Menstruation is a natural body process where the lining of a woman’s uterus begins to shed and create a discharge of blood and other fluids. It is mainly triggered by hormone changes that occur as part of a monthly period cycle. Women can use several feminine hygiene products as per their preference to prevent the discharge from leaking. Here are the top six period products readily available in the market. Tampons Tampons are the most convenient, readily available, and widely used period products for absorbing menstrual discharge. These small cotton tubes mixed with wool are directly inserted into the vagina to prevent blood from leaking out. Cotton is an excellent absorbent material and does not irritate the organ’s lining. Tampons are use-and-throw products that come with applicators that help insert them correctly so one does not feel pain or discomfort. They are available in different sizes to absorb light, medium, or heavy periods, depending on the intensity of the menstrual cycle. But irrespective of the flow, doctors recommend changing tampons every four to six hours to keep the area clean and avoid the risk of a bacterial infection. If one wears a super-absorbent, heavy-flow tampon overnight, they should remove it and clean the area first thing in the morning. A pack of tampons can cost between $4 and $9, depending on the brand and quantity. Sanitary pads and napkins Sanitary pads and napkins are the second most widely used period products and a sustainable alternative. One-time-use cotton pads can be worn inside the undergarment and positioned in place to absorb the discharge. They come in different shapes and sizes and are made considering the intensity of the flow. Depending on the quality of the product, pads can cost anywhere between $2 and $8 per piece. Budget sanitary napkins are one-time-use cloth pads that can only be placed over the undergarment.

Esophageal cancer affects the esophagus. It is the long tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. In this tube, cancerous cells grow for various reasons leading to tumors. As the tumor grows, esophageal cancer signs start to become evident. As soon as the symptoms show up, it is recommended to start treatment to prevent the cancer cells from metastasis. Here are a few esophageal cancer signs, causes, and treatments to make note of. Esophageal cancer signs Starting in the inner layers of the esophagus, the cancer cells grow outward, spreading to the esophageal wall. In the early stages, no symptoms are noticeable or detectable. However, as the cancer cells grow to the lymph nodes, the blood vessels in the chest, and other organs, some of these esophageal cancer signs start to manifest. Chest pain This is one of the most common symptoms of esophageal cancer. A person will start to feel pain, specifically in the middle area of the chest. The pain is similar to feeling pressure build up in the chest or like a burning sensation. After some time, the pain radiates to other areas, such as below the throat, between the shoulders, and behind the breastbone. Trouble swallowing Esophageal cancer often causes difficulty in swallowing. This happens because the growth of the cancerous cells causes the esophagus to become narrow. Due to this, there is an obstruction in the smooth passage of food. This makes it difficult to swallow the food normally. This symptom starts as very mild in the beginning. With the cancer advancing, it worsens as the person feels like the food is stuck in the throat or chest. Sometimes, this can also cause choking. Hoarseness An occasionally occurring cough or a hoarse, scratchy voice may indicate a mild health problem that may pass in a few days.

The skin is the largest organ in the body, covering two square meters for a grown adult, and weighs about 16% of the total body mass. It also means the large area is susceptible to exposure and infections that can cause a number of skin problems. Sometimes, the discomfort can be managed with simple preventive measures and home remedies. But some signs and symptoms should never be ignored, and immediate professional consultation is advisable. Unusual spots or new spots Moles are common discolorations of the skin that develop as small spots across random locations in the body. In most cases, these are benign and are not a major cause for concern if there is no change in the existing number or shape of moles. But if one notices multiple new moles developing without warning or notices changes in the size and shape of the existing moles, immediately consult with a dermatologist. These changes in size and shape could indicate melanoma, one of the deadliest types of skin cancer. It is also advisable to get a skin examination done regularly to identify mole clusters and unusual spots on the skin. Skin cancer is manageable to a great extent when diagnosed and treated early. A bad acne problem Mild to moderate acne problems can be managed with topical creams and lotions that work their way into the skin to soothe from the outside. However, some types of acne are triggered as a side effect due to underlying health complications and persist longer. Inflammation is one of the primary triggers of acne. These breakouts develop a painful red and itchy center that forces one also to scratch away at the blemishes. However, popping such blemishes releases more bacteria and causes acne to spread. Popping acne can also cause scarring that only a specialist doctor, like a dermatologist, will be able to heal and cure.

