11 things and services that Medicare doesn’t cover

11 things and services that Medicare doesn’t cover

Over the years, Medicare has provided health insurance coverage to more than 60 million people nationwide. Individuals above 65 years and those with disabilities have benefited from this health insurance coverage. However, not all healthcare-related expenses are covered by Medicare; some things are excluded. In such scenarios, people should cover the remaining costs by taking supplemental insurance. Some things and services that are not covered by Medicare are listed below. 11 things Medicare doesn’t cover Regular physical exams Medicare doesn’t cover the expenses for routine physical exams that are not related to any diagnosis or treatment of any health condition or symptoms. However, Medicare has been expanded to provide coverage of checkups under certain circumstances. These include a one-time checkup in the first year of enrolling for Medicare Part B. Then, for subsequent years, coverage is provided for annual wellness visits. Eye exams and opticians The original Medicare covers certain eye health-related expenses, such as cataract surgery. However, it doesn’t cover others, such as expenses for contact lenses, expenses for glasses, and routine eye exams. Also, Medigap plans, which are the supplemental insurance plans offered by private insurance providers, do not cover these expenses. However, a few Medicare Advantage plans may cover the expenses for prescription glasses or routine eye checkups.
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9 Foods to Eat to Manage Depression

9 Foods to Eat to Manage Depression

With depression affecting millions worldwide, understanding the potential of food as a complementary approach to managing the condition has become increasingly important. While no magic food can instantly cure the condition, scientific studies suggest that including specific nutrients and certain foods in one’s daily intake can help manage and alleviate its symptoms. One should remember that these are merely complementary and must not replace treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Foods that help manage depression Here are some foods identified by various studies as natural allies to manage depression: Dark leafy greens Dark leafy greens prevent inflammation, which has been linked to severe depression and brain inflammation. Due to their abundance of minerals, phytochemicals, and vitamins A, C, E, and K, leafy greens are particularly crucial. This nutrient-dense food group, which includes spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and broccoli, helps strengthen the immune system and stop the growth of malignant cells in the body. Because they are so versatile, dark leafy greens can be included in all sorts of meals, such as salads, smoothies, soups, or doughs. One can eat them raw in salads, sauté them in olive oil and garlic, mix them with other veggies like corn and bell peppers, or even add them to smoothies with bananas or other fruits for a drink filled with nutrients.
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Signs and causes of narcolepsy and ways to manage them

Signs and causes of narcolepsy and ways to manage them

The body rest and rejuvenates during the night sleep, but some individuals constantly battle the tides of drowsiness and sleep attacks during waking hours. Such individuals may be suffering from a neurological condition called narcolepsy. This sleep disorder presents unique challenges for those affected. The unexpected sleep attacks can disrupt one’s daily life, including productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. Here are the most common signs, causes, and strategies to support those navigating this condition. What is narcolepsy? Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that disrupts the normal sleep-wake cycle. People with narcolepsy often feel excessively sleepy during the day, struggling to stay awake and alert. These unexpected bouts of sleep can interfere with their normal routine and productivity, making it difficult to concentrate, perform tasks, and engage in social activities. Narcolepsy is a lifelong condition, typically emerging during adolescence or early adulthood. Narcolepsy Signs Unexpected sleep episodes Narcolepsy can trigger sudden and uncontrollable sleep episodes, commonly known as sleep attacks. People with narcolepsy may find themselves falling asleep during conversations, while at work or school, while driving, or even during social gatherings. These sudden sleep attacks can be disruptive and potentially hazardous. Fragmented sleep Apart from this, individuals with narcolepsy may often have difficulty staying asleep at night due to fragmented sleep and insomnia.
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9 Natural Remedies for Dry Eyes

9 Natural Remedies for Dry Eyes

A dry eye is a condition wherein the tear glands in the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the eyes wet and comfortable. It is one of the most common eye conditions and can be extremely uncomfortable, with symptoms like stinging, burning, and red eyes. This article lists 9 home remedies to help manage dry eyes and keep them moist and wet. However, it is always best to consult a doctor before trying these home remedies. Washing lashes Inflammation is another symptom that needs to be managed for dry eyes, and another trick to know is to wash those crusty eyelashes. Keeping the surrounding skin and hair near the eyes clean ensures the inflammation does not worsen. One can use mild and gentle soap to wash the eyes lids and even the base of the eyelashes. Eye massage Gently massaging the areas around the eyes can provide numerous benefits. This simple act can help relieve tension, increase blood circulation, and promote muscle relaxation. Even though not touching the eye, stimulating the surrounding areas can help improve eye sensation and boost tear production. It’s important to ensure that the eye massage is always gentle and not painful. Unless one has experience with massage or acupuncture, it’s best to seek advice from a professional before trying it out.
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8 Ways to Avoid Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)

8 Ways to Avoid Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection is a disease caused by the respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus. It is quite a common respiratory health condition in many areas around the world. In most cases, this disease is not overly dangerous. So, the affected people get recovered within a week or two. However, RSV infection can have serious health consequences for infants and older adults. Here are a few tried-and-tested ways to avoid respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV): Wash hands frequently with soap The respiratory syncytial virus tends to stay on one’s hands when they touch infected surfaces. So, whether a person is at home all day or goes out to buy groceries or run errands, they are likely to have the viral particles stuck on their hands at some point. Washing one’s hands regularly with soap and water is an effective way to eliminate these particles from there. One needs to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to get the best results. Alternatively, one can also carry a can of sanitizer with them wherever they go. This can be used to regularly sanitize and disinfect hands. Avoid touching possibly contaminated surfaces The respiratory syncytial virus particles are surprisingly easy to spread from one surface to another.
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7 Common Peeing Mistakes to Avoid for a Healthy Bladder

