Unveiling the silent killer – Symptoms of hypertension

Unveiling the silent killer – Symptoms of hypertension

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a condition in which the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and rests between beats is higher than the normal range (120 over 80). This changes according to the activities one does throughout the day. Hypertension is known as a silent killer because its symptoms usually go unnoticed until it gets to an advanced stage. Here are some signs and symptoms one should watch out for before it gets too late. Headaches It is normal to get headaches, but if you have persistent and throbbing pain, it may be a sign of hypertension. This is especially noticed when you wake up in the morning. Dizziness One could feel dizzy for several reasons, and hypertension should not be ruled out as the illness causing this symptom. Some people may even experience fainting due to high blood pressure. So be aware of any changes in your body’s normal functions. Blurred vision The eyes contain many tiny blood vessels, which, when subjected to high blood pressure, may lead to rupture of these vessels. It could lead to retinopathy or blood vessel damage. This lack of blood flow to the retina can lead to blurred vision or even loss of sight. Chest pain When one experiences high blood pressure, it can damage the arteries. The condition makes the arteries less elastic, leading to decreased blood and oxygen flow to the heart. This can increase the risk of developing heart diseases like angina, which causes chest pain. Shortness of breath The arteries carry oxygen to the lungs through the heart. When one experiences hypertension, the arteries do not contain enough oxygen to carry to the lungs. This can lead to shortness of breath even in regular everyday tasks. Fatigue and weakness Generally, a lack of energy is a warning sign of hypertension.
10 Early Signs of Arthritis that Require Immediate Attention

10 Early Signs of Arthritis that Require Immediate Attention

Most people think of arthritis as a single disease. However, it’s a term that refers to tenderness and swelling in one or more joints. Today, there are more than 100 types of arthritis that can affect people across all age groups. While the condition is not wholly limited to age factor, one can experience the worsening of symptoms as the years pass. Keep reading to learn more about the early signs of arthritis. Top 10 early signs of arthritis One can develop arthritis if the shock-absorbing cartilage near the bone doesn’t function properly. If left untreated, it can cause inflammation and difficulty continuing daily tasks. Hence, here are some early signs of arthritis to look out for. Pain One of the most common early signs of the condition is pain, also known as arthralgia. In most cases, it can be experienced either in dull pain or a burning sensation near the affected joints, which can be further aggravated by prolonged use of the area. For instance, when one climbs up a flight of stairs. Furthermore, some people even experience soreness in the joints in the mornings. Redness Sometimes, as the inflammation of the joints remains untreated, it can cause the area to have a red appearance. This happens due to the widening of blood vessels in the area, causing more blood to flow to the affected joint. In some cases, one may even notice further skin discoloration around the joints of the legs and hands. Swelling In cases where the patient’s pain worsens, it can lead to swelling in the area. One of the main reasons behind the swelling is the decreased presence of synovial fluid in the affected joint. Typically, this fluid acts as a lubricant or cushion, easing the movement. But when the amount of fluid decreases, the swelling can become increasingly painful, further restricting the patient’s movement and daily activities.
20 Black Friday Furniture Deals to Look Out For in 2023

20 Black Friday Furniture Deals to Look Out For in 2023

Black Friday is the perfect time to grab lucrative deals on some of the most popular furniture pieces. One can expect remarkable offers on furniture for every part of the house, from the patio to the kitchen. And some of them are often discounted up to 50% off or more. Here’s a breakdown of the past year’s offers to prepare one for the upcoming Black Friday 2023 and make one’s house festive-ready.  Living room Sofa beds Last year, substantial price cuts were observed on sofa beds. Prices were slashed by up to 60%. If similar bargains are rolled out this year, consumers can expect significant savings on this versatile and functional piece of living room furniture. Armchairs The price tag of armchairs can sometimes lean on the higher side all through the year. So, most shoppers wait around for the sale period. Last Black Friday, major brands dropped deals with savings ranging from 15% to 30%. Recliners These are perfect additions to a living room for those looking for furniture to relax during the holiday season and the rest of the year. Many major retailers slashed recliner prices by nearly 50% last year. Sofas This is a key furniture item that can make or break the vibe of an entire living room. Also, it is the most expensive piece of living room furniture. With up to 50% reductions offered almost every shopping season, Black Friday has always been a great chance to pick up the right sofa without breaking the bank. Coffee tables Buying a fancy coffee table may seem like an indulgence. But with significant discounts, shoppers have taken home the most luxurious pieces without burning a hole in their pockets. Dining room Dining tables Many major retailers, such as Home Depot, Lowe’s Wayfair, and Amazon, offered great deals on Black Friday last year.
Signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children

Signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a relatively rare, chronic condition that can affect children. It’s characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, often in response to allergens or other triggers. While EoE can be challenging to diagnose, recognizing early signs is essential for timely intervention and effective management. Here is a comprehensive guide to better understanding the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children, providing an understanding of this condition for parents and caregivers. What it is Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the esophagus, the tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach. In individuals with EoE, the esophageal tissue becomes infiltrated with eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in allergic reactions and immune responses. Eosinophils in the esophagus cause inflammation, leading to uncomfortable and potentially severe symptoms. While the exact cause of EoE remains unclear, it is believed to be related to genetic factors, environmental triggers, and allergies. Allergens such as pollen, certain foods, or airborne allergens may contribute to the development or exacerbation of EoE. Following are the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) One of the hallmark signs of EoE in children is difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia. Children with EoE may find moving food or even liquids down their esophagus challenging, leading to choking or gagging during meals. This can be a distressing experience for both the child and their parents. Parents and guardians must pay close attention if their child consistently struggles while eating, as dysphagia can significantly impact their nutritional intake and overall quality of life. Refusing certain foods Children may develop aversions to specific foods as a coping mechanism for the discomfort associated with EoE. They might refuse to eat certain textures or avoid foods they previously enjoyed. This food avoidance can be a sign that something is wrong and often serves as an early indicator of EoE.
10 Expected Flower and Gift Deals for Black Friday 2023

10 Expected Flower and Gift Deals for Black Friday 2023

For those looking to buy the perfect holiday gifts for loved ones, now is the right time, as many brands and stores will have sales for Black Friday closer to the weekend. To get an idea of what to expect this year, it is recommended to check some of the Black Friday deals from last year. One can also check the websites of famous brands to see if any sale dates have been announced yet. Flower deliveries 1. FTD usually announces their Black Friday deals on their website and discounts some popular flower bouquets and kits. Some products shoppers can expect to be on sale during Black Friday include the Fiesta Bouquet, which starts at $60, the Pumpkin spice succulent duo for $52, and the Sun-Kissed Gerbera Bouquet, which costs $55. 2. One could save 75 to 85% off the pre-mixed garden kits for Holland Bulb Farms’ Black Friday specials. They also had other offers on bulbs – 50 bulbs could be bought for only $12.50, including tulips and daffodils. The Amaryllis gift kits were up to 55% off for Black Friday, pre-potted amaryllis were for $15 each, and waxed amaryllis bulbs were 30 to 50% off. The care instructions for each flower detail are provided, so anyone needing clarification about how to proceed with their choice can read through them carefully and choose the best option. Additionally, they may update their offer page with new discounts and coupon codes for this year. 3. Flower Explosion delivers fresh produce from the farm directly and has exclusive discounts on Black Friday. They have different categories to explore, like wedding flowers, wholesale flowers, and fundraiser flowers, and some people can also get a subscription. Some of the available flowers they’ve had for Black Friday before include the Metallic Purple roses, Ember Noir, Heart of Gold Specialty Roses, Holiday Frosting roses, Snowy red roses, snowy blue roses, and even Jingle Bell Golden roses, all starting from the price of $79.98.
Huntington’s disease – Foods to avoid and eating habits to follow

Huntington’s disease – Foods to avoid and eating habits to follow

Huntington’s disease is a hereditary disease that causes the degeneration of brain cells. One of the main symptoms of this condition is uncontrollable jerky movements in the arms, legs, face, head, and upper body (called chorea). Other symptoms may also include a decline in thinking and reasoning skills, alterations in mood, and behavioral changes. This article explores how the condition impacts one’s eating and food management strategies to improve nutritional intake. How Huntington’s affects the body and food intake Chorea Huntington causes jerky, uncontrollable movements called chorea. This can use more energy, increasing one’s caloric needs. Difficulty in planning Huntington’s may cause short-term memory loss, making it difficult to plan meals in advance. This can also affect one’s food and nutrition. Clumsiness One may also experience stumbling and clumsiness. As a result, one may find it difficult to eat or drink, causing embarrassment among individuals with Huntington’s. Mood changes Cognitive changes with Huntington’s can cause depression and anxiety. This can cause changes in appetite, affecting one’s desire to eat. Muscular changes With Huntington’s, individuals may also have hand-eye coordination, eating, and posture issues. This can limit their ability to put food into their mouths, affecting their daily eating habits. Additionally, it can make it difficult to close the lips together, causing spillage. It may also cause food and drink to transfer too quickly or too slowly, affecting eating. Dysphagia Those with Huntington’s also commonly experience difficulty swallowing as a result of a loss of fine motor skills in the face and neck. This is called dysphagia. It can lead to an increased risk of choking, posing difficulty while eating and drinking. In the advanced stages of Huntington’s disease, one may also find it difficult to chew and swallow. As a result, doctors may recommend tube feeding. A percutaneous endoscopic gastroscopy (PEG) tube is often inserted.
8 mistakes every new hearing aid owner must avoid

