Lymphoma is a cancer whose origin is in the lymph system. There are primarily two types: Hodgkin Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). As of 2022, NHL accounts for 4% of all cancers in the country. In contrast, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is expected to affect 8,540 people this year. A variety of treatment options are available. However, the side effects are many, for which supportive care is required. Here are 3 easy tips for coping with lymphoma: Approach a health professional immediately The nature of the treatment plan will depend on the type of lymphoma the patient suffers from, something only an appropriately qualified health professional can identify. Regarding the symptoms, there are 60 of them, broadly classified under two categories: Non-Hodgkin and Hodgkin Lymphoma. The latter requires only chemotherapy or chemotherapy accompanied by radiotherapy for successful cancer treatment. In contrast, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma entails a variety of treatments, the choice of which depends on the type of Lymphoma-aggressive or indolent. For aggressive NHL, the following treatment options are prescribed: Chemotherapy : It is one of the most common treatments for cancer, involving the use of anti-cancer elements to destroy cancer cells. It can be administered orally or via injections and is mainly used in initial treatment or stem cell transplants. Radiation therapy : Also called radiotherapy, it kills cancer cells by using high-powered energy beams like protons and X-rays. Generally, in a line of treatment, it is used after successful chemotherapy to get rid of one or two remaining cancer cells. However, in certain types of lymphoma, specifically the slower ones, radiation may be the only treatment to eliminate cancer cells. Targeted therapy : The strategy this therapy uses to fight cancer cells is to attack the specific abnormalities that add to the potency of the cancer cells. Once these abnormalities are blocked, the cancer cells turn redundant.

Multiple sclerosis is a condition that affects the central nervous system of the body. Here, the body’s immune system attacks the nerve fibers with the risk of causing permanent damage. As per a National MS Society study, about 1 million people in the country are affected by this condition. While there’s no permanent cure for the disease, it can be managed through the following treatment options, better food choices, and a few lifestyle changes:  Choosing the right treatment options People affected by multiple sclerosis (or MS) are usually capable of living a normal or near-normal life. With the right treatment, their condition can improve drastically. Ponvory, Kesimpta, and Ocrevus   are three different options prescribed by doctors for MS patients. Here is what one can expect: Ponvory:  This helps treat patients suffering from relapsing forms of MS. Adults with active secondary progression and relapsing-remitting MS can also benefit from this option. However, it has not been tested on kids. Ponvory is meant to be taken orally with or without food. KESIMPTA:  This is a prescription option for adults with relapsing forms of MS. The effectiveness of the option on children is yet to be proven. KESIMPTA is a liquid solution that is injected under the skin to target the B cells of the lymph nodes that play a role in relapsing multiple sclerosis. Ocrevus:  This prescription treatment provides relief to adults affected by primary progressive multiple sclerosis, MS relapse, relapse-remitting MS, and secondary progressive disease. It is not yet being tested on children in a clinical setting. Ocrevus is administered two times a year. Making better food choices There are no typical constraints or specific meals that can prevent the disease or relapse. However, an anti-inflammatory meal plan is usually recommended to patients so that they remain energetic and do not develop other conditions like cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure that can worsen their MS symptoms.

Nasal polyps are soft, usually painless lumps that grow in the sinuses or nose as a result of specific allergies, infection, or inflammation. More often than not, the polyps do not result in severe symptoms. However, people with nasal polyps may experience sneezing, itching, difficulty in breathing, and runny nose, among other symptoms. While doctors can prescribe sprays for nasal polyps relief, the following natural remedies can also help relieve the symptoms.  Cayenne pepper This hot and spicy food item contains capsaicin—a compound that is known for its ability to clear sinuses. Several studies have shown that this compound can help ease inflammation, open up nasal passages, and improve immunity. Consequently, one can reduce several nasal polyp symptoms by adding cayenne pepper to their food. Adding 1–2 teaspoons to the recipes should help with symptom relief. Alternatively, having a hot cayenne tea can also serve the purpose. Peppermint The key ingredient that makes peppermint one of the best natural remedies for nasal polyps is menthol. A study conducted in 2015 indicated that menthol possesses decongestant properties that not only help in clearing nasal passages but also treat common cold-like symptoms. Neti pot Using a neti pot is a form of nasal irrigation that can help reduce nasal polyp symptoms. It entails using a small pot filled with a warm salt water solution. The water is first sterilized or distilled, and then salt is added to make a solution. This solution is run through the sinuses and nasal passages to help dampen the mucus membranes. The process protects the mucus membranes from the invasion of irritants and allergens. Steam inhalation Steam can also help in easing nasal polyp symptoms. Several studies have demonstrated that steam inhalation along with nasal irrigation can help relieve symptoms like sinus inflammation-induced headaches. One can inhale the steam in several ways, like steam rooms, humidifiers, baths, and hot showers.

