10 unhealthy habits that damage one’s teeth

10 unhealthy habits that damage one’s teeth

Maintaining good dental health goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. One must also take care to avoid certain unhealthy habits that damage teeth. However, most of these habits do not cause any issues immediately; the effects are seen only after a few years. But it takes time to undo the side effects. So, the sooner one starts to get rid of these bad habits, the better it is for the teeth and gums. Using a stiff-bristled toothbrush It is a misconception that the harder the bristles are of a toothbrush, the more effective it will be in removing plaque and keeping the teeth clean. On the contrary, hard bristles cause more damage to the teeth by scrubbing at the protective enamel layer. It can also cause tooth sensitivity and gum recession. So, always pick a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles for gentle and thorough cleaning. Nail biting Biting on one’s nails can lead to chipping, cracking, and wearing down of the teeth. Sometimes, constant nail biting can also cause dysfunction of the jaws. This happens because the jaws are pushed to an unnatural angle when biting on the nails. As this habit persists over time, it leads to temporomandibular disorder, or TMD, an oral health disorder that causes pain in the jaws.
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9 warning signs of poor blood circulation

9 warning signs of poor blood circulation

Poor blood circulation is responsible for reducing the blood flow to the various organs and muscles, which can cause severe complications in individuals. This condition develops when the circulatory system cannot pump blood effectively to various body parts, leading to low oxygen levels and nutrient deficiency. This condition usually affects the hands and feet of an individual. Here are some warning signs of poor blood circulation in the body which you should be aware of. Numbness in some body parts Experiencing a numbing or tingling feeling in the hands and feet is a common sign of poor blood circulation. In addition, some individuals may also feel pins and needles in their extremities due to inadequate blood flow to the area. This sensation occurs when the restricted blood flow does not reach sufficient quantities. Cold hands and feet When the blood flow is low and does not reach the hands and legs, it can also make these body parts feel colder than the rest. This temperature fluctuation is an issue that affects not just the skin but also the nerve endings of the arms and legs. However, some other conditions can also lead to cold hands and feet, so always be aware of the symptoms thoroughly.
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Bone cancer – Types, warning signs, lifestyle tips, and more

Bone cancer – Types, warning signs, lifestyle tips, and more

Bone cancer refers to the growth of malignant cells in a bone, most commonly the arm, leg, or pelvic bones and sometimes the skull, hip, and ribs. Eventually, the cancer-causing cells spread to other body parts, including surrounding bones, organs, and tissues. Bone cancer may be cured completely if diagnosed at the initial stages. Moreover, early diagnosis can help curtail the spread of cancerous cells. Here are the types and warning signs of bone cancer: Types of bone cancer Osteosarcoma Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer, wherein the cells that produce bones begin growing excessively, causing the development of a cancerous tumor in the bone. It typically occurs among children and young adults. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma is a rare condition in which the cancer develops outside of the bone. Ewing sarcoma Ewing sarcoma develops in the pelvic region and commonly occurs among children and young individuals. Chondrosarcoma Chondrosarcoma involves the excessive growth of cells that produce cartilage. It is the second most common type of bone cancer. Early signs of bone cancer Swelling Most patients with bone cancer experience swelling and inflammation over the affected bone. Such swelling can considerably restrict one’s mobility, especially if it occurs on a bone situated close to a joint.
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9 menstrual mistakes to avoid for better health and hygiene

9 menstrual mistakes to avoid for better health and hygiene

Menstrual health and hygiene is often an overlooked aspect of one’s overall health. As a result, there are several period mistakes that one may unconsciously commit, increasing the chances of infections and health disorders related to the reproductive system. Therefore, it is important to follow good hygiene practices to help one stay comfortable during periods without any potential health risks. Here are a few period mistakes to avoid for better health and hygiene. Using scented pads, tampons, or toilet paper Fragrant hygiene products contain several chemicals. Some of these even contain additives such as aloe. These additives can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin. Since the skin in and around the vagina is already sensitive, using scented pads, tampons, or toilet paper can cause discomfort. There can be persistent itching or burn-like symptoms. So avoid using fragrant, feminine hygiene products during periods. Make sure everything is fragrant and additive free. Organic products, menstrual cups, or reusable cloth pads are better alternatives. Changing tampons or pads infrequently To avoid rashes, bacterial growth, infections, and inflammation, it is important to change pads once every four hours. In the case of tampons or menstrual cups, a change is needed once every six to eight hours, depending on one’s period flow.
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7 foods to avoid with atrial fibrillation