The kidneys’ primary function is to filter blood and remove any harmful properties. However, individuals can develop masses such as growths or tumors inside the kidneys, which can stop them from doing their job properly. And while these could be signs of other health conditions, they may also indicate kidney cancer. Therefore, it is essential to learn about the signs of this mutation to receive a diagnosis as soon as possible. Here are a few signs that point toward kidney cancer: Blood in the urine (hematuria) The normal color of urine ranges from clear to pale yellow. Sometimes, this color may also change based on the foods one eats. For example, blackberries, beets, and fava beans may turn urine pink or red. Furthermore, certain treatment options may cause the color of the urine to turn orange or green. However, the reddish color of one’s urine might indicate that something isn’t right with the organ. It could point toward the presence of an infection or cancer. A healthcare expert must immediately diagnose such developments. Abdominal lump One of the most common indicators of kidney cancer is a hard lump that forms in the abdominal region. The development may occur in the front or rear of the region. Furthermore, this complication may also feel like a dense or hard bulge under the affected skin. Though a lump in the abdominal region is a common warning sign of kidney cancer, it may not show up in the early stages. Therefore, when one notices such a symptom, one must get an expert’s opinion. Lower back pain Aches and pains may occur due to several factors, such as age and injuries. But lower back pain is also an early indicator of late-stage kidney cancer. The symptoms are unlike typical muscular pains. Instead, the pain caused by kidney cancer might result in an unbearable, stabbing sensation.

Nearly 80 percent of the body is made of water. Every tissue, cell, and organ requires water for optimal functioning. Moreover, all bodily processes, from digestion to blood circulation, need water. Water is essential to flush out toxins from the body, carry oxygen to every organ, carry essential nutrients to all body parts, and maintain skin and hair health. Needless to say, there can be several side effects from not drinking enough water. Constant headaches One of the most common side effects of not drinking enough water is experiencing persistent headaches. This is because insufficient water causes an imbalance of electrolytes and fluids in the body. The fluid loss causes the tissues in the brain to shrink or contract. As the brain shrinks, it starts to pull away from the skull, putting pressure on the nerves. This is what causes the constant headaches. Constipation When sufficient water is in the body, the colon takes it from the bloodstream to the intestines. This is done to soften and bulk up the stools. However, when you don’t drink sufficient water, there is not enough for the digestion process to complete. As a result, the stool becomes hard, and there are motility issues since the hardened stool cannot pass through the system. So you experience constipation. Unhealthy skin Water provides hydration to your skin cells and plumps them up. This is what gives your skin its natural glow and brightness. Drinking enough water also makes the skin look vibrant. The water helps flush out the toxins. But insufficient water will make the skin lose elasticity and plumpness. This is another obvious side effect of not drinking enough water. The skin becomes dry and flaky. Also, there is inflammation, and the skin is prone to infections and other problems. Constant fatigue and weakness A significant side effect of not drinking enough water is feeling tired and weak.

Sleep is an essential part of daily routine. As you rest and relax during the night, the body carries out repair and restoration processes to help you stay healthy. The position and level of comfort while asleep can affect this process. Certain sleeping positions may cause or worsen pain, exert stress on the spine, or increase stiffness in the back. Here is a look at how sleeping positions can affect sleep: Finding the best sleeping position When it comes to sleep, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Your ideal sleeping position depends on factors such as your health, lifestyle, spinal alignment, and comfort. However, sleeping on the back or side is generally considered more beneficial than sleeping on your stomach. This is because your spine is better supported and balanced in the former, making room for pressure relief and muscle relaxation. Sleeping on your side A whopping 60% of adults sleep on their sides. For children, it is common to alternate between different sleeping positions, but as the flexibility of the spine decreases, there is a clear preference for side sleeping. Sleeping on the side is associated with several health benefits, like promoting healthy spinal alignment, reducing pain in the neck and the back, and decreasing the risk of heartburn and snoring. This makes the position popular among pregnant women and others with acid reflux, back pain, and sleep apnea. For ideal spine alignment, doctors recommend using a pillow or a blanket between your knees and a thicker pillow that matches the distance between your neck and your shoulder under your neck. According to experts, sleeping on the side with a well-supported spine is beneficial for pregnant women as it relieves the pressure on the belly. This also improves blood circulation in the body. Ideally, sleeping on the left side facilitates blood flow to the fetus, uterus, kidneys, and heart.