There are many reasons why sugar is considered a culprit, and one of them is its negative effect on our skin. When we consume excess sugar, our body experiences an imbalance in glucose levels, leading to various skin complications. To ensure healthy skin, it’s essential to be aware of sugar’s impact on our body and find ways to improve our bodily function without relying on it. Here are some signs of excess sugar. Increased acne When you eat food that is high in sugar, it causes a spike in the blood sugar levels in the body. This spike can have severe side effects, the major one being inflammation that can be difficult to manage. The blood sugar spikes also make excess sebum, the skin’s oily substance. Though this natural oil keeps the skin well hydrated and is necessary, excess sebum can cause issues like acne. The sebum blocks or clogs the pores on the skin, making it difficult to breathe and cleanse. The dirt can collect when this happens, leading to infections and acne problems. The blood sugar spike is not just due to sweets but also junk and processed foods, including dairy products. These foods can cause a hormonal imbalance and lead to hormonal acne. Appearance of wrinkles Consuming too much sugar can accelerate the formation of wrinkles on your skin. This happens because the telomeres in our DNA act as protective caps at the end of chromosomes. As these telomeres become shorter and shorter with each cell division, they eventually become too short to protect the cell from damage. This can cause the cell to die or be unable to divide, leading to premature aging and wrinkles and lines on the face. Studies have linked increased sugar intake to faster telomere shortening. Moreover, excess sugar consumption can cause collagen cross-linking, which can reduce the skin’s elasticity.

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.

When it comes to feeding pets, cat parents may need to exercise even more caution than dog parents. That is because cats require more proteins and minerals. Further, they are “true” or obligate carnivores, meaning they need nutrients found in animal flesh to survive and maintain optimal health. The best way to ensure your pet gets nutritious meals is to choose foods recommended by veterinarians. Here are a few popular options: Smalls Human-Grade Fresh cat food Smalls is a fresh cat food manufacturer that is known for its Human-Grade Fresh product line. Approved by vets, this product line features recipes made with human-grade ingredients and high-quality, fresh animal protein sources, and it comes in two textures, making it ideal for even the fussiest eaters. The brand lets you choose the protein source for your feline from options like Bird (Chicken), Other Bird (Turkey and Chicken Liver), and Cow. Regardless of the formula you pick, you can rest assured knowing that Smalls’ ingredients are USDA-certified, humanely harvested, and sustainably sourced with no bisphenol A (BPA), preservatives, fillers, or unknown ingredients. Blue Buffalo Basics grain-free cat food Looking for a formula with only a few ingredients for your sensitive feline? Check out skin and stomach care grain-free cat food—a limited-ingredient recipe from Blue Buffalo. It contains only one animal protein source (whitefish) along with potatoes and pumpkin to support gentle digestion, making it suitable for cats with sensitive stomachs. The formula has an excellent balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin and contains healthy levels of antioxidants like vitamin E and C to help strengthen your cat’s immune system. This cat food is free from cheap fillers and artificial flavors or preservatives. Tiki Cat Luau wet food If you are looking for high-quality, tasty wet food for your cat, the Tiki Cat Luau Variety Pack grain-free canned food is a great option.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell, wherein plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and overcrowd the red blood cells. These cancerous cells give birth to abnormal proteins that can cause further complications. When one is suffering from multiple myeloma, one’s body might or might not give any indications. Here we will discuss signs and lifestyle changes to help manage multiple myeloma. Signs of multiple myeloma Here are some signs of multiple myeloma one should look out for: Fatigue A person with multiple myeloma may feel highly fatigued after a good amount of rest. This fatigue may make it difficult to carry out daily tasks. Fatigue may cause other issues like difficulty concentrating and impaired memory.  Bone pain Multiple myeloma may lead to bone pain. The ribs, back, or hips are frequently the sites of dull bone pain. Movement usually makes it worse, and it persists. Moreover, this might weaken the bones and cause fractures. This disorder is more prone to impact the bones in the arms, legs, and spine. When the spinal cord is harmed, the legs and feet may become numb and weak, resulting in uncontrollable bowel and bladder movements and sensations of pins and needles throughout the body. Unusual bleeding and bruising Typical symptoms of multiple myeloma include heavy periods, frequent nosebleeds, and bleeding gums. Since the platelets in the body, which help blood clot, are constantly being attacked by cancer cells, bleeding occurs often. A person may also experience frequent bruising. Frequent infections A person with multiple myeloma experiences frequent infections in the upper respiratory tract, urinary tract, and skin. This is caused by the compromised immune system due to abnormal plasma cells. These infections may turn severe if left untreated. Kidney problems Multiple myeloma may lead to kidney or renal impairment, resulting in kidney failure.

