The list of worst cities to live in for people with asthma is drawn up by the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America (AAFA). Cities are judged on parameters such as the number of asthma cases, asthma-related deaths and trips to emergency rooms, pollution, poverty, access to health insurance and asthma specialists, and exposure to smoke. These factors gravely affect the quality of life of people with asthma. The most challenging cities include: Detroit, Michigan In 2022, Detroit was named the most challenging city for people with asthma, according to the AAFA. This can be attributed to the city’s high poverty rates and low air quality. Detroit also ranks third highest for asthma cases and eighth highest for asthma-related deaths among the 100 cities that were examined. Cleveland, Ohio Cleveland’s high ranking on this list is due to the high levels of asthma cases, along with asthma-related deaths and visits to the emergency room. This is further worsened by high levels of poverty and ozone pollution, which have reduced the chances for asthma care in the city. Allentown, Pennsylvania Allentown has a high level of asthma cases in the city, along with the second highest level of visits to the emergency room for asthma, according to the AAFA.

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that leads to dry and flaky skin. The skin becomes red, itchy, and inflamed due to this condition. The intensity of these symptoms could vary from one person to another, mild to severe. While there is no cure to the illness, there are possible ways to manage the triggers through lifestyle changes and food habits. Here are some foods that help combat atopic dermatitis . Bananas Bananas are an excellent superfood for those managing eczema symptoms. The high potassium content is not only good for the skin but also helps fight inflammation. These are also the kind of fruits that are very inexpensive and easy to find in stores, making them a convenient addition to a meal plan. Apples Apples are known for their flavonoids. These compounds have antioxidant and antihistamine properties, making them one of the best fruits to combat any body or skin inflammation. Since they are also known for their rich vitamin C content, they make for an excellent food choice to avoid dry and itchy skin conditions. Make sure you have the apple with its skin; it has nutrients too. Sweet potatoes Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients.

Bones make up our skeletal structure that supports all organs and muscle groups in the body. Studies reveal that most adults reach their peak bone mass by 30. This is when new bone formation is at its prime. And to supplement this important function, the body must absorb essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, phosphorous, and proteins. Here are the top five nutritious sources that supplement daily bone growth and health requirements. Calcium-rich foods Calcium is one of the most crucial vitamins for bone health. A calcium deficiency can lead to developmental problems and early bone disorders, especially among growing adults. Dairy is one of the richest sources of this nutrient, usually found in milk, cream, cheese, and yogurt. If someone is lactose intolerant, calcium can be alternatively sourced from fortified soy, almond, and coconut milk. Greens like kale, broccoli, okra, and Chinese cabbage are excellent options for vegetarians. Even seafood like salmon, sardines, pilchards, and even fortified bread, cereals, and snacks can provide for the daily requirement. Vitamin D-rich foods Vitamin D is the main component that lets the body absorb all the calcium from daily foods. Any deficiency of this nutrient can trigger bone mineral loss. Fortified juices, breakfast cereals, and soya drinks are suitable options for vegetarians and vegans.

Indoor air pollution is a growing problem in American households. Excessive clutter, poor cleaning hygiene, and lack of ventilation are all factors that can affect air quality. Dust, microscopic spores released from the mold, pet dander, and even chemical gases are some of the major allergens that can compromise healthy living. But worry not as the following simple lifestyle changes and preventive maintenance ideas can quickly turn things around indoors to improve breathable air quality. Change filters and install air purifiers Air conditioners filter out most of the pollutants before cooling and recycling the air indoors. You must regularly change the filters and get the appliance serviced to enhance efficiency. It is also advisable to use a good quality air purifier with high-efficiency particulate absorbing or HEPA filters. HEPA eliminates nearly 99% of the pollutants in the air, including common VOCs, smoke, carbon dioxide, spores released by molds, and even pet dander, among common allergens. These appliances help improve air quality and make the environment more breathable for anybody suffering from respiratory disorders. Proper ventilation The air quality indoors cannot be improved without proper ventilation. Open the windows and doors in each bedroom at least once a day to allow fresh air to flow freely.

Eczema is an umbrella term that describes a group of skin disorders that can lead to dermatitis or inflammation of the skin. Individuals suffering from eczema often experience redness of the skin and itching. This is because eczema damages the protective skin barrier and makes the skin sensitive and more prone to infections and dryness. Read on to find out the effect of soap on the skin and how certain soaps can trigger eczema. The relationship between soap and eczema Soaps are a great cleaning tool, but if you do not use the right one, they can cause damage to the skin. This is because most soaps and detergents eliminate the natural oils of the skin. This can make the skin itchy, red, and more sensitive to external irritants. Many soaps also contain irritants that can worsen preexisting skin conditions like eczema. Here are some common soaps that could trigger eczema. Soaps that have surfactants Surfactants, also known as surface-active agents, are key ingredients in many soaps. But studies have shown that surfactants can actually have an adverse effect on the skin. In fact, it contributes to unhealthy skin by increasing oxidative stress and increasing redness and dryness. Soaps with strong cleaners Another type of soap that could trigger or worsen eczema is a soap that contains harsh cleansing agents.

Arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children. However, it is increasingly common in aged individuals. It causes stiffness and painful aches in the joints and muscles of the body. There is a lot of confusion about arthritis, from its causes to ways to manage the condition, but even more so related to what foods are good or bad for it. This article busts some common food-related myths surrounding arthritis. Top food myths concerning arthritis you should not believe Tomatoes can be harmful Tomatoes were previously believed to be poisonous and often associated with making arthritis worse. The myth originated because tomatoes contain solanine, a naturally produced toxin that is believed to cause inflammation, swelling, and joint pain. But there is no medical evidence of tomatoes proving to be harmful to arthritis patients. Vegetables in the same family, such as eggplants and potatoes, are also safe to eat. Citrus aggravates inflammation There is a lot of misinformation on the internet that warns arthritis patients to stay away from citrus fruits because they aggravate inflammation. This is not true. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which helps manage arthritis pain and protects against free radicals, which could damage the cartilage, flaring inflammation.