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9 relaxation techniques to alleviate headaches

9 relaxation techniques to alleviate headaches
Most individuals experience headaches at some point in their lives. The condition can result in a pain that could be dull, sharp, constant, or throbbing. Also, there are different types of headaches that have multiple symptoms. While a permanent cure for headaches is yet to be determined, there are ways to help manage the condition. One can also combine these relaxation techniques with treatments to relieve headaches. Given below are a few that might help: Indulge in yoga Yoga is an ancient technique that combines calming meditation and breathing with body poses. Together, these aspects help individuals stretch and strengthen their tendons and muscles. Yoga can also reduce the frequency and pain of certain headaches. However, we recommend working with a professional yoga instructor to avoid unwanted muscle strains. Use a cold pack People suffering from migraines should apply a cold pack to their forehead. They can wrap a bag of frozen vegetables or ice cubes in a towel or have a cold shower to ease pains caused by migraines. They should keep the compress on their head for about 15 minutes, followed by an interval of 15 minutes before re-applying the pack. Be open to biofeedback The biofeedback technique utilizes electronic devices to measure an individual’s heart rate, breathing rate, skin perspiration, muscle tension, and other physical responses.

7 foods one should avoid before bedtime

7 foods one should avoid before bedtime
Finding it hard to sleep at night? Staying away from your phone and reducing psychological stress can help, but these are not enough. You also need to be wise when choosing foods late in the evening and before bedtime. Some foods have ingredients that can induce insomnia and cause tummy troubles, making it hard to sleep well at night. Below, we’ve listed seven such foods you should avoid eating before hitting the sack. Chocolate Post-dinner chocolate cravings are pretty common, but it’s not good when struggling to get proper sleep. Chocolates, especially dark chocolate, contain lots of caffeine, which can prevent you from getting deep, restful sleep. Coffee Talking about caffeine, it’s hard not to mention coffee. A shot of espresso is a go-to late-night drink for many, but it can hurt your objective of sound sleep. Coffee contains very high levels of caffeine, more than dark chocolate. So, it’s best to avoid any type of coffee at least six hours before bedtime. Potato chips Potato chips are fried foods loaded with unhealthy fats. Such foods take long to digest, cause indigestion, and can keep you up at night. Some studies even show that eating lots of fried, greasy foods can cause disturbing dreams.

5 uncommon ADHD symptoms seen in children

5 uncommon ADHD symptoms seen in children
ADHD, also called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is one of the most common neurodevelopment disorders in children. Most ADHD cases are diagnosed between the ages of three and seven. Albeit rare, the condition may also be diagnosed in adulthood. Its symptoms usually improve with age, but individuals may continue to face sleep and anxiety issues for a prolonged period. Read on to learn some of the uncommon symptoms of ADHD that are seen in children. 5 lesser-known ADHD symptoms observed in children Hyper-focus Individuals with ADHD, irrespective of age, are believed to have trouble focusing on tasks. But, what many do not know is that ADHD patients tend to hyper-focus. This means that they can focus only on a single task for periods of time. In such states of razor focus and concentration, it can be hard for the child to move from one task to the other. They may also lose track of time and forget about other important tasks. Mood swings Mood swings are commonly seen in children and adolescents. Massive and disruptive changes in mood (mania and depression) are often associated with bipolar disorder, but mood changes in ADHD are different. Essentially, ADHD patients have a trigger that causes a shift in moods, such as a reaction to their work or interests, whereas, for bipolar disorder, a mood shift occurs without a trigger.

6 warning signs that indicate osteoporosis development

6 warning signs that indicate osteoporosis development
Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens bones, turning them brittle and porous. It is often characterized by the presence of painful muscles and joints. Losing bone mass can also make one more susceptible to fractures. Fortunately, proper symptom management can help provide the person with a healthy lifestyle. However, to do so, it is crucial to be aware of the common symptoms and early warning signs of the condition and seek a timely diagnosis. Postural changes Changes in posture are among the common signs of osteoporosis. Patients often have poor spinal curvature and stoop when sitting. The loss of bone density in the body is a substantial contributing factor and results in weakened bones in the spinal cord. It also impacts the patient’s breathing due to compressed lungs. Change in height Shrinking with age is common. However, that is a change of an inch or two in the individual’s height. Whereas, the shrinkage of height in case of osteoporosis spans several inches and occurs in a shorter time. The height change is a result of bone loss in the vertebrae. Therefore, it is a must to seek timely checkup if the height changes. Brittle fingernails It might not seem like a significant issue, but brittle fingernails susceptible to breakage are a warning sign of osteoporosis, as it provides a peek at the internal health of a patient.

