Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder characterized by extreme moods, either significantly high or low. The high periods are referred to as mania or hypomania, and the low moods are called depression. However, the moods can sometimes be concurrent, meaning individuals with bipolar disorder may have manic and depressive symptoms at once. The condition is usually difficult to diagnose; however, some signs can detect bipolar disorder early, and treatment can be started accordingly. Types and symptoms Often, the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder overlap with those of other conditions, so it becomes difficult to diagnose it timely, which can delay treatment. However, there are now some criteria laid out by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders that help recognize bipolar disorder. There are four types of bipolar disorders, and the symptoms vary according to the type of the condition. These are as follows: 1. Bipolar I This type is diagnosed when the individual experiences manic episodes. The symptoms are as follows: This includes a significant shift in the behavior and mood of the person. These mood changes are often unlike the person’s personality or usual behavior, making it evident that something is wrong. A manic episode is also considered manic when it is present most of the day and nearly daily. So, it is not a once-in-a-while episode, but it happens almost daily and often. These episodes last a week or are so severe that hospital intervention is needed, and then they are recognized as manic episodes. Those dealing with bipolar I disorder also experience depressive episodes. However, according to the criteria, bipolar I is only diagnosed when the abovementioned symptoms are experienced. Other symptoms may overlap and hinder treatment and management therapies. 2. Bipolar II This type of bipolar also has high and low moods; however, depressive episodes are more frequent and likely to be crucial in diagnosing bipolar II.

Choosing the right gift for a loved one is an act of thoughtfulness and care, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful. To help alleviate the confusion and uncertainty, here are some unique and creative gift ideas that are perfect for any occasion and are guaranteed to make your loved ones feel extraordinary. From personalized photo frames to cookbooks, these gift ideas will help you decide and show your loved one how much you care. Personalized family portrait A personalized family portrait can be a heartwarming and timeless gift for a loved one. It captures the bond of the family and becomes a cherished keepsake that can be displayed for years to come. Additionally, the picture will serve as a reminder of the happy day it was taken. To obtain a personalized family portrait, one can approach an artist through their website or social media and provide them with the picture they want to be turned into a portrait. One can choose to have the portrait as digital art or a hand-painted piece. Either way, it will add a touch of warmth and nostalgia to the receiver’s home. Indoor plants or herb garden kits Indoor plants can bring life and vibrancy to any room or space they are placed in. Their greenery promotes well-being and can be a positive companion for improving mental health. One can also gift herb garden kits, which provide the recipient an exciting opportunity to grow fresh herbs right in their homes. This way, they can enhance their dishes, and the herb garden will also enliven their home and boost its visual appeal. An experience Instead of a materialistic gift, one can also gift their loved ones an experience that excites them. This could be anything from a hot air balloon ride, a tasting tour, a skydiving experience, a concert, or a luxurious spa visit.

Colon or colorectal cancer begins in the colon—the longest part of the large intestine. Along with the rectum, the colon makes up the lower end of the digestive system. Cancer in this region is the third most common form of the condition, with the American Cancer Society suggesting that 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women are at risk of developing the disease. Here, recognizing the signs can help one seek timely treatment.  Early signs The early stages of colon cancer rarely cause visible symptoms. However, one may experience some of these early signs for about a year or two before they get a diagnosis. Abdominal pain: Pain is a common cancer symptom. With colon cancer, one may observe tenderness in the lower abdomen as well. Rectal bleeding: One may observe bright, red blood in the stool and persistent diarrhea as early signs of colon cancer. Anemia: Colon cancer causes inflammation and blood loss, which results in iron deficiency, leading to anemia. As the cancer progresses, one may start to experience some of the following symptoms, usually observable between stages 0 and 2: Changes in bowel habits: Constipation and diarrhea are common early signs of the condition. Cancer in the colon can affect the frequency of bowel movements. Changes in stool: One may observe changes in the shape, such as narrowed stool and color of the stool due to blood.  Bloating and cramps: Abdominal cramps, gas, and bloating are gastrointestinal issues developing in the early stages of colon cancer. In the advanced stages, specifically in stage 3 or 4, symptoms like excessive fatigue, unexplained weakness, and loss of appetite. Further, the changes in stool may seem to last longer than a month. One may also experience constipation and a persistent feeling that the bowels aren’t completely empty. Vomiting is also a common symptom.