8 mistakes every new hearing aid owner must avoid

While hearing is an indispensable sense that connects one with the world around, hearing loss is a largely prevalent issue that can significantly impact one’s life. About 2-3 out of every 1,000 children are born with diagnosable levels of hearing loss in one or both ears. Today, technological advancements have facilitated several interventions, including hearing aids, to enhance hearing. Here are some common mistakes that new hearing aid owners should avoid: Not controlling volume effectively It is essential to regulate the volume of one’s hearing aid, as excessive use can worsen hearing difficulties with time. Thus, it is important to know where the volume controls are located in the hearing aid and how the volume should be changed or adjusted. Overlooking the adjustment phase For individuals grappling with hearing loss over long periods, all sounds may be excessively loud upon putting on hearing aids. Such loudness may initially cause fatigue among new hearing-aid users. This phenomenon, called hearing-related fatigue, is quite typical. Unfortunately, many individuals quit using their hearing aids at this stage to avoid this fatigue. However, it is important to persevere during the adjustment phase, opting for strategies like regulating the volumes of one’s TV, radio, etc., wearing hearing aids for shorter periods initially, and not adjusting the hearing aid volume too frequently. Not maintaining the hearing aid Hearing aids should be maintained well to ensure their optimal functioning even with the passage of time. It is important to check and clean the hearing aid daily. Moreover, one should remove the batteries periodically and clean the battery contacts, removing dust particles with a clean cloth. Failing to check whether the hearing aid is water-resistant Today, many hearing aids are water-resistant and may be worn while showering, swimming, etc. However, hearing aids that are not waterproof may get damaged due to water exposure.
10 smartphone offers to look for on Cyber Monday 2022

10 smartphone offers to look for on Cyber Monday 2022

Looking to upgrade your existing phone? The upcoming Cyber Monday sales will help you get the best price. But with thousands of offers, how do you choose the right one? The best thing to do is research the different brands and look at last year’s deals to get an idea of what is to come. Here are the top ten smartphone offers to expect during the shopping season in 2022. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 This phone comes with a Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ and a 7.6-inch AMOLED 2X screen. It has 12 GB of RAM, a 120 Hz refresh rate, and a Snapdragon® 8+ processor. You might get the Fold4 for $899 instead of the original price of $1,799 this Cyber Monday. Google Pixel 6 Pro This completely rehashed Google Pixel phone is one of the smartest from the Google stable. It has the Google Tensor processor and a great camera to capture your precious moments. The Pixel 6 Pro might be available at a discount of $200 during the year-end sale. OnePlus 9 5G One of the best options on the market, the OnePlus 9 5G comes with a triple rear camera (main, ultra-wide, and monochrome) setup co-developed by Hasselblad. It has a Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 888 Processor and a 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED display. On this sale day, you may save almost $130. Moto 2022 G Power This mobile has a 6.5-inch HD+ display, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a wide and fluid screen, perfect for hours of gaming and streaming. Further, it has a fast processor, efficient HyperEngine technology, a 50 MP camera system, around three days of battery life, 64 GB storage, and face recognition. On Cyber Monday, you could get 15% off on it. Sony Xperia PRO 5G The Xperia PRO 5G comes with 512 GB storage, a 6.5-inch HDR OLED display, 12 GB RAM, and an 8 MP front and 12 MP rear camera.
7 human foods that cats can enjoy

7 human foods that cats can enjoy

Pet owners are extremely protective of their fur babies. They want to ensure that their pets get the best of care and, most importantly, food. Most often, one gets tempted to share the food from the plates with them. But, not all the food we consume is safe for our pet cats. This makes it important to stay informed on the food items that are safe or harmful for cats. Read on to learn more. Whole grain and whole grain foods You can also share whole grain products like brown side, oatmeal, and more with your cat in moderate quantities. Whole grains are nutritionally dense and contain iron, fiber, vitamins, and tons of minerals that can boost your cat’s health. The fiber content can help improve digestive health, while vitamins and minerals can help make their coat healthy and shiny. Cheese Cats across the globe share an intense love for all things dairy. Not only will they enjoy a bowl of fresh milk, but they also love other dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and even butter. When they are born, cats rely on their mother’s milk to survive for the first two to three months. But, as they grow, cats, much like many humans, tend to develop an intolerance for lactose, a protein that is found in milk and milk products. So, if your cat can digest milk and other dairy products without an upset tummy, you could consider giving them small amounts of cheese and even milk. They are rich in calcium and have a high level of protein. Cheese also makes for a great way to provide your pet cat with oral treatments. Poultry Cats are carnivorous animals and enjoy foods such as chicken, beef, and other animal products. As a matter of fact, meat is their natural choice of food for cats.
Top 10 Black Friday laptop offers to expect in 2022