Top 10 Cyber Monday 2022 deals on gaming consoles

Top 10 Cyber Monday 2022 deals on gaming consoles
Gamers have a lot to celebrate this Cyber Monday as many consoles, games, and gaming gear will be part of giveaways and huge deals. So, this is the best time to check out your favorite games and get the best discounts on popular bundles. Whether you are a PS5 fan or an Xbox gamer, here are the 10 best deals on gaming consoles you should check out this Cyber Monday. 1. Microsoft Xbox Series X with Star Wars Bundle Microsoft Xbox One X is the most powerful console ever and is the only console that plays all your games in 4K Ultra HD. This console has the most advanced graphics chip ever, and you can get it at a discount on the bundle this Cyber Monday. 2. Nintendo Switch with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle This is a hybrid video game console developed by Nintendo. It is the eighth central home video game console developed by Nintendo and the first to be designed for handheld use. You can get discounts on Nintendo games and accessories this Cyber Monday. 3. Sony PlayStation 4 Pro with Call Of Duty Black Ops 4 Bundle The PlayStation 4 Pro is one of the most powerful consoles, and it packs a quad-core AMD processor and 8GB of GDDR5 RAM into its slim frame.

Check out these 20 Cyber Monday appliances sales

Check out these 20 Cyber Monday appliances sales
Cyber Monday is the best time of the year to grab the greatest deals on electronic gadgets. Buying refrigerators, microwaves, ovens, washers, and dryers is a significant commitment, though every house needs all these appliances. Cyber Monday sales can help reduce the burden on your bank account. However, finding these deals can be an arduous task. Check out the following retailers and marketplaces offering some amazing deals on household appliances this Cyber Monday sale. Amazon This 28th November, log on to Amazon to enjoy savings from the Cyber Monday sales. Last year, patrons got up to 14% off on all kinds of appliances, from blenders to juicers to Echo Dots and Alexa remotes, for an entire week leading up to Cyber Monday. Wayfair From kitchen to laundry to comfort appliances, Wayfair offers a wide range of products apart from the furniture and decor they are known for. Cyber Week 2021 saw sales of up to 70%, which is expected in 2022 as well. Remember to make use of the rewards offered through their credit cards. Walmart Most people default to Walmart while buying things, and why should appliances be any different? 2021 saw $200 discounts on Dyson vacuums and up to 60% off on cookware and kitchen appliances like fryers and ovens.

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4 common myths about diabetes debunked

When the glucose levels in the body are high and insulin levels are not proportionate enough to convert this glucose into energy, the risk of diabetes increases. It is basically the inability of the body to convert food into energy using insulin. The glucose is broken down into energy for cells to absorb and when this conversion doesn’t take place, blood sugar levels rise. If left unchecked, it can lead to a number of complications. However, there are certain myths about diabetes that can create confusion among the masses. Here is what you must know and understand about the condition. Myth 1: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same. The fact of the matter is that both type 1 and 2 are linked to insulin deficiency that causes diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce any insulin, and people suffering from this condition must rely on regular doses of insulin to supplement these requirements. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disorder that is mostly diagnosed in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body still manages to produce insulin but the cells are unable to absorb the compound necessary for converting food into energy. Depending on the severity of the condition, people suffering from type 2 diabetes may or may not need insulin shots. Myth 2: Insulin dependence Nothing can be further from the truth that insulin is a lifesaving medication and absolutely necessary for people suffering from severe diabetes. The body cannot convert food into energy without insulin. How the supply is replenished does not matter as there is a need for the deficiency to be managed better. People with type 2 diabetes can still manage a healthy lifestyle and reduce their dependence on insulin to a great extent. However, it is a mandatory medication for those who have type 1 diabetes.

The risk factors associated with dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of fluids from one’s body. It can be caused due to something as simple as not having an adequate water intake or perhaps a severe medical side effect. The symptoms of fluid loss caused due to this condition can affect people of all ages. From toddlers and infants to older adults, one can experience mild to severe dehydration depending on the primary cause of the same. Herein, we shall try and understand the severity and risk factors associated with dehydration in people of different ages. Children and infants At a very young age, infants and children are more susceptible to bacterial infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Both result in the rapid loss of fluids. Note that infants lose more fluids in comparison to adults. Young children, especially toddlers, unlike adults, may also not realize when they are thirsty. This increases the risk of staying dehydrated unknowingly until severe symptoms indicate the same. It is one of the main reasons why doctors prescribe electrolyte-rich fluids for children experiencing a high fever to help replenish the lost fluids. Seniors and older adults Adults after a certain age face more difficulties as the body gradually loses its ability to conserve water. One’s sense of thirst also becomes acute with old age, which further increases the risk. Individuals might not feel thirsty enough to have the recommended intake of water every day, further causing problems due to the loss of fluids. Furthermore, dehydration can be a direct result of certain prescription medications used for treating diabetes. The side effects can result in a fluid imbalance as medications increase the urine output, thus resulting in a higher loss of fluids from the body. Many medications also list vomiting and diarrhea as potential side effects and both can trigger a severe loss of fluids in the body.