It can be highly beneficial to have a reliable gynecologist to ensure optimal reproductive health. Some individuals may feel uneasy discussing personal matters with their gynecologist. Hence, finding a doctor who creates a safe and comfortable environment is crucial. A proficient gynecologist will provide factual and informative responses to all sensitive inquiries without causing any embarrassment or judgment. The following are some questions that can be asked during a gynecologist appointment: What is my vulva supposed to look like? It is extremely normal to be curious about the vulva. Is it too big, too small, too dark? These are some of the common questions most women have about their bodies. A vulva is different in every woman, and it is completely normal. A good gynecologist will help one understand this easily and can explain that this is just a part of the genitals, and as long as it is healthy, one does not have anything to worry about. Should I shave or wax before visiting? Some may question whether it is appropriate to wax, trim, or shave pubic hair before going for a doctor’s visit. This is a valid question; the right answer is to do what makes one feel comfortable. Although, doctors suggest that one should not wax the pubes completely. This is because the pubic hair is there for a reason. It acts as a protective buffer and helps reduce friction during sex and other activities. It is also helpful in preventing the transmission of any infections, bacteria, and other pathogens. So, one does not need to wax the pubic hair before seeing a doctor. A gynecologist acknowledges the significance of hair and will never criticize someone for it. Some people feel comfortable trimming their hair before a visit, which is okay, too, as long as one does not hurt oneself in the process.

Cancer, irrespective of the type, is a huge health concern around the world. Today, thanks to major improvements in screening technology, doctors are able to prove an early diagnosis of the condition, encouraging prompt and appropriate treatment. However, while keeping an eye out for the condition, one must remember that signs can vary depending on factors such as the size of the tumor, its impact on nearby organs and tissues, and its progression. Common early signs Fatigue Most people usually experience fatigue after exertion. But when dealing with cancer, the fatigue sets in without engaging in intense physical activities. Such exhaustion can hinder day-to-day activities. Just like normal cells in the body, the cancer cells thrive on nutrients to grow, leaving little for other healthy cells. This deprivation can make one feel extremely tired throughout the day. Changes in bowel movements One of the early warning signs of cancer is changes in bowel movement. Further, colorectal cancer affects the colon and rectum, causing symptoms like diarrhea and constipation, which can further contribute to fatigue. Such changes can be accompanied by persistent pain in the abdomen and pelvic region. Bloating While bloating can cause discomfort, most people believe it to be harmless. However, it could be a sign of cancer for some. For instance, when affected by ovarian cancer, the body has a buildup of fluid (cancer cells) in the abdomen region. So, if one observes persistent bloating, which does not go away following bowel movement and lasts longer than two weeks, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, if one experiences changes in their appetite, it could be a sign of tumors taking up a lot of space in the abdomen region. Skin-related issues Typically, subtle changes in the skin can indicate issues in overall health, including the development of cancer.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a respiratory virus that causes common cold-like symptoms. Generally, it affects those with weakened immunities, such as infants and older adults, more than others. Although people with this condition recover from it within a week or two, it can become dangerous for individuals with compromised immune systems. For children especially, people must sense certain warning signs of this condition at an early stage. Here are a few warning signs: Runny nose RSV is known to cause inflammation in a child’s upper respiratory tract which consists of the nose and throat. Children with early-stage RSV will have an excessive amount of mucus produced in their bodies, causing them to blow their noses every now and again. Like many other symptoms of RSV, this one also closely resembles those related to a common cold. Decreased appetite The cold-like symptoms of RSV make it difficult for children to taste and smell food components properly. Additionally, the virus also tends to block kids’ throats with an excessive amount of phlegm. This causes them to have great difficulty not only in eating, drinking, and swallowing meals and drinks, but also completely takes away their sensory enjoyment of all foods. As a result, children with RSV will slowly experience a progressive reduction of appetite. The parents and other relatives responsible for such kids must ensure that they are fed despite their lack of appetite. Not feeding them would result in eventual weakness and a loss of muscle mass, both of which can have other adverse health reactions for them. Incessant coughing, wheezing, and sneezing in babies Babies are at great risk of experiencing some of the severe RSV symptoms. A clear indicator that one’s infant may have RSV is incessant coughing and sneezing. Both these symptoms are a result of the inflammation that RSV brings about in the baby’s sinus areas, lungs, and throat.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as COPD, is a term used by healthcare professionals to refer to a group of lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Over time, COPD can cause patients to experience breathing difficulties. While one cannot reverse the lung damage, patients can make certain lifestyle changes to manage the condition and its associated symptoms. Continue reading to learn more about the symptoms and treatment alternatives of COPD. Symptoms of COPD Generally, the symptoms of COPD do not make an appearance until the condition has progressed significantly, leading to extensive lung damage. Furthermore, the continuation of certain poor habits can make the condition worse over time. Here are some of the signs of COPD mentioned below. Tightness in the chest One of the most common symptoms of COPD, chest tightness, can manifest in different ways across patients. While for some it can be noticed in the form of breathing difficulties, for others it can feel like a weight on the chest. This can increase the risk of pain while breathing. Some of the main causes of the issue are damage to lung’s air sacs, airway obstruction, respiratory infections, and bronchospasms. Wheezing This symptom of COPD is often accompanied by tightness in the chest. One of the best ways to differentiate wheezing from breathing difficulties is to look for a high-pitched whistling-like sound while inhaling or exhaling. Usually, this symptom is brought on by damage to the lungs and airways, where the body part swells and gets clogged by mucus. Some of the main reasons for this symptom are prolonged exposure to dust, polluted air, chemicals, and fumes. Chronic cough Another prevalent symptom associated with COPD is cough. Patients can experience a dry cough or cough accompanied by phlegm or sputum. In most cases of COPD, the cough is brought on by the inflammation and thickening of lung tissue.

