A pet’s fur can be the perfect breeding ground for fleas and ticks. These pests can annoy your pet throughout the day. Such parasites can also cause several health problems like Lyme disease and skin infections in dogs and humans. Fortunately, pet care experts have developed several ways to rid these critters of your furry friend. Here are four handy tips that help with managing flea and tick infestations in dogs: Initiate a treatment plan If your pet develops a pest infestation, the first and foremost thing to do is get them on a treatment plan. Here are a few prescriptions that can be helpful: Bravecto® (Fluralaner) This prescription for dogs comes in two types: a chewable option or a topical solution. Bravecto is approved by the FDA and works on dogs and puppies at least six months of age who weigh at least 4.4 pounds. If you pick the chewable option for your pet, it must be given with their food once a month. Alternately, the topical solution must be applied once every 12 weeks. You can also check out special offers on Bravecto’s website for attractive discounts on their products. Simparica Another recommended treatment for fleas and ticks is the FDA-approved chewable from Simparica. This prescription kills Deer ticks and helps prevent infections that may cause Lyme disease. Such an option must be given to your pet once a month and has lasting effects for up to 35 days. It is suitable for dogs six months or older and weighing at least 2.8 pounds. Other than the Deer tick, Simparica helps kill the lone star, Gulf Coast, American dog, and brown dog ticks. Bayer K9 Advantix II Bayer’s K9 Advantix II is a topical solution for dogs made from a combination of imidacloprid, pyriproxyfen, and permethrin. The formula is effective in exterminating and preventing fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and lice.

Parkinson’s is a nervous system disorder that affects around seven to ten million people worldwide. It occurs due to damage to specific nerve cells in the brain. The condition inhibits movement and leads to symptoms like tremors, stiffness, balance problems, and slurred or soft speech. These emerge gradually and may not be noticeable at the start. While the disease has no cure, the following treatments, meal plans, lifestyle tips, and therapies help manage Parkinson’s symptoms: Treatment options Treatment is necessary to manage the condition and must be started immediately after diagnosis. The popular options are: RYTARY RYTARY helps manage Parkinson’s symptoms like difficulty moving, shakiness, and stiffness. It contains two compounds: carbidopa and levodopa. Levodopa increases the levels of dopamine in the brain, a hormone necessary for normal brain function. On the other hand, carbidopa prevents levodopa   breakdown. It also helps lower levodopa side effects ,  like vomiting and nausea. The dosage of RYTARY is usually thrice a day, but one must consult a doctor before using it. It should not be chewed or crushed but swallowed as a whole to lower the risks of side effects. ONGENTYS ONGENTYS is an oral treatment usually used once daily at bedtime or as the doctor recommends. It has a substance called opicapone that improves the effects of levodopa and allows the brain to get more of it. Healthcare professionals recommend a dosage according to the patient’s condition. One should not eat anything for an hour before and after the dose .  The side effects of opicapone include severe muscle stiffness, fever, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, and uncontrolled or unwanted movements. Those who experience these must contact a doctor immediately. Foods to eat and avoid There is no specific meal plan for Parkinson’s disease, but certain foods help manage the condition. Doctors recommend brightly colored and dark fruits and vegetables like blueberries, spinach, and carrots as these have flavonoids and antioxidants that boost brain health.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic skin disorder identified by itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. This condition begins in childhood and sometimes lingers through adulthood. Unfortunately, there is no clarity on the cause of atopic dermatitis. During a flare-up, the symptoms and inflammation can get worse when scratched. Despite no definitive cure, some treatment options can manage the symptoms. Let us look at the treatment methods, meal plans, and natural remedies to ease the condition: Treatment options DUPIXENT ® It is a prescription treatment that can help treat moderate to severe atopic dermatitis signs. You can use it alone or with other treatment measures. It is an interleukin inhibitor. You can find the  DUPIXENT ® injection as a preservation-free, sterile, slightly opalescent to clear, yellow or colorless solution. But, this treatment option can result in severe side effects like pink eye, injection site reactions, new-onset or worsening eye symptoms, cold, and headache. This treatment option should be administered under professional care and supervision. In addition, consult the doctor for the recommended dosage. Upadacitinib and Eucrisa It is an oral Janus kinase (JAK)1-selective inhibitor that helps with severe atopic dermatitis, especially in patients who did not respond to other treatment measures. Upadacitinib is an FDA-approved treatment indicated for use in those who are twelve years and older. Eucrisa curtails a substance that triggers atopic dermatitis symptoms. It is an ointment that offers relief in mild to moderate eczema. It is safe for use in adults and children three months and older. CIBINQO™ This is an oral treatment option prescribed for adults with moderate to server AD symptoms. CIBINQO™ blocks the JAK 1 protein, which reduces skin inflammation. The dosage depends on the severity of the condition and the physician’s recommendation. It can also result in side effects like headache, nausea, cold, cold sores, UTI, and throat pain.