Joint pain can be a natural consequence of aging, or it could be a symptom of conditions like arthritis and gout. While these diseases usually affect older adults, research suggests a link between excessive sugar intake and the risk of developing joint pain. Further, sugar may worsen symptoms of joint problems. Further, one may be likely to experience pain and stiffness in the joints when dealing with diabetes or high blood sugar. Arthritis and sugar intake According to two long-term studies, female participants who were given more than one sugar-sweetened soda every day had a 63% higher risk of developing deep positive rheumatoid arthritis. However, the conclusions were not solely based on sugar intake, but also determined by other factors like eating a lot of processed food. People with arthritis may experience an increase in joint pain when choosing potentially triggering foods like processed and sugary items.  Signs of joint problems Anecdotal evidence suggests that those dealing with joint pain experience episodes of pain after having sugary foods and beverages. So, high sugar may worsen symptoms of existing joint problems. Here are a few signs one may observe: Pain and mobility issues Over time, unhealthy food choices can lead to multiple health issues, including joint pain. Poor eating habits include high sugar intake, which can lead to an increase in body mass, exerting additional stress on the joints. The pressure usually affects the the joints in knees and ankles, potentially making it difficult for one to carry out everyday activities like walking, standing up, sitting down, running, and jogging. So, it is important to incorporate healthy and sustainable lifestyle changes into the daily routine to avoid complications like joint pain. Swelling and inflammation Research suggests that eating too much sugar triggers excessive production of cytokines—inflammatory proteins. So, with a high intake of sweet foods and beverages, the body is at risk of inflammation, which is one of the causes of joint pain.

Regarded as the brain’s processing center, the central nervous system (CNS) governs various activities, including the regulation of breathing, heart rate, body temperature, sensory information processing, and motor signals. It is the brain’s lifeline, carrying out several essential functions. Studies have linked excessive sugar intake to the damage of the brain’s blood vessels, causing brain atrophy and vascular dementia. Keep reading to know more about the impact of high sugar levels on the nervous system. Memory An overindulgence in sugary foods can considerably slow down cognitive functioning and cause memory problems. It can also increase the risk of mental health disorders like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease among the elderly. Studies have demonstrated that when consumed in high amounts, sugar causes the release of the stress hormone called cortisol in the body, which can cause problems with memory. Consuming too much sugar over a period of time affects faculties like spatial and object-recognition memory. Attention A high intake of sugar triggers the release of dopamine, which can cause one to become fidgety and inattentive. The instant boost of energy one typically experiences after a sweet treat is temporary, and it is typically followed by a drop in glucose levels, leading to a lack of focus. Heart rate The heart rate is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which contains the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Excessive sugar intake can affect the heart’s rhythm and elevate blood pressure levels, eventually causing damage to the cardiovascular system. Decision-making abilities The brain and spinal cord are two important components of the CNS, and it governs one’s decision-making abilities. Eating too many sugary food items can lead to elevated glucose levels, which have been found to affect decision-making and self-control abilities. Onset of depression and anxiety The primary mediators of anxiety in the CNS are the hormones norepinephrine, dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and serotonin.

