A rare class of disorders called myelodysplastic syndrome prevents the body from producing healthy blood cells. It is also referred to as “bone marrow failure.” Although it affects people of any age, this rare type of cancer primarily affects the elderly, particularly those over 65. A blood test is usually used to detect or diagnose this condition. The symptoms are fatigue and shortness of breath. Some of the treatments for this condition are listed below. Treatment options for myelodysplastic syndromes The primary goals of myelodysplastic syndrome treatment are to reduce the illness’ progression, ameliorate its symptoms, and avoid complications. Since this condition has no known cure, certain treatments may limit its progression. Transfusion therapy Transfusion therapy (blood transfusion) replaces blood cells destroyed by illness or treatment by infusing red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. A red blood cell transfusion is administered when the blood cell count is low and signs of anemia, such as shortness of breath or fatigue, occur. A platelet transfusion is frequently given to a patient undergoing a procedure that may result in bleeding or a low platelet count. Besides, patients who frequently receive blood transfusions may suffer tissue and organ damage from excess iron accumulation. These patients may receive iron chelation therapy to eliminate the excess iron from the blood. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a method of eliminating damaged cells by preventing them from dividing and growing. A chemotherapy schedule, or regimen, typically consists of a set number of rounds administered over a set period. Conventional chemotherapy may help people with high-risk MDS subtypes. Depending on the patient and the dosage used, this type of therapy may cause fatigue, an increased risk of infection, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, a loss of appetite, and diarrhea. When the treatment is over, these side effects usually disappear.

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) refer to closely related hematopoietic disorders characterized by abnormalities in the bone marrow’s blood-forming cells. Classified as a rare type of blood cancer, this disease typically affects the elderly. Research suggests that MDS can progress to acute myeloid leukemia in one in three patients. However, a systematic treatment course, adequate healthcare, and proper nutrition can help control MDS symptoms. Some natural remedies to manage MDS are listed below. Aromatherapy Aromatherapy refers to using essential oils to calm the mind and body. Aromatherapy is also used among patients with cancer to reduce chemotherapy-induced symptoms. Moreover, individuals with MDS typically undergo extensive treatment courses, which can lead to considerable distress and anxiety. Aromatherapy is a tried-and-tested practice to facilitate mind relaxation and lower stress levels. Massage therapy Research indicates that massage can considerably reduce fatigue among cancer patients. Patients with MDS typically face anxiety due to the uncertainty involved. In addition, massage therapy can help them cope better with the treatment process and reduce negative emotions associated with it. Breathing exercises Breathing exercises increase the oxygen supply to the lungs, enhancing one’s quality of life and helping with healing. It can also help MDS patients with mind and body relaxation, which is much needed amidst the intensive treatment procedure. Acupuncture Acupuncture is a treatment method that involves the insertion of extremely thin needles into the skin at specific body areas. Besides entailing several benefits, such as relief from headaches, back pain, neck pain, and respiratory problems, it also helps reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. In addition, since many patients with MDS have to undergo chemotherapy, acupuncture can provide relief after the operation and contribute to a more hassle-free recovery. Yoga Although yoga cannot directly help fight cancer, it can help patients alleviate its side effects and lead a more peaceful life on their paths to recovery.

The esophagus, also known as the food pipe, carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is a critical component of the digestive system. Esophageal cancer is a condition in which cancerous cells rapidly multiply and occupy the tissues of the esophagus. While cancer here is certainly treatable, it may not be completely curable. To reduce the severity of symptoms, doctors first need to diagnose the condition based on the following typical symptoms: Swallowing difficulties The growth of cancerous cells in the esophagus makes it narrower. As a result, ingesting food becomes much more difficult. This results in trouble swallowing food, even small bites. Additionally, swallowing solid food may become painful for people with esophageal cancer. Hoarse voice The growth of cancerous cells can affect parts of the throat, such as the vocal cords and the larynx. As a result, the voice undergoes a transformation and becomes unnaturally hoarse and raspy, especially as cancer progresses. Muscle loss When dealing with esophageal cancer, one may lose their appetite and willingness to eat. This is aggravated by the difficulty swallowing food and the accompanying pain. As a result, one dealing with this kind of cancer may tend to have smaller and less frequent meals over time. They may also find it easier to have beverages and fluids than solid food. Eventually, this tendency deprives one of the necessary proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals required to build strength and resilience to diseases. The cumulative effect of these factors is rapid muscle loss in a short period of time. This is one of the main esophageal cancer symptoms, and if one observes this symptom, they should get screened for cancer. Persistent cough The cancerous cell growth in the throat also can cause irritation and a buildup of mucus. This leads to a near-persistent cough—one of the most common esophageal cancer symptoms.