The body goes through various changes, especially those affecting the senses, as one gets older. Here, weakening eyesight is a common phenomenon in older adults, however, it does not have to be inevitable. Age-related macular degeneration is an eye disease characterized by the deterioration of the retina’s central portion. One’s lifestyle and food choices can have a huge impact on eye health. So here are some foods to eat and avoid to maintain strong vision:  Best foods Various foods can help one manage macular degeneration symptoms and keep eye diseases at bay. Here are some great options to consider: Broccoli Broccoli is loaded with vitamins and minerals that could help one deal with eye conditions like macular degeneration. It is rich in vitamin A, which helps fight eye diseases and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. It is also loaded with vitamin K and B vitamins, fibers, magnesium, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining overall health. Blackberries Blackberries contain plenty of vitamins and minerals that help reduce the risk of age-related vision problems. Vitamins B6, C, A, folate, and zinc in these berries can prevent eyesight issues. The fruit also contains a dark pigment called anthocyanin, which protects the retina from sun damage. In addition, it acts as an antioxidant helping fight free radical damage to the eyes. Spinach Spinach is a leafy green that contains vitamin A, fibers, and minerals. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining eye health and reducing the risk of vision-related issues. As spinach contains an antioxidant called lutein that lowers the risk of macular degeneration.  Carrot Carrots are associated with eye health, as it contains vitamins C and B12 that improve vision. Carrots are also loaded with folate, zinc, and alpha and beta carotenes. Studies have found that those who eat carrots regularly are less likely to get diseases like macular degeneration.  Cranberries Cranberries contain anthocyanin and other powerful antioxidants which support eye health.

The bladder is a critical organ in the urinary tract that stores and releases urine. Any problem in the bladder can lead to discomfort, pain, and even infections. Therefore, it is essential to take good care of this organ. Besides following a healthy lifestyle, adding nutritious foods to the meal plan can contribute to maintaining optimal bladder health. Here are some of the best foods to eat for a healthy bladder. Bananas Bananas are an excellent source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health and lower the risk of constipation. Preventing constipation is necessary because it can cause bladder irritation and increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bananas are also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help soothe the bladder. Winter squash Winter squash and other squash varieties like butternut, acorn, and pumpkin are excellent sources of potassium, which is vital for maintaining kidney and bladder health. High-potassium foods can reduce the risk of UTIs and bladder irritation. Winter squash, in particular, is also low in sodium, which can help lower inflammation and prevent the kidneys from working overtime to flush out the extra salt from the body. Yogurt Yogurt is a good source of probiotics, beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and help promote a healthy immune system. Studies have shown that probiotics can help prevent UTIs by maintaining a healthy balance of microbes in the urinary tract. Green tea Green tea is a great home remedy for the bladder and overall health. It is a rich source of antioxidants that can prevent oxidative damage in the body. But one must drink this beverage in moderation and choose water for better hydration. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and waste products from the body, keeping the bladder clean and healthy. It also helps prevent UTIs that increase the risk of bladder problems.