7 Common Peeing Mistakes to Avoid for a Healthy Bladder

Peeing is such a natural part of our daily lives, that we rarely stop to think about it. It is an important bodily function that helps get rid of waste that the body does not need anymore. Moreover, peeing habits and hygiene practices can contribute to a range of urinary and bladder issues over time, impacting one’s day-to-day activities. Here are seven common peeing mistakes to avoid for a healthy bladder. Holding pee in for too long At times, holding pee in is unavoidable, whether at concerts or long car trips. However, making it a habit can be detrimental to bladder health. Full bladders are more susceptible to infections as the bacteria can grow and multiply at a quicker rate. Over time, the practice of holding urine in for too long can also stretch out the bladder and cause loss of bladder function. On the other hand, those who are not able to hold their bladder at all or suffer from urinary incontinence must visit a urologist or pelvic floor therapist for a proper diagnosis. Not emptying the bladder fully When peeing, it is important to empty the bladder fully. Failing to do so can stretch out the bladder and contribute to bladder troubles over time.
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9 common habits that affect bone health

9 common habits that affect bone health

The bones are arguably the most critical element in the human body. Bones provide structure and facilitate any movement the body makes. However, many people worldwide do not think twice about their bone health. Certain foods and lifestyle habits are detrimental to one’s bone health. Every time an individual eats such foods or carries out those habits, they reduce the strength and longevity of their bones. Here are a few such habits: Drinking too much coffee Drinking coffee is a favorite activity for many people.  Millions worldwide drink the beverage to keep themselves awake and going while they are working. Unfortunately, caffeine, the chief component of coffee, is not suitable for one’s bones. Many studies have found that coffee drastically reduces bone density in postmenopausal women. About six milligrams of bone calcium are lost for every 100 milligrams of caffeine one consumes. Therefore, to avoid osteoporosis, a health condition in which the bones become incredibly weakened and porous with time, one must stop drinking caffeine-rich foods or consume them in moderation. Failing to get enough sunlight Vitamin D is a vital element when it comes to keeping the bones healthy. Sunlight is an abundant source of vitamin D. Therefore, people must go outdoors more often to expose themselves to early morning sunlight, arguably the richest source of vitamin D.
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Top 7 subtle signs of schizophrenia

Top 7 subtle signs of schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a disorder in which one can experience changes in their behavior, feelings, and thoughts. The most common form of this condition is paranoid schizophrenia, where one has an altered perception of reality. Additionally, it is a chronic disorder with episodes followed by remission. Fortunately, one can find treatments and self-help strategies to manage the condition. But first, one has to recognize early signs of the condition and seek a prompt diagnosis. Disorganized speech and thoughts Some people with schizophrenia may experience issues in communication and concentration. This means when asked a question, one may give a completely unrelated answer. One may also form a sequence of random words that do not make sense. Additionally, schizophrenia can lead to thought disorders in which a thought can be suddenly disrupted, making one remain silent before new thoughts form. People with the condition may have episodes where they keep repeating certain words and sentences. Further, issues with associative thinking can be one of the earliest and most subtle signs of schizophrenia. Here, one can move from one thought to another without getting to the point and experience extremely disjointed thoughts. Although in such circumstances, the thoughts may seem random or disconnected, they are usually connected to each other tangentially or superficially.
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Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Cancer that originates in the breast tissue is called breast cancer. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country. The condition is seen in women more than men. Fortunately, advancements in screening and breast cancer treatment have enabled dramatic improvements in survival rates over the years. The symptoms include changes in the texture and shape of the nipples, discharge from the nipples, and a lump in the breast.  Read on to learn the causes, types, and management options of breast cancer.  Causes of breast cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells divide and multiply more rapidly than healthy cells. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or mass. Doctors have not been able to know the exact cause of breast cancer. However, multiple factors can trigger the chances of developing the disease, and they include: Family history and genetics The risk increases if you have parents or close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Having gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are passed down from parents to children, also increases the risk. Age The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age.  Gender The risk of developing breast cancer is higher in women than in men.   Personal history of breast conditions The risk increases when an earlier biopsy has indicated atypical hyperplasia of the breast or lobular carcinoma in situ or if cancer has been detected in one breast.
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Things to know about chronic kidney disease

Things to know about chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease   occurs when there is a gradual failure of kidney function due to illnesses, genetics, etc. The kidneys’ main role is to filter waste matter and flush out excess bodily fluids, but advanced kidney failure causes fluids, electrolytes, and waste to build up in the body. Various factors must be understood to manage the condition, including the causes, symptoms, prevention tips, and more. Read on to learn more about chronic kidney disease. Causes of chronic kidney disease The main causes of chronic kidney disease are as follows: Diabetes When the body’s sugar levels are too high and become unmanageable, bodily organs stop functioning as normal. The first to be affected are the kidneys, leading to diabetes, which, in turn, affects the nerves, eyes, and heart.   High blood pressure This is when blood pressure against the walls of the blood vessels increases, and can lead to chronic kidney disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Hence, chronic kidney disease can also be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure.   Genetics Chronic kidney disease can also be passed down through the genes. Therefore if someone in your close family has the condition, it is likely to be passed down to you.   Autoimmune disease Lupus nephritis is an autoimmune disease that causes swelling of the small blood vessels, which are responsible for flushing waste out of the kidneys.  Birth disorder Sometimes, certain malfunctions of the kidneys develop in the mother’s womb and can cause infections and kidney damage later on in the person’s life.   Other causes Kidney stones or tumors can cause kidney damage or failure if not treated in time.  Glomerulonephritis It is a group of diseases that can cause inflammation in the filtering segments of the kidneys.
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