Leukemia, or blood cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the white blood cells. It also starts with the lymphatic system and the bone marrow. The white blood cells are the body’s natural defense system against infections and allergies. Under normal circumstances, these cells grow and multiply whenever the body needs to fight off intruders. However, the white blood cells start to malform and multiply at a higher rate with the onset of the cancer. Uncommon signs of leukemia The symptoms of leukemia start to appear within a few days or weeks of tumor growth. Generally, the early indicators of this form of cancer are difficult to diagnose since they are similar to the signs of other health disorders such as influenza or GERD. As a result, diagnosis often happens later, when the severity of the symptoms increases. Therefore, if one is at a high risk of leukemia, it helps to be aware of some of the rare symptoms of the disease. Here are some of them: 1. Vomiting This symptom is generally observed in about 5% of leukemia patients. It is generally experienced before an accurate prognosis has been received. With a lot of physical and emotional changes occurring in the body, blood cancer can trigger nausea and vomiting. Several other underlying reasons can cause these symptoms. For instance, blood cancer may cause frequent constipation or other problems related to the bowel. With the digestive system disrupted, one may frequently experience vomiting and nausea. 2. Hypercalcaemia In some cases, leukemia can lead to calcium leaking into the bloodstream. As a result, calcium levels in the blood rise to quite high levels. This phenomenon is known as hypercalcemia. This can cause a person to feel thirsty and drowsy. It can also cause brain fog, making one feel confused and unable to think coherently.

Smartphones have become an inseparable part of most people’s lives. Owing to the constant reliance on them, individuals are always concerned about their phone’s battery percentage and keeping it charged throughout the day. However, in doing so, they often make inevitable mistakes that could prove costly, severely damaging the phone’s functioning and battery life. To ensure smartphones’ longevity and optimal performance, avoiding common charging mistakes, such as the following, is crucial. Charging the phone to 100% It is a common misconception that charging the phone 100% is the most effective way to use it. However, this practice can cause harm to one’s device in the long run. Smartphones, like many other electronic devices, have limited charge cycles. If one constantly charges the phone to full capacity, one will quickly use up all of these cycles. Once the charge cycles are depleted, the phone’s battery capacity will decrease, negatively impacting its overall functionality. To avoid this, it is recommended that one charges the smartphone only once a month and, at other times, only up to 80% for optimal battery lifespan. By following these guidelines, one can extend the phone’s battery’s life and ensure it continues functioning properly over time. Letting the phone discharge completely Letting a smartphone discharge completely, as in, letting the battery reach 0% and shut down, is an equally detrimental practice. This is again due to the smartphone’s limited number of charge cycles. Charging it after it reaches 0% and shuts down uses up a new charge cycle of the phone. Hence, to ensure a long battery life, it is also essential to not let it get discharged. Connecting the smartphone to a charger when it begins showing a low battery warning is advisable. Using cheap chargers It is imperative for one always to use the recommended phone chargers that their phone’s manufacturer provides.

One can almost hear the jingling Christmas bells and see the twinkling fairy lights with Christmas not that far away. With it comes the exchange of gifts—an indispensable part of Christmas celebrations. Choosing a gift is about understanding what the receiver wants and likes and combining visual appeal with utility. To help one narrow down the best options, here are a few gifts that are often returned and, thus, should be avoided: 1. Video games Although buying a video game is a good idea for gamers, if one does not have access to the receiver’s game collection, they may end up gifting a game that the receiver already has. Moreover, if one does not have a fair idea about video games, they may end up buying the wrong game, which may not be useful for the recipient. So, it is a good idea to avoid buying a video game if one is unsure of the exact game the recipient wants. 2. Shoes Few things are more pleasant for fashionable individuals than being gifted a pair of elegant shoes. However, buying the right pair of shoes involves many considerations. First, one would have to ensure that the type and design of shoes are in accordance with the recipient’s preferences. Further, one shoe size definitely does not fit all, so shoes of the wrong size would be returned as a Christmas present. 3. Scented candles Scented candles are perhaps among the most popular Christmas gifts. But candles with an overwhelmingly strong fragrance or those with a scent the recipient does not like can make the gift stay unused. Alternatively, one can consider gifting a loved one a scent diffuser for Christmas, as they can add the fragrance of their choice to it. 4. Clothes Gifting clothes is usually risky, as one would have to consider factors like the size of the receiver, the type of clothing they like, and whether they already have similar options.

Thousands of conditions are considered disability, and most of them may qualify for healthcare benefits. Many healthcare authorities provide monthly resources to those who are unable to work due to their illness. However, one should also note that some conditions are more likely to qualify than others. To help one understand better, here’s a list of 10 common disabilities, which includes the largest group of people who receive various government-funded insurance and income. Musculoskeletal system and connective tissue This group of disabilities contains a wide range of disorders and makes up about 30% of all people receiving healthcare benefits. The musculoskeletal system includes the parts of the body, such as ligaments, cartilage, bones, and other connective tissue. The system connects the bones and helps one maintain movements, so sitting, standing, or walking is nearly impossible without the skeletal system. The most common musculoskeletal system and connective tissue disorders include arthritis, spine disorders, scoliosis, ruptured discs, fibromyalgia, and degenerative disc disease. Mood disorders There are several types of mood disorders, including bipolar disorders, cyclothymic disorder, major depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Other complications may also arise, such as depression related to mental illness, persistent depressive disorders (dysthymia), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Mood disorders can affect a person’s mood and emotions, leading to symptoms such as extreme sadness, emptiness, and irritability. It is estimated that mood disorders account for approximately 13% of those receiving healthcare benefits. Nervous system and sense organs The nervous system encompasses the brain, sensory organs, nerves, and spinal cord. It also facilitates communication between all body parts and is responsible for making decisions. There are various disorders related to the nervous system, such as functional disorders (like epilepsy and neuralgia), infections (such as meningitis and polio), degenerative diseases (like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease), and structural disorders (like Bell’s palsy, brain or spinal cord injuries).