For most people, achieving healthy hair, skin, and nails involves visiting a beauty salon for cosmetic treatments. However, it’s crucial to remember that what we put inside our bodies is more important than what we put on them. Thus, consuming nutritious food is vital to provide the body with the necessary minerals, vitamins, and nutrients for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. Additionally, keeping the body hydrated by drinking enough water is equally crucial. How does food impact hair, skin, and nails? Skin, hair, and nails are made of different elements. For example, the fingernails and hair are made of keratin. So if keratin production is not regulated in the body, a person will have dull hair and brittle nails. In such cases, eating foods rich in biotin is usually recommended. It boosts keratin production in the body and promotes follicle growth. Similarly, Vitamins A, E, and D, iron, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and protein are also essential for skin, hair, and nail health. When one eats foods rich in healthy fats, the body can lock in enough moisture making them radiant. On the contrary, not eating foods rich in these nutrients can worsen the skin, nails, and hair condition. For example, it has been observed that eating foods that are low in carbohydrates can lead to hair thinning, making them brittle. Also, eating foods with a high glycemic index that causes a spike in blood sugar has been known to trigger skin conditions such as acne. Thus, what one eats affects one’s hair, skin, and nails. Foods for healthy hair, skin, and nails Adding these nutrient-dense foods to the meal plan is not only good for the hair, nails, and skin but also good for one’s overall health. Fatty fish Salmon, halibut, anchovies, herring, mackerel, black cod, sardines, bluefin tuna, whitefish, striped bass, and cobia are high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Heartburn is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The burning feeling in the chest caused by the onset of heartburn can cause discomfort. The condition can be temporary or chronic if left unmanaged. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. Recognizing the early symptoms of heartburn is crucial for timely intervention and effective management. Let’s look at the subtle indicators of heartburn. What is heartburn? Heartburn, known as acid indigestion or acid reflux, is a condition where the stomach acid rushes back up into the esophagus (a tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach, and it is not designed to handle the corrosive effects of stomach acid). The acid reflux generally leads to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. The primary reason behind heartburn is a dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It is a muscle ring situated at the bottom of the esophagus that normally acts as a one-way valve, allowing foods and liquids to enter the stomach while preventing stomach contents from flowing back up into the esophagus. When the LES weakens or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can escape into the esophagus, leading to heartburn. Early symptoms of heartburn Burning sensation in the chest This is a common sign of the condition, often erupting from behind the breastbone. This sensation may also be described as a sharp, burning, or aching pain. It typically occurs shortly after eating, especially when lying down or bending over. Regurgitation Another common symptom of heartburn is regurgitation. This also occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the throat or mouth, leading to a sour or bitter taste. Regurgitation can be uncomfortable and distressing for many. Sour taste in the mouth Heartburn may also cause a persistent sour or acidic taste in the mouth.

Most of us wait for the Black Friday sale to get our hands on everything that we have planned to buy during the year. Whether it’s a new smartphone, TV, dishwasher, or laptop, this is the best time to score the best deals. But with so many deals and offers, things get tricky at times. Here are some expert tips to help you sail through the Black Friday furor. Plan your shopping While Black Friday is a great time to shop, no one wants to put a dent in their wallet. It is easy to get caught up in the excitement and purchase things that you don’t need. To avoid overspending, you need to plan your purchase. This means knowing exactly what you want to shop and allocating a fixed amount of money to it. Research the offers early on Almost every retailer and brand start advertising their Black Friday offers at least a few months in advance. To get to know these, prioritize your purchase and subscribe to the newsletters of your favorite brands. You don’t have to go on every retailer’s page. Using websites and applications such as Google Shopping, Shopkick, and Shopzilla will help you compare prices and know the discounts early on. Use social media Not just websites but retailers use social media platforms to promote sales, deals, and offers. Retailers also often reward people who follow and share information. Subscribe to their pages for quick alerts for incentives and promotions. The plus is that texts, social media posts, and tweets are a great way to share the offers with your friends as well. Check store policies Retailers don’t advertise all the offers on social media. For instance, they may have some specific deals like price-match and return policies that get you better discounts. So, it’s a good idea to keep yourself updated on this finer print on their websites.

Research suggests that almost 50% of people nationwide are missing at least one tooth. Dental implants are titanium replacements to teeth roots, used to hold false teeth in place. A dental surgeon fixes these implants using a screw-like tool and the artificial tooth is then secured on the implant. Individuals with dental implants should take certain care measures after the implantation. Furthermore, here are some mistakes to avoid after a dental implant procedure. Using a toothbrush with hard bristles Toothbrushes with hard bristles can hurt one’s teeth and gums, as the teeth are sensitive after a dental implant procedure. So, one should use toothbrushes with soft bristles, preferably nylon bristles, to avoid any damage to the implanted teeth. Having foods that are difficult to chew Food items like crackers, chips, nuts, and toasted bread have hard surfaces and can worsen one’s toothache. This is why dentists recommend that after a dental implant procedure, one should have soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, soft breads, porridge, cereals, and tender fruits like bananas. Neglecting basic dental hygiene practices Neglecting oral hygiene can cause dental health issues like tar-tar and cavities, increasing one’s discomfort after a dental implant procedure. Thus, individuals with dental implants should consistently follow dental hygiene practices like brushing two times a day and rinsing their mouth after meals. One may also use a good-quality mouthwash approximately three times a week for optimal oral hygiene. Having excessive sugar Excessive sugar intake is among the leading causes of tooth decay and cavity formation. So, those with dental implants should limit or avoid having foods and beverages containing added sugar, including confectionaries, soft drinks, and instant breakfast cereals. It helps to replace added sugar with natural sugar sources, such as fruits and fresh fruit juices. Not flossing regularly The development of plaque after a dental implant procedure can aggravate one’s discomfort and eventually lead to tooth decay.