Did you know that an improper skincare regime can cause more harm than good to your skin? This expansive organ of the body defines our overall look. Following the right skincare regime if you wish to look youthful, energetic, and healthy is of utmost importance. Beautiful and healthy skin gives you confidence and makes you feel great. So, be aware of these five skincare mistakes that may cause premature aging, and stay away from them. Not wearing sunscreen Wearing sunscreen is a significant skincare and beauty tip we usually take for granted. But it has been found that 70% of the signs of aging are from exposure to the sun. So, wearing the right SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is essential to avoid premature aging. And it is recommended for all weathers, whether indoors or outdoors. Moreover, sunblock can help prevent signs of premature aging, such as wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, rough skin, and loss of elasticity. However, do not apply just any sunscreen. Go for sunblock with SPF 30 or more. You will find a sunscreen that is water-based, too, in case you have oily skin. Not getting enough sleep Remember that sleep helps rejuvenate your body and is also necessary for flawless skin. Cutting down on sleep can lead to acne, pale complexion, dullness, inflammation, and dehydrated skin. And all these factors can make you look older than your actual age. Sleep quality directly impacts your skin quality; therefore, not enough sleep can lead to premature signs of aging. Make sure you sleep and wake up at specific times every day. Try and avoid gadgets or heavy meals right before you go to sleep. Make sure the room is dark enough. Hanging an irregular meal plan If you want radiant and smooth skin, use the right skincare products and follow the correct daily regime. But you should also consume the right foods and nutrients.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people with certain disabilities and people over 65. Original Medicare has two main parts: Part A, which covers the cost of inpatient services, and Part B, which covers the cost of outpatient services and certain medical equipment. Although the program is meant to ease the financial burden of medical costs on people, it can be quite complex to navigate. This article explores 11 things that are excluded from Medicare coverage. 1. Medically unreasonable services and supplies Any services and supplies deemed unnecessary or unreasonable for diagnosis or treatment are not covered by Medicare. These may include: Services that could have been furnished at a lower-cost setting (such as at a nursing home) Services that exceed Medicare length of stay limitations Excessive therapy or diagnostic procedures Unrelated screenings, tests, examinations, or therapies (that the patient has no symptoms for) Unnecessary services based on patient diagnosis, such as transcendental meditation Exceptions to this rule include Medicare preventive services, transitional care management, chronic care management, and advance care planning. 2. Opticians and eye exams While Medicare covers ophthalmologic expenses (such as cataract surgery), it does not cover the cost of most vision services, including eyeglasses and contact lenses or routine examinations for prescription and fitting. Additionally, Medicare does not cover the cost of eye refractions provided by practitioners. Those looking for vision coverage must consider signing up for Medicare Advantage plans. 3. Dental work Original Medicare and Medigap policies do not cover routine dental services such as the care, treatment, filling, or removal of teeth or the structures supporting the teeth (that is, the periodontium, which includes the gingivae, dentogingival junction, periodontal membrane, cementum, and alveolar bone). However, there are certain exceptions for the same. Medicare may cover some dental services, such as an X-ray required for treatment of a jaw or bone fracture, tooth extraction for radiation treatment, oral or dental examination performed prior to a renal transplant or heart valve replacement, or a dental service performed as an integral part of a treatment.

The eyes are extremely delicate organs that must remain healthy at all times, as once injured, they cannot regenerate or repair. The body requires several vitamins and minerals to maintain clear eyesight and good eye health. So, it is crucial to make better food and lifestyle-related choices to maintain sharp eyesight. While one can choose supplements to avoid nutrient deficiency, vitamin-rich foods are excellent, natural ways to ensure healthy eyes. Vitamin A Vitamin A, or retinol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that can be found in two different forms in foods: provitamin A carotenoids and preformed vitamin A. Carotenoids are found in green leafy vegetables, orange and yellow vegetables, tomatoes, and fish oils. Milk and meat products such as liver and fish are excellent sources of preformed vitamin A. This vitamin is an essential component of rhodopsin, a protein in the retina that aids in night vision. Additionally, vitamin A helps in protecting and preserving a clear cornea, the transparent outer surface of the eye. It also protects the eyes against many eye diseases. Studies have shown that maintaining an adequate level of vitamin A in the body can help minimize the chances of developing juvenile blindness and cataract. According to anecdotal evidence, the nutrient appears to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).  If one is experiencing a persistent deficiency of vitamin A, their tear ducts may dry up. This can lead to the development of irreversible blindness when the cornea eventually weakens. Lubricating eye drops containing vitamin A can help treat dry eye syndrome. Vitamin A deficiency is uncommon, but if left untreated, it can cause xerophthalmia—a serious degenerative eye condition that initially develops as night blindness. Vitamin C Vitamin C, a potent anti-oxidant, helps lower oxidative stress in the eyes. The eyes are more vulnerable to free radical damage as more oxygen gets converted into active radicals here.