7 foods to avoid with atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a health condition that disrupts the heart’s rhythm. This negatively affects the rhythmic pumping of the atria, or upper chambers, of one’s heart. People with this condition experience fast or irregular heart rates. This makes the heart less efficient in terms of circulation. As a result, it has to work doubly hard to pump blood to various parts of the body. There are certain foods that can worsen this condition. These are foods that patients with atrial fibrillation should avoid: Potato chips Certain food-based compounds can mess with the circulatory system and one’s cardiovascular health. Two such prominent components are partially hydrogenated vegetable oils and margarine. These are usually associated with deep-fried foods. Both of these components contain trans fats in high proportions and can dramatically increase the risk of atrial fibrillation in individuals. Apart from atrial fibrillation, these foods also increase the possibility of developing other cardiovascular ailments. Butter, red meat, and cheese are loaded with saturated fats, while margarine, cookies, potato chips, partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, doughnuts, certain cookies and crackers, and other deep-fried foods are filled with trans fats. Therefore, if one has a habit of tearing open a pack of potato chips and bingeing on them, they will need to let go of it to keep their heart healthy and away from atrial fibrillation.
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8 common signs of a weak immune system

8 common signs of a weak immune system

A strong immune system works as a shield to protect against infections and diseases caused by pathogens and foreign substances. But sometimes, immunity can weaken, leaving one susceptible to several health issues. Also, the recovery time from these illnesses tends to get longer. Therefore, it is important to recognize the common signs of a weak immune system to maintain overall health and take the necessary precautions after consulting a primary care doctor. Common signs of a weak immune system Here are a few common signs of a weakened immune system: Frequent instances of infection When the immune system becomes weak, there are frequent infections. This happens because there is a decrease in the production of white blood cells and antibodies. These are responsible for fighting off bacteria and other germs that cause infectious diseases. As a result, one frequently experiences mild to severe infections such as the common cold, flu, and ear, urinary tract, and sinus infections. Wounds take time to heal Whenever there is a cut, burn, scrape, or any type of wound, white blood cells, antibodies, and essential nutrients flow through the blood to the wound area. This helps the damaged skin layers regenerate faster, so the wound heals quickly without any complications or infections.
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10 habits that worsen skin health

10 habits that worsen skin health

As the most visible component of the body, a person’s skin is an accurate reflector of their overall health. People can keep their skin healthy by following certain lifestyle habits such as drinking loads of water, exercising regularly, and getting adequate amounts of sleep every day. On the other hand, certain bad habits can steadily debilitate the skin and make it appear dull and wrinkly. Here are some poor habits that worsen skin health: Not drinking enough water A major reason why some people have elastic and soft skin is because they drink lots of water. Drinking water keeps the skin hydrated and adequately moisturized, which indicates that a person has healthy skin. On the other hand, dehydration causes the skin to look dull, less resilient, and dry. Also, drinking less water removes the body’s ability to flush toxins out, causing eventual breakouts and other skin issues. Ideally, health and skin experts suggest that one must drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water every day without fail. Skipping broad-spectrum sunscreen People should use sunscreen while stepping out of their homes on a sunny afternoon or when one is about to be exposed to sun rays for longer periods.
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13 superfoods for cancer prevention

13 superfoods for cancer prevention

Research data estimates that approximately 5.5% of the population nationwide suffers from cancer. While genetic factors also play a role in the onset of cancer, certain lifestyle changes can help with its prevention. According to WHO, 30-50% of all cancer cases can be prevented. Following a healthy meal plan, staying physically active, and avoiding processed foods are some ways to help prevent cancer. Here are some superfoods that can reduce cancer risk: Garlic Garlic serves several vital functions in the body besides flavoring one’s food. This ingredient fights against H. pylori, a bacterium associated with stomach cancer, and reduces one’s risk of developing stomach, pancreatic, and colon cancer. It also reduces the risk of other cancer types, including esophageal and breast cancer. Peeling and chopping garlic cloves about 20 minutes before having them can activate compounds containing sulfur and maximize their anti-cancer properties. Tomatoes These versatile fruits are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that terminates cancer cell growth, prevents damage to DNA, and enhances the functioning of enzymes involved in destroying cancer-causing elements. Studies have shown that a meal plan rich in lycopene can reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer by 31%. It is also proven to help prevent prostate cancer.
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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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