Top 10 Black Friday laptop offers to expect in 2022

In recent years, laptops and tablets have been among the best-selling gadgets on Black Friday. Online shopping is typically less expensive and allows you access to a wider range of laptops with different features. You can also easily compare deals and discounts to ensure that you are getting the most savings. Here’s a look at laptop deals that were available last year to help you determine what you can expect this year. Alienware X15 R1 Gamers can take advantage of the nearly $1,000 discount that could be available on the Alienware X5 R1 this Black Friday. This laptop has a stylish appearance, a lighted keyboard, and a variety of connectors. Additionally, it can easily handle current games thanks to its Intel Core i7-11800H (eight cores) processor. The 15.6-inch display features a 1920 x 1080 resolution and an absurdly fast refresh rate of 360Hz. Acer Swift 3 The laptop comes with an Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor, up to 4.7GHz, and 12MB Intel Smart. It delivers outstanding performance, responsiveness, and has a long battery life. This laptop one can operate the best because it has 256GB of NVMe SSD storage and 8GB of onboard LPDDR4X memory. You can grab this laptop Black Friday at a decent bargain. Lenovo Ideapad 3i With an Intel i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, the laptop offers outstanding value. It’s excellent for anyone looking for a powerful device with a more portable 14-inch screen. You can get this laptop at a $260 discount on its original price this Black Friday. HP Pavilion An excellent laptop that works the best to complete productivity tasks such as using Excel or taking part in conference calls is the HP Pavilion. An AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor, AMD Radeon integrated graphics, 8GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage are its features.
Avoid These 5 Things to Improve Sleep Quality

Avoid These 5 Things to Improve Sleep Quality

A good night’s sleep is as important as following a balanced meal plan and exercising regularly. Poor sleeping habits have an adverse effect on your hormones and the functioning of the brain. It can interfere with your cognitive functions as well as physical health. Tossing and turning every night causes sleep disturbance. There are many reasons for this, including poor sleep hygiene. Therefore, you need to follow a proper sleep routine to maintain your health.  Here are a few things that you should avoid for a healthy sleep cycle. Avoid making poor food choices before bedtime Don’t overeat or starve yourself before bedtime. It is best to avoid having a heavy meal three hours before bedtime. Overeating can trigger  heartburn , and this can cause delays in falling asleep. Also, try to avoid caffeine-based products as they have stimulating effects on your body, which may further interfere with your sleep. They will initially make you feel drowsy but later disrupt your sleep cycle. It is also said that such beverages can increase the symptoms of snoring, sleep apnea, and disrupted sleep patterns. Also, harmful substances can reduce the production of melatonin during night-time, leading to sleep deprivation. Late night binges on greasy, processed foods like pizza, and burgers may also affect your sleep.  Cut down on daytime naps Napping at the wrong time of day may be harmful if you habitually do it. Also, napping should be an hour at maximum. When you have a late-night work schedule, you might take a nap to make up for your sleep debt. Short power naps are important to keep yourself active throughout the day, but long and irregular naps can negatively affect your sleep cycle. By sleeping during the daytime, your body clock gets confused, causing you to struggle to sleep at night.  Don’t overheat the bedroom The temperature of your room plays an important role in maintaining your sleep cycle.
Causes, symptoms, and management options for hearing loss

Causes, symptoms, and management options for hearing loss

Millions of people in the world are impacted by hearing loss. It is a prevalent condition with a handful of causes. Understanding the condition’s complexities is essential for early detection, intervention, and symptom management. It is important to learn about the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and management options. By staying informed and seeking professional help, individuals with hearing loss can have a better quality of life, improve communication abilities, and ensure long-term hearing health. Causes of hearing loss There are various factors that can result in hearing loss. It could be a genetic predisposition. It could also be a result of aging, trauma, infections, certain prescriptions, or other underlying conditions. Genetic factors For some people, hearing loss can be inherited from parents that carry the same genetic mutations. It can affect the person’s functioning or the development of their auditory system. These genetic factors can contribute to congenital hearing loss, which is present at birth, or progressive hearing loss, which manifests later in life. Constant exposure to loud noises Excessive noise or being exposed to loud noises constantly can impact a person’s hearing capability. This could include repeated or prolonged exposure to machinery, explosions, and loud music. Such noises can damage the inner ear, which is quite delicate. This type of hearing loss, known as noise-induced hearing loss, is preventable by using hearing protection and practicing safe listening habits. Aging Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is a common occurrence as we grow older. It typically involves the gradual loss of hearing due to the natural aging process, affecting the ability to hear high-frequency sounds and discern speech clearly. Infections and diseases Infections like otitis media, an infection of the middle ear, or meningitis can impact an individual’s hearing capability. The loss is probably going to be substantial if the infection is not treated on time.