Early signs of muscular dystrophy and ways to manage them

Early signs of muscular dystrophy and ways to manage them

Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic disorders that cause progressive muscle weakening and degeneration. While these conditions can manifest differently, there are several common early warning signs that individuals, parents, and caregivers should be aware of. Detecting these signs early can lead to prompt diagnosis and timely intervention. Early warning signs of muscular dystrophy Muscle weakness One of the earliest and most prevalent signs of muscular dystrophy is muscle weakness. It typically begins in the hips, pelvic area, thighs, or shoulders. Initially, the weakness may be subtle and attributed to fatigue or normal aging, but it gradually worsens over time. Difficulty with mobility Individuals with muscular dystrophy may experience difficulty with mobility, such as getting up from a seated position, climbing stairs, or walking. Children may struggle to keep up with their peers in physical activities. Frequent falls Frequent falls, especially in children, can be indicative of muscular dystrophy. Weakness in the leg muscles can cause stumbling or loss of balance, increasing the risk of accidents. Muscle cramps and pain Muscle cramps and pain are common early symptoms. These can occur during or after physical activity and may be mistaken for ordinary muscle discomfort. Delayed motor milestones In children, delayed motor milestones, such as crawling, walking, or standing, can be an early sign.
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7 essential steps to prevent pressure sores for bedridden patients

7 essential steps to prevent pressure sores for bedridden patients

Pressure sores, also known as bedsores or pressure ulcers, are painful and potentially dangerous skin lesions that can develop when there is prolonged pressure on the skin and underlying tissues. Bedridden patients, especially those with limited mobility, are at a higher risk of developing pressure sores. These sores can lead to serious complications, including infection and tissue damage. Keep reading to learn more about the preventive measures bedridden patients can take to prevent pressure sores. Frequent Repositioning One of the most crucial steps in preventing pressure sores is to change positions regularly. Bedridden patients should aim to reposition themselves every 2 hours, shifting their weight to relieve pressure on specific areas of the body. Caregivers can assist with this process by using pillows or cushions to support different body parts and by gently moving the patient to prevent constant pressure on the same area. Further, if needed, one can buy hospital beds for home use. Regardless, repositioning helps improve blood circulation, reducing the risk of pressure sore development. Maintain Good Skin Hygiene Proper skin care is vital for preventing pressure sores, especially for bedridden patients who should be kept clean and dry at all times. Regularly cleaning the skin with a mild soap and warm water is recommended.
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6 adverse effects of implants on teeth

6 adverse effects of implants on teeth

Dental implants have revolutionized modern dentistry by providing a viable solution for individuals with missing teeth. They provide several advantages, including better functionality and aesthetics. However, while dental implants are generally considered a safe and effective treatment, they are not without their side effects, especially when not properly cared for or when certain complications arise. Here are some of the adverse effects of dental implants on teeth and the importance of vigilant maintenance. Peri-implantitis Peri-implantitis is a common complication associated with dental implants that can negatively impact surrounding teeth. It is similar to periodontitis, a gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Peri-implantitis occurs when the tissues surrounding the implant become inflamed and infected. This condition can result in bone loss around the implant, ultimately compromising its stability. The adverse effects of peri-implantitis extend beyond the implant itself, as the infection can spread to nearby natural teeth. This can lead to tooth mobility, increased sensitivity, and eventually tooth loss. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals with dental implants to maintain excellent oral hygiene and undergo regular check-ups to detect peri-implantitis in its early stages. Implant failure Implant failure is a significant concern for those who opt for dental implants.
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9 foods that may worsen halitosis

9 foods that may worsen halitosis

Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a condition that can be embarrassing and socially uncomfortable. Various factors can cause it; one significant contributor is the foods one consumes. Many foods and beverages contain compounds released upon chewing and broken down by saliva. This article explores the foods that can worsen halitosis and the reasons behind their impact on breath odor, where the severity of bad breath varies accordingly. Onions and garlic Onions and garlic, from the allium family of vegetables, are notorious for causing bad breath. These root veggies contain sulfur compounds that get absorbed into the bloodstream and are exhaled through the lungs. These potent compounds create an unpleasant odor that can linger for hours or even days after consumption. Dairy products Many daily use dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can lead to bad breath for some people. This happens due to a food and beverage allergy called lactose intolerance that can cause an increase in bacteria in the mouth, producing foul-smelling compounds. Spicy foods Spicy foods, such as peppers and curry, can worsen bad breath. Spice stimulates gastric acid production, leading to acid reflux, regurgitating the stomach’s contents up the esophagus due to a faulty sphincter.
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Hemophilia – 5 foods to avoid

Hemophilia – 5 foods to avoid

Hemophilia is a rare but severe bleeding disorder that affects individuals’ ability to clot blood properly. Managing hemophilia requires meticulous attention to various aspects of daily life, including food choices. Some foods can be problematic for hemophilia patients, as they can exacerbate the condition and increase discomfort. Hence, patients must be vigilant about their food choices. This article sheds light on the foods that can worsen hemophilia: 1. Bread Bread is a staple across various households and is considered a breakfast favorite. However, it can pose a risk to hemophilia patients due to its vitamin K content. Vitamin K plays a pivotal role in blood clotting, which is already impaired in individuals with hemophilia. High levels of vitamin K can promote clotting, potentially exacerbating bleeding issues in these patients. While it’s not necessary to eliminate bread entirely, it is essential to moderate its consumption. Hence, one can consider whole-grain options to enjoy other nutritional benefits. 2. Cheese Cheese, especially aged varieties, is another food that hemophilia patients should consume in moderation. Similar to bread, cheese contains significant amounts of vitamin K, which can interfere with clotting. Hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and gouda typically contain more vitamin K than softer varieties.
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9 warning signs of liver cancer