Most people do not think much about urination, a common bodily function. However, maintaining good bladder health is essential for overall well-being. Issues like restricted flow or infections in the urinary tract often lead to other health conditions that are hard to manage. From controlling the urge to not emptying the bladder fully, here are some common peeing mistakes to avoid to achieve good bladder health and avert potential health complications. Holding the urge to pee The bladder can stretch to accommodate more urine, but putting off the urge to pee repeatedly for prolonged periods may cause bladder damage, leakage, foul-smelling urine, and a loss of control. To avoid this, one should take regular bathroom breaks at work, school, or anywhere else. Peeing too often Peeing too often or each time one leaves the house, even when there is no urge, is a mistake that can lead to an overactive bladder. This condition reduces the bladder’s capacity to hold urine and leads to leakage, disrupting one’s daily life. Straining while urinating Sometimes, people strain their muscles to increase the pressure on the bladder and speed up the urination process. This habit can lead to prostate swelling, weakened pelvic muscles, weak urine flow, or bladder outlet obstruction. Peeing should happen effortlessly, and a healthy bladder works best when one’s muscles are relaxed. Not staying hydrated The appearance and smell of a person’s urine can speak a lot about their hydration levels. A well-hydrated body produces clear, water-like urine, while dehydration can cause urine to appear dark yellow and emit a strong odor. Dehydration can also cause kidney stones, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and other health concerns. Not emptying the bladder fully When one does not pee fully during a bathroom break, the urine gathers in the bladder, increasing the risk of infections and other health problems.

A dazzling smile is not just aesthetically pleasing but also a reflection of good oral health. However, certain habits can wreak havoc on our teeth, leading to dental problems and compromising our pearly whites. Numerous things can impact your teeth, from sugary indulgences to neglecting oral hygiene. However, some practical tips may benefit individuals striving for strong and healthy teeth. But eliminating the following unhealthy habits can safeguard dental health and maintain radiant smiles. Extra sugar Intake of excessive sugar is one of the primary culprits that cause tooth decay and cavities. And it’s not just a common cause of dental trouble for children. Adults that are used to eating too many desserts and continually attached to sugary beverages show the same outcome. Therefore, limiting sugar intake, be it via food or drinks, is crucial. Also, it is essential to rinse the mouth with water after sugar intake to minimize its impact. Overlooking oral hygiene Neglecting proper oral hygiene is another bad practice that leads to unhealthy and damaged teeth. However, regular brushing and flossing will free them from plaque and prevent harmful bacteria buildup. Therefore, establish and diligently maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine to maintain sound oral health. This, combined with regular dental check-ups and timely replacement of toothbrushes, will go a long way in helping you avoid frequent dental procedures for a long time. Clenching teeth Over time, grinding or clenching teeth can severely damage your dental health. Bruxism can wear down the dental enamel and may even lead to issues like sensitivity, jaw pain, or other similar complications. Identifying the triggers for bruxism and exploring techniques that help relieve such triggers is important. For example, the dentist might even prescribe you to wear a nightguard that will help protect your teeth while you sleep. Other usage Many people put their teeth to extra use by tearing open packages or even uncapping bottles.

All living organisms require water for survival. Regular hydration guarantees multiple health benefits to humans as water keeps their circulatory system in good shape. It also helps to nourish one’s skin and flush out toxins from within the body. Unsurprisingly, not drinking adequate amounts of water can result in severe health risks in the long term for individuals. Some of the major side effects of not drinking enough water are listed below. Bad breath Water supports the salivary glands to produce large amounts of saliva throughout the day. It helps to keep the mouth lubricated and avoids dry mouth-related issues. A key function of saliva is also to kill harmful bacteria in one’s gums and teeth. These benefits are of no use when one does not drink enough water throughout the day. One of the most significant side effects of insufficient saliva production is bad breath triggered by a dry mouth. However, it is also a problem that can be resolved easily. By drinking adequate amounts of water daily, one can keep their mouth wet and moist at all times to avoid bad breath. Thickening of blood Water is a crucial contributor to the circulatory system. When the body lacks enough water, an individual’s blood tends to become thicker. It directly results in blood circulation to different body parts getting slower and more labored eventually. As a result, the heart has to utilize a lot more energy than usual to pump blood to all parts of one’s body. It is why people who do not drink adequate amounts of water (about 3 to 4 liters) are more likely to develop cardiovascular disorders. Low energy and fatigue Due to slowed blood circulation, major organs, such as the brain, lungs, and kidneys, receive less oxygen and nutrition. This results in people who do not drink enough water daily to feel constantly tired and lethargic.

Blood is the essential component that keeps all the systems ticking within the human body. Blood circulation facilitates the transportation of oxygen and nutrients to all the vital organs of the body. Certain factors, such as high cholesterol and dehydration, can slow down a person’s blood circulation, causing a range of health issues. One can detect blood circulation issues through certain symptoms, and some common warning signs of poor blood circulation are discussed below. Unusual skin changes Several blood vessels are present directly under the first few layers of one’s skin. Therefore, the first warning signs of poor blood circulation are often felt on the skin. Some of the changes one feels on their skin are twisted, bulging blue varicose veins appearing on the legs and ankles. This happens when a valve within a given vein fails and causes disruption in blood circulation. Apart from that, the appearance of blue skin on the lips, nose, hands, ears, and feet is also caused by stunted/slowed-down blood circulation. Tingling sensation in hands and feet This condition, known as pins and needles, is a direct result of poor blood flow. One may have experienced this directly on their palm after sitting on their hand or laying on their arm for too long. Tingling sensations are caused when too much pressure does not allow blood to flow to certain areas of the body. The hands and feet are technically the farthest points of the human body, so if someone has blood circulation issues, then they are likely to experience tingling in these parts of the body. Slow healing of wounds Wounds heal when the blood flows into the affected area and supplies it with the requisite oxygen, nutrients, and white blood cells to heal quickly. When a person suffers from blood circulation issues, their wounds do not get a proper and quick supply of blood, causing their wounds to heal slowly.