Moving homes can be an overwhelming task, especially for a family when there are so many belongings that need to be moved around safely. There are several things to check before this process, and there are some ways that can make this procedure a little less stressful. One should ensure hiring a trusted company for a seamless customer experience. On that note, here are some tips that can help with a smooth moving experience: 1. Make lists and label belongings Lists are a big part of the moving process. This involves creating an inventory of things that have been put into boxes and also determining which boxes must be placed in which room. This can make placing them in the new place much more accessible. An inventory will also help in knowing if all the boxes have safely arrived at the new location, and if anything is missing, it can easily be pointed out. Labeling helps understand which boxes contain what items. One can also assign specific color-coded labels to boxes that belong to the same category; for example, books can be inside boxes with blue sticky notes. 2. Plan early Since packing and moving is an enormous task, it is usually recommended to start planning for it as early as possible. That way, it becomes easy to strategize, and packing can happen in bits and phases. When the planning is done in an organized manner, it also ensures that there are fewer mistakes made during the process. Also, it gives the homeowner enough time to decide whether they want to take everything with them or would like to donate or sell some of the things that they do not need in their new place of residence. 3. Consider giving away things This is actually a major point to consider.

Migraine is a prevalent health condition in which a person experiences severe headaches, usually on one side of the head. There may also be other symptoms like sensitivity to light, tiredness, and nausea, which can last a few hours to two days. The ailment is triggered due to stress, certain foods, and other factors. While there is no cure for migraines, the following tips can help manage the symptoms effectively: Use the correct treatment options There are several treatments for migraines, but it is essential to choose the correct one after consulting a doctor. The popular options include: Nurtec ODT Nurtec ODT is an oral treatment that can help alleviate symptoms like headaches, pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light in adults. One can use Nurtec ODT on alternate days or as the doctor recommends. Its side effects include allergic reactions, trouble breathing, and rash. UBRELVY It is a fast-acting treatment option that blocks a specific protein in the body known to induce migraine attacks. One can consult a doctor to determine the dosage according to their condition. The most common side effects of UBRELVY are nausea and sleepiness. Excedrin Excedrin is suitable for temporary relief from migraine headaches. It can also treat aches caused by other factors, such as arthritis and toothaches. The treatment has a combination of compounds that work to relieve the symptoms. The side effects include skin reactions and liver damage. QULIPTA QULIPTA is recommended for patients with more frequent migraine episodes. The treatment helps reduce the frequency of migraines by blocking a particular protein that triggers them. Its most common side effects are fatigue, constipation, and nausea. Follow a healthy meal plan Certain foods help alleviate the symptoms, while others aggravate them. So patients must choose wisely. The best foods are: Walnuts Studies have shown that migraine patients usually have low magnesium levels, a nutrient that can relieve pain.

When constipated, one’s bowel movements become difficult and infrequent. People with constipation find it challenging to pass stool and can experience hard stool, bloating, or even nausea. Not having enough fiber or fluids can cause constipation, and factors like pregnancy, traveling, sedentary lifestyle, and stress can also increase the risk of developing this condition. Constipation is usually treatable and can be managed using the following treatment options, foods, and lifestyle changes: Treatment options Doctors can prescribe laxatives and other such options based on the severity of the condition. Here are a few popular options to treat constipation: Linzess:  This increases the fluid content in the intestines, which accelerates the food movement through the gut. It also helps improve stool consistency and eases symptoms like discomfort, abdominal pain, straining, bloating, and feeling of incomplete bowel movements. Doctors recommend taking Linzess orally, at least half an hour before one’s first meal. Movantik:  This option is prescribed to cure the kind of constipation that is a side effect of other treatment options that target non-cancer pain. Movantik curtails the impact of the other prescription treatments on the gut without blocking their effect on pain. This is an oral prescription treatment that should be taken on an empty stomach   an hour before a meal or two hours after one. Amitiza:  This is used to treat conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or chronic idiopathic constipation. Amitiza can provide relief from symptoms like abdominal discomfort and bloating. It may also reduce the need to strain, improve stool texture, and lower the feeling of not completely emptying oneself. Duphalac:  This laxative is a type of sugar that can increase your frequency of bowel movements, can soften the stool, and improve stool water content. Duphalac can be taken once a day as a solution using its syrup or powder.