Prurigo nodularis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the development of raised nodules or bumpy papules on the skin’s surface. The nodules are often intensely itchy and can lead to significant discomfort and distress. While the disorder primarily affects the skin, it can also lower a person’s quality of life if ignored or not managed properly. This post explores the nine most common signs and symptoms of prurigo nodularis. Nodules or papules One of the more visible signs of prurigo nodularis is the development of small, raised bumps on the skin’s surface. These bumps emerge over six to eight weeks after the condition strikes. They vary in size, typically ranging from a few millimeters to over a centimeter in diameter. The bumps are often firm to the touch and may have a reddish, brownish, or normal skin color tint on the exterior. Note that the intensity of these pimples or blemishes will vary depending on how severe the underlying triggers are and how well patients manage chronic flare-ups. Intense itching Skin irritation and itching are among the most commonly reported signs of skin disorders. In prurigo nodularis, this symptom is persistent and distressing, commonly referred to as pruritis. Pruritis is mild at first but can become relentless and overwhelming, leading to a strong urge to scratch the affected areas continually. The discomfort can be so intense that it disrupts daily activities. Patients may even find it hard to sleep at night since the itching makes it impossible to find a suitable sleeping position. The itching first develops around the nodules of bumps but can quickly spread to other body areas if left unchecked. Symmetric lesions Lesions are another symptom commonly seen in many skin disorders. However, their appearance may vary depending on the underlying trigger, helping dermatologists diagnose the problem.

Fungus is normally present in the body, but when there is an overgrowth, it can lead to infection. One common infection is nail fungal infection, or onychomycosis or tinea unguium. It usually affects the toenails rather than the fingernails, causing them to become brittle and discolored. This infection develops over time, so any changes to the affected nails may be subtle initially. Here are some common types, causes, symptoms, and treatment measures for nail fungal infections. Types of nail fungal infections In general, there are four types of nail fungal infections. Distal or lateral subungual onychomycosis This is a common nail fungal infection caused by a type of fungus known as dermatophyte. This infection can occur in both toenails and fingernails. It usually starts as a yellowish-colored patch in the nail bed, right under the nail. Over time, this patch spreads to the center of the nail from the edges, causing the nail to separate from the nail bed. Candidal onychomycosis This type of infection is caused by yeast. It mostly occurs in the fingernails. The yeast causes the area around the infected nail to become inflamed and swollen. Sometimes, the nail might come off entirely from the nail bed. This usually happens when the nail has been damaged by an injury or another infection. Proximal subungual onychomycosis This is a rare type of nail fungal infection. It usually affects those who have autoimmune health disorders. The infection starts with the development of white spots in the center of the nail bed at the cuticle. As the nail grows, the spots start to move outwards. White superficial onychomycosis This is another rare nail fungal infection. It mainly occurs in the toenails. It starts as white spots on the surface of the nails. Over time, the spots become powdery, causing the nail to become brittle and crumble.