Women must visit a gynecologist regularly to ensure their health and well-being. Although being open and frank during gynecological appointments is essential, some questions may be awkward or uncomfortable. Although by answering them, we hope to encourage women to prioritize their health and seek the care they need from gynecologists without hesitation. So, here are six questions that women may find embarrassing during a gynecological visit but should ask for better clarity. Is it necessary to reveal one’s sexual activity? One of the most common questions that can cause embarrassment is related to sexual activity. Gynecologists inquire about sexual activity to assess potential risks and ensure they offer the right advice regarding birth control, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and any other concerns that may arise due to sexual activity. Answering honestly helps the gynecologist provide the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Are there any issues with my menstrual cycle? Gynecologists may inquire about the regularity, length, and intensity of menstrual cycles to evaluate one’s overall reproductive health, potential hormonal imbalances, or underlying conditions. Is it normal to experience pain during sexual intercourse? The pain may sometimes result from infections, hormonal imbalances, vaginal dryness, or lack of lubrication due to nervousness. One can talk about ways to find better ways to alleviate the pain. Should I be worried about changes in my breasts? Changes in breast size, shape, or texture can indicate hormonal fluctuations, benign conditions, or, in rare cases, breast cancer. Is the odor or discharge normal? A strong vaginal odor or any discharge may, at times, be caused due to an infection or poor hygiene, but most bodily fluids are considered normal, and any changes in them may be due to lifestyle factors. Does libido get affected due to hormonal birth control? Hormonal birth control is usually designed to suppress ovulation, so there’s a possibility that it may affect one’s health.

Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that can affect thoughts, feelings, and behavior. The condition affects less than 1% of the country’s population. The symptoms associated with the disorder can change the ability to think and act, leading to problems in carrying out day-to-day activities. Typically, those with schizophrenia may require lifelong treatment. However, early detection can help in symptom management. So, here are a few early signs of schizophrenia that one can recognize: Disorganized thinking and speech When dealing with schizophrenia, one may experience difficulties in concentrating and maintaining a train of thought. Usually, this sign leads to speech problems. For example, the individual can respond to a question with a completely unrelated answer, repeat words and phrases, or rapidly move from one topic to another. Lack of emotional expression The lack of emotional and facial expressions, also known in psychology as “flat affect,” has often been associated with schizophrenia. It refers to emotional numbness, where one can have some trouble trying to feel and express emotions. For instance, one may be delighted, but due to any lack of expression on their face, observers may believe otherwise, leading to misunderstanding and miscommunication. Social withdrawal or isolation People with schizophrenia may experience bouts of social withdrawal, which can be triggered by fear and confusion. Alternatively, the urge to withdraw can stem from a loss of interest in social activities and situations. If left unchecked, this sudden loss of social interest can lead to a reduction in social and emotional support. This can further increase anxiety, paving the way for prolonged social withdrawal. Inappropriate behavior One of the early signs of schizophrenia is disorganized or inappropriate behavior. A few signs that can indicate such disorganization are a lack of inhibition and impulse control and unpredictable emotional responses, which can seem bizarre or inappropriate to others.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a health condition that affects about 30% of people affected by psoriasis, bringing the number of patients in the country to around 2 million. Just like psoriasis causes inflammation of the skin, Psoriatic arthritis results in inflammation of the joints. The best way to manage this condition is a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Here are some essential management tips necessary to manage psoriatic arthritis and reduce flare-ups: Treatment options Doctors might have to go through various treatment plans since finding one that suits the patient isn’t easy. That said, there are some options that show substantial results and are commonly prescribed. These include the following. OTEZLA® Approved by the FDA, OTEZLA® is a prescription treatment option for patients with psoriatic arthritis. It acts by inhibiting the phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) enzyme that is the cause of the increased inflammatory response of the body. Regular use of OTEZLA® has proven beneficial for patients and can be combined with phototherapy or topical treatments. RINVOQ® RINVOQ® is an oral treatment option for active psoriatic arthritis patients. Doctors usually prescribe this treatment option when patients fail to respond to one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. It is an oral treatment option used for adult PsA patients only. Foods to eat and avoid Omega 3 helps lower inflammation in the body and improves bone health. Some foods that need to be included in regular meals are salmon, walnuts, and seeds. Fruits and vegetable portions also need to be increased as they provide the body with necessary nutrients and have anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, foods with inflammatory properties can contribute to the worsening of symptoms in patients with PsA. These include foods like dairy and dairy products, sugar, processed meat, red meat, fried foods, and processed food products. Lowering the intake of these food groups can show improvement in the patient’s condition.