9 warning signs of liver cancer

Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma, is a severe and potentially life-threatening ailment that can be hard to spot early on. The liver helps filter toxins from the body and supports digestion. These functions can get compromised when diagnosed with cancer. Timely detection of liver cancer is crucial for management. This post explores the signs and symptoms of the condition. Those who experience these indicators should consult a healthcare provider without delay. Abdominal pain and discomfort Persistent abdominal pain and discomfort are common symptoms of liver cancer. Patients often describe a dull ache or a feeling of fullness in the upper right side of the abdomen. This discomfort can result from the tumor pressing against surrounding organs or causing inflammation in the liver. Jaundice Jaundice, characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, is a visible sign of liver cancer. Liver tumors can obstruct the bile ducts, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made during the breakdown of red blood cells, and when it accumulates, it causes the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Fatigue and weakness Liver cancer can cause fatigue and weakness that do not go away even with rest.
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Top 4 reasons for unnatural hair loss patterns

Top 4 reasons for unnatural hair loss patterns

Hair loss is a natural process that automatically gets rid of old tissue and hair to promote new growth. So don’t be alarmed when you do find a few strands of hair tangled in your comb. However, a clearly visible scalp and a receding hairline are indicative of developing the problem of permanent hair loss. There are several internal and external factors that can accelerate hair fall, leading to pattern baldness in both men and women. Here are the top four reasons that trigger unnatural hair fall. Stress Stress ranks among the top risk factors associated with many medical conditions. In fact, one way or the other, taking physical or psychological stress harms the body more than you can imagine. For hair loss, especially, excessive shedding starts right after the body undergoes physical or psychological distress. A few examples include experiencing high fever, blood loss due to accident or injury, or even post-surgery recovery can result in stress that causes hair loss. Stress, coupled with anxiety, results in accelerated hair loss. To cope with this problem and reduce its effects, stress management is of crucial importance. Hormonal changes Men and women both experience hormonal changes throughout their lifetime. However, an imbalance associated with various conditions can trigger hair loss.
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Learn about these 3 types of hearing loss

Learn about these 3 types of hearing loss

Hearing loss, deafness, or impairment is the partial or total inability to hear sounds. People with low to moderate hearing impairment face challenges in understanding what the other person is saying in a noisy environment. Whereas, people with severe deafness cannot hear anything, and rely completely on lip-reading and sign language skills. There are three main types of hearing loss: sensorineural, conductive, and a combination of both. Let’s understand these types in detail and learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of each type. Sensorineural hearing loss It’s the most common type of hearing loss. Sensorineural is permanent hearing loss often caused by damage to the tiny hair cells that line the inner ear or the auditory nerve. The damage stops or weakens the transfers of nerve signals to the brain. These signals are essentially the intensity and clarity of sounds. Causes: Aging and exposure to loud noises for a long period of time are the most common cause of the damage. Certain medications and illnesses can also increase risks. It can even be genetic, and pass on to the child in the mother’s womb. Treatment: There is no medical or surgical treatment available to repair the tiny hair cells once they’re damaged.
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Simple lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of heart diseases

Simple lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of heart diseases

The heart is the most crucial organ in the body and as the system will cease to function if the heart stops or loses momentum pumping fresh oxygenated blood. This is why it is vital to not neglect your heart health at all and responsibly maintain a healthy, stress-free, and more importantly, a happy lifestyle. Here are a few simple lifestyle changes that will help support a healthy heart function. Switch to a healthy diet Avoid eating foods that are rich in trans and saturated fats. Most foods you find on the shelves of the supermarket contain large quantities of one or the other. Instead, switch to low-fat high fiber alternatives to help manage cholesterol. Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level in the body automatically reduces the risk of heart diseases. The simple reason for this is that fats that normally block major arteries and blood vessels are eliminated from these foods choices. It is also advisable to limit the salt (sodium) intake to control blood pressure and sugar to reduce the risk of diabetes simultaneously. Change certain lifestyle habits Reduce the number of alcoholic or carbonated drinks you have regularly. For men, it is advisable to have not more than two drinks and day and women must have only one.
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How to distinguish between heartburn and GERD

How to distinguish between heartburn and GERD

Heartburn is an unpleasant, burning sensation in the chest that is more common than a lot of individuals realize. Pregnant women, older men, and even young adults experience it frequently. Despite it being such a prevalent experience, not many know that heartburn has actually nothing to do with the heart and everything to do with the stomach and the esophagus. Unsurprisingly enough, heartburn is also used interchangeably with GERD. But, before we get to deciphering heartburn and GERD, let’s understand what acid reflux is. What is acid reflux or GER? Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter or LES becomes weak, allowing the contents of the stomach to travel in the wrong direction, back up the esophagus. Acid reflux is also called GER or gastroesophageal reflux as it involves the stomach and esophagus. This condition can usually be resolved with over-the-counter medication. What is heartburn? Heartburn is a burning or painful sensation that is experienced in the chest. Since the lining of the esophagus is not as strong as the lining of the stomach, the acid from the stomach can cause a burning sensation in the chest. This pain or burning sensation that is heartburn can often be misconstrued for a heart attack.
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