Must-have nutrients and foods for optimal eye health

Our sensory organs are extremely essential in our daily life. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to stand straight, see things, taste, communicate, and live the way we do. But the power of sight is one of the most important of them all. Maintaining good eye health is necessary, and, unsurprisingly, making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices is crucial for this. So, here are a few nutrients you should add to your daily diet to keep your vision in top-notch condition: Vitamin A The deficiency of vitamin A is one of the most common causes of blindness across the globe. Why is this vitamin so important? Well, for starters, it helps manage and maintain the light-sensing cells in your eyes. A lack of vitamin A can cause dry eyes and other serious eye conditions. Best food with vitamin A content: To get the right amount of vitamin A in your diet and maintain optimal eye health, include foods like apricots, carrots, spinach, and yam in your diet in plenty. Vitamin C Vitamin C is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor (the liquid in the outermost part of the eye). The amount of this vitamin in the aqueous humor is proportional to the amount in your diet, and research has proved that people with cataracts tend to have low amounts of vitamin C in their bodies. Best dietary sources of vitamin C: Citrus fruits like oranges, kiwi, lime, and strawberries are all great sources of vitamin C. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts are also healthy sources of this vitamin. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are essential to maintain good eye health. DHA aids eye function. It is present in the retina and is an integral part of brain and eye development in children. Evidence also proves the benefits of omega-3 supplements for people with dry eyes.

Understanding the different aspects of a flu outbreak

Flu or influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can result in mild to severe illness and health complications. A severe flu infection can result in hospitalization and can even prove to be fatal, especially in young children, older people aged above 65, and people with underlying health conditions. There are two main types of flu viruses: Type A and Type B virus. The illness can be periodical and result in seasonal flu epidemics each year. The cold, flu, and its symptoms such as cough is caused due to the type of the viruses mentioned above. Influenza may not always be considered by most people as a serious illness, its symptoms comprising a runny nose, headaches, cough, and muscle pain can be confused with those of a heavy cold. Yet reports suggest that seasonal influenza can claim up to 650,000 lives every year. That is why influenza vaccinations are important because they protect people, especially those in at-risk categories, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with vulnerable immune systems or underlying health conditions. What most of us call “the flu” is essentially seasonal influenza because it comes around in the coldest season twice a year, once in the Northern hemisphere’s winter, and once in the Southern hemisphere’s winter in temperate zones of the world. The flu circulates year-round in the tropics and subtropics, which makes it more contagious. The worst part about the influenza virus is that it constantly mutates, enabling it to evade the mechanisms of our immune systems. The virus learns from the responses of the human body and creates a suitable defensive mechanism to survive the attack by the immune system. When a new virus emerges, it can easily infect people and spread due to its contagiousness. Very little to no immunity to a new strain can lead to a simple outbreak becoming an epidemic or a pandemic within no time.

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9 most common types of depression you should know about

9 most common types of depression you should know about

All of us feel low, upset, and unmotivated at some point in our life, but this isn’t classified as depression. Depression is a mood disorder that overshadows a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Signs and symptoms of this grave disorder can range from feeling hopeless and tired to completely losing the will to live. There are several types of depression and they are listed below so you can understand depression and people suffering from it better. Major Depression (Clinical Depression) The hallmark trait of this type of depression is the constant feeling of sadness or loss of interest in social life or any outside stimuli. It often lasts for two weeks or more in which a person can experience symptoms such as hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder) Dysthymia lasts for years and can disrupt daily life and interfere with personal and professional relationships. Individuals with dysthymia are often seen as dark, pessimistic, or complainers by others, and they have a hard time being happy in typically pleasant situations. Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder) People with manic depression experience high degrees of mood swings. Their train of thought can take them from feeling euphoric to feeling suicidal in just a few weeks. It is very common to get into a depressive state before or after the manic episode. Postpartum Depression (Peripartum Depression) This depression episode is characterized by dramatic hormonal changes in women after giving birth. They may tend to experience bouts of sadness and cry anytime. The symptoms usually alleviate after a week or two of giving birth. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) People with this type of depression start experiencing depressive symptoms with a change in seasons. For many, it happens during winter. The individual starts feeling worse as the season progresses and can even have suicidal thoughts.
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Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Pregnancy is a new experience in every couple’s life, and one should understand a few things to ensure that the nine months are smooth and stress-free. Simply being prepared for pregnancy and looking forward to the joy of parenthood is not all there’s to childbirth. As a couple, you must understand, review, and adjust your lifestyle. Expecting mothers become their child’s nurturers and supporters from day one, but the expecting fathers, close relatives, and friends must also understand the key roles they will play right up to the due date. Here are a few simple family and pregnancy guide points to help you and your folks get started: Staying healthy Physical and mental wellbeing is extremely crucial for the expecting mother to ensure both her and the baby’s health. Diet plays a crucial role in this process, as the mother is now providing nutrition for the developing fetus as well as herself. As a family, you can take turns to ensure that the to-be mother is staying physically active, eating healthy and regularly, and not cultivating any bad habits. More importantly, family and loved ones should be prepared for the changes to come in the upcoming trimesters. Coping with changes – what to expect Morning sickness in the first trimester is quite common and can put a woman’s body under tremendous stress. Nausea and vomiting may also cause headaches, but medications cannot always be taken, as they may affect the baby’s health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause extreme mood swings, so everyone around must be prepared to deal with this. Maintaining a healthy relationship with one’s partner and responding to their needs is crucial to ensure a healthy pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, when the baby starts developing quickly. Counseling One of the more crucial aspects of family and pregnancy planning is prenatal counseling.
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