are, thus, foods that weaken the bones and help worsen osteoporosis. Carbonated sodas Excess consumption of fizzy drinks, such as carbonated sodas, is typically responsible for a whole host of health problems in people.

Whether one is just starting one’s fitness journey or has been at it for a while, there are common mistakes that can slow down progress and even lead to injuries. With numerous pieces of advice available online, it can be challenging to find something that works for one’s body. However, certain mistakes have consistently prevented people from reaching their fitness goals. In this article, we will discuss 16 such mistakes that are best avoided for maximum results. Skipping warm-ups Warm-up is essential to prepare one’s body for more intense physical activity and increases flexibility. Warming up ensures that muscles are adequately oxygenated for the upcoming workout, reducing the risk of strains and sprains. A warm-up routine that includes light cardio, such as jogging or jumping jacks, can effectively get one’s heart rate up and blood flowing to the muscles. Overtraining Pushing the body too hard without sufficient rest can lead to burnout and injuries. It’s essential to allow the body sufficient time to rest and recoup between workouts. Overtraining can also cause fatigue, decreased performance, or affect one’s immune system in the long run. Ignoring nutrition Nutrition plays a crucial role in ensuring that the exercises work well on the body. Consuming the right nutrients before a workout provides the energy needed for optimal performance. On the other hand, post-workout nutrition helps in muscle recovery and replenishes one’s energy. Neglecting a balanced intake of food can hinder progress, impact overall health, and result in fatigue and delayed recovery. It’s best to include a mix of nutrients to support energy levels, muscle recovery, and overall well-being. Improper form Incorrect form during exercises increases the risk of injury and reduces the effectiveness of the workout. Seeking guidance from a professional or using instructional videos can help maintain proper form. Consistent attention to form ensures that the targeted muscles are engaged and reduces the risk of strains.

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the bladder, the organ that is responsible for storing and expelling urine. While bladder cancer may not always show warning signs and symptoms in its early stages, there are crucial signs that, if recognized early, can lead to timely diagnosis and increased chances of an effective treatment. Hence, individuals must be aware of certain warning signs that may indicate bladder cancer, such as the following. Blood in urine Blood in urine, clinically known as hematuria, can occur in visible or microscopic forms. In cases of visible blood (also called gross hematuria), one might notice an unusual pink, red, or brownish discoloration in their urine, which may indicate the presence of blood. Microscopic hematuria (also called microhematuria) indicates that blood in the urine is not visible to the naked eye. It can only be detected through laboratory tests, which emphasizes the need for regular checkups. It is also important to note that the presence of blood in urine does not definitively point to bladder cancer. It may also be due to bladder or kidney stones, intense exercises, kidney injury, or urinary tract infections. Regardless, it is still a matter of serious concern and requires immediate medical attention. Change in the frequency of urination A sudden change in the frequency of urination can also signify an underlying issue. If one finds themselves needing to urinate more frequently and is also experiencing a heightened sense of urgency to urinate, they must consult a healthcare professional. While these changes may seem benign, they could be indicative of a medical condition, including bladder cancer. Difficulty in urinating Experiencing difficulty in urinating can be a distressing symptom, and it may indicate bladder cancer. One may find themselves struggling to pass urine due to experiencing pain or a burning sensation during urination.