11 common signs of Huntington’s disease

11 common signs of Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease is a rare, inherited neurological disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. While there is no cure for the condition, early detection is crucial for managing symptoms and providing appropriate care. Nearly 30,000 people in the country are estimated to have this condition, with another 200,000 to be considered at risk of developing the disease. Patients between 30 and 50 years old are most likely to develop symptoms. Motor dysfunction Motor dysfunction in Huntington’s disease is primarily characterized by a movement disorder known as chorea. It involves involuntary, irregular, and sometimes jerky movements that can affect various parts of the body. These movements are often unpredictable and can interfere with daily activities like walking, eating, and writing. As the disease progresses, individuals may also experience other movement-related issues, such as muscle rigidity and slowed voluntary movements. Cognitive decline Cognitive decline in Huntington’s disease encompasses a wide range of cognitive functions. This can involve difficulties with memory, attention, and functions like planning and problem-solving. Individuals may struggle to retain and retrieve information, leading to challenges in both short-term and long-term memory. Additionally, they may find it difficult to focus on tasks or shift attention effectively.
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10 warning signs of osteoporosis

10 warning signs of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens the bones by causing them to become thinner over time. It is commonly associated with aging, as the old bone tissue breaks down faster than it is created. This results in fragile bones, which is what we refer to as osteoporosis. It is often called the “silent disease” as it doesn’t usually show any symptoms in the early stages. But as the disease progresses, some indications of osteoporosis may include: 1. Low bone density Low bone mineral density is an early warning sign of osteoporosis. When caused by loss of bone, this is also referred to as osteopenia. Low mineral content in the bones leads to weaker bones. However, not everyone with osteopenia develops osteoporosis. Individuals with osteopenia must keep a close eye on other symptoms of osteoporosis that may arise. Making lifestyle changes to prevent further bone loss may also be beneficial. These include following a calcium treatment and a balanced meal plan, exercising regularly, and getting enough vitamin D. 2. Bone fractures As the bones weaken, they become more prone to breakage and fractures, even from mild trauma like a small bump, coughing, or bending to pick something up. This is one of the most prominent warning signs of osteoporosis.
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13 foods that may improve bone health

13 foods that may improve bone health

Maintaining overall health is essential for an individual to live a wholesome life. The lack of it can trigger several complications in the body, including brittle bones, a symptom of a bone disease known as osteoporosis. To manage this condition and improve one’s health, experts recommend making specific changes to one’s lifestyle, including eating healthy foods that help the body get the required nourishment. Here are the 11 foods to include in one’s meal plan. Salmon Eating fish such as salmon can offer a range of benefits to improve bone health. This is because salmon contains nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can aid in maintaining better bone health. These nutrients help prevent the breakdown of bones and retain calcium in the body, which in turn helps the bones to protect themselves and avoid osteoporosis. It is recommended to consume canned salmon as it is the best source for improving bone health. Spinach Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach are one of the healthiest food sources for osteoporosis. It is rich in calcium and helps in restoring stronger bones. Another healthy property in the food is vitamin K, which is vital in fighting the effects of and preventing osteoporosis.
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8 common odors that cause migraines

8 common odors that cause migraines

A migraine is not just any other headache; it is an attack that causes severe throbbing pain on one side of the head. Migraines are accompanied by severe nausea, vomiting, and increased sensitivity to sensory triggers like flashing lights and loud noises. Different types of migraines develop depending on the underlying trigger; one such trigger is smell. Here are several types of odors that can cause this headache to develop when exposed: 1. Perfumes and colognes Fragrances used to counter body odor are also the most common triggers of migraine attacks among people. This type of headache is called an olfactory migraine attack, mainly triggered by the evaporation of strong chemicals at room temperature. Fragrances like perfumes, deodorants, and antiperspirants, for example, contain compounds that directly interact with the central nervous system. It can also affect blood pressure, brain function, and pulse rate. It will take a couple of hours, but perfumes can cause persistent headaches. 2. VOCs Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals found in a number of commonly used products in and around the house. Cleaning supplies like detergents, chlorine bleach, dishwashing liquids, rug cleaners, furniture polish, oven cleaners, and even dry cleaning liquids all contain toxic compounds that shouldn’t be inhaled.
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10 signs of vasculitis to look out for

10 signs of vasculitis to look out for

Vasculitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels, which can further cause severe complications by disrupting blood flow. There are several types of vasculitis, all of which can affect one or multiple organs in the body. Hence, it is crucial to recognize the signs of vasculitis. Its effective management and treatment can begin at the earliest. Here are a few common signs of vasculitis that one should look out for: 1. Digestive issues If vasculitis has affected a person’s digestive system, they can experience several digestive problems and gastrointestinal symptoms. This may include abdominal pain (especially after eating), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in some cases, blood in the stool. While these signs can also indicate other health conditions, one must not dismiss them. Either way, they must consult a healthcare professional. 2. Tinnitus Tinnitus is the persistent ringing or buzzing sound that one experiences when there is discomfort in the ear. This happens when vasculitis affects blood vessels present in the ears. Besides tinnitus, vasculitis can cause other ear discomfort, including abrupt hearing loss or deafness. 3. Numbness of limbs A hallmark sign of vasculitis is numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. This occurs due to the disruption of blood flow caused by vasculitis.
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7 signs of kidney cancer that should not be ignored

7 signs of kidney cancer that should not be ignored

Kidney cancer develops in the kidneys, crucial in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the bloodstream. It is considered one of the top ten most common cancers and is more prevalent in men than women. Unfortunately, it is often asymptomatic during its early stages, making it challenging to detect until it has progressed. This article discusses the types, signs, causes, and treatment options available to help one manage the condition better. Types There are several types of kidney cancer, the most common being clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for almost 85% of all kidney cancer cases. It is often malignant, which means that it has the potential to invade and damage surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body. Other less common types include Wilms tumor, seen mainly in children, renal sarcoma that affects a kidney’s connective tissue, and Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). Benign kidney tumors are noncancerous and do not spread to other organs, but they may show specific symptoms similar to kidney cancer. Signs It’s crucial to understand that signs and symptoms of kidney cancer may vary significantly from one person to another, depending on the stage, size of the cancer, age, and overall health condition.
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10 common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis

10 common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a rare and chronic autoimmune disorder that was identified only in the early 1990s. It is known to affect approximately one in 2,000 people. In this condition, a type of white blood cell called eosinophils starts accumulating in the esophagus’s lining. As a result, the esophageal tissues become inflamed. Here are some known and common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options. Common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis A person with EoE has an inflamed esophagus with a high number of eosinophils. When the inflammation is chronic, it leads to the development of several symptoms, difficulty in swallowing or dysphagia being the primary sign. Most other symptoms of the condition differ based on age. Common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in adults: Food often gets stuck in the esophagus after swallowing, also called impaction. Chronic chest pain is experienced in the center of the chest. There is no relief from the pain even after taking prescriptions. There is regurgitation or backflow of undigested food through the esophagus. Common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children: Infants can experience difficulty feeding. Young children may find it hard to eat and swallow solid foods. There are frequent instances of vomiting and nausea.
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11 things to know about telehealth providers

11 things to know about telehealth providers

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.
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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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