The refrigerator plays an integral part in the smooth functioning of the modern kitchen. It is not just a storage vessel. The refrigerator contributes to storing food, cooked and uncooked. It negates the need to produce shopping every other day. It plays a considerable part in meal planning and prepping for the upcoming week, making things easier for busy individuals. However, certain mistakes can contribute to the compromised functioning of the appliance and must be avoided. Overstuffing When one stuffs their refrigerator excessively, it can lead to spoiled food. The air circulation in the fridge is restricted when every inch of space is filled with groceries. This can cause uneven cooling and spoilage of food. To avoid this, adopting a “less is more” approach is important, allowing cool air to circulate freely and keeping all the items fresh. Disorganized interiors An untidy refrigerator can be compared to a disorganized wardrobe. Finding what one may need can be difficult, leading to items being overlooked and spoiling. To improve efficiency and make every ingredient easily accessible, it is important to introduce a system of organization. This can be achieved by grouping and labeling similar items, transforming the fridge into an orderly and convenient space. Temperature negligence The fridge’s thermostat is an essential component that affects the food’s freshness. If one ignores its setting, it can cause temperature imbalances affecting the lifespan of perishable food items. Therefore, it is important to take a moment to adjust the temperature settings and align them with recommended guidelines for optimal food preservation. Neglected cleaning routine Neglecting regular cleaning leads to unpleasant odors and provides a breeding ground for bacteria. Adopting a simple routine of clearing out expired items, wiping down surfaces, and addressing spills ensures a clean and hygienic fridge environment. Overlooking the freezer’s maintenance The freezer, often overlooked compared to the main fridge, has unique challenges.

Whether one wants to pack food at home or in a commercial setting, a food vacuum sealer can be considered. The machine helps increase the shelf life and freezer storage of food. The process removes oxygen, which is a leading factor in food degradation. However, using food vacuum sealers isn’t straightforward and may require prior knowledge if one is a first-time user. So, here are ten handy tips to help one use this product. Pick the right sealer Before sealing any food item, picking the ideal machine for the job is important. If one wants to vacuum seal liquids or foods in jars, a standard vacuum machine cannot remove the oxygen and seal it. Moreover, some home-use sealers may not accommodate the sizes of items one wants to preserve in the house. One should see if additional features are available and pick the right one. Those who wish to pack several items in less time should look for sealers that are fast enough to handle such loads. Freeze meats before sealing One of the best ways to preserve meat is to freeze them before sealing them. This is because many types of bacteria thrive at room temperature, and doing so could help minimize their growth. Furthermore, freezing food before thawing it first could make it safer and ensure the cuts are more delicious. Placing meat in the freezer before sealing helps preserve all juices during storage, which is helpful if one decides to cook later. Use folded wax paper to cover sharp food edges Sealing meats, beef jerky, and dehydrated foods is tedious, especially if the bag is thin. Even thick bags might get punctured because of the sharp edges these foods may have. One could use wax paper to cover these sharp edges and serve as a layer of protection.

The esophagus or food pipe transfers food to the stomach. However, it can get inflamed due to conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE). In EOE, eosinophils release substances in surrounding tissues that lead to inflammation. This causes the organ to contract and abscesses or ring-like projections to form. EOE can be triggered by acid reflux or food allergies. To manage the condition, here are some signs and symptoms of EOE that one should not ignore: Symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE) The symptoms of EOE may vary among adults and children, although certain symptoms are common in both. So, here are the signs and symptoms of EOE among children and adults: Symptoms of EOE in adults Studies have shown that EOE in adults usually shows up in the form of strictures, rings, and narrowing of the esophagus. As a result, adults with EOE may have these symptoms: Difficulty swallowing One of the classic symptoms of EOE is difficulty swallowing. The technical term for this symptom is dysphagia. In usual circumstances, one may face dysphagia if they gulp down their food, but the symptom shows up for those with EOE even when they chew their food well. Acid reflux Acid reflux is usually a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a health condition closely related to EOE. But in many cases, those with EOE also experience GERD symptoms like acid reflux, wherein stomach acid flows back to the esophagus and causes irritation. Food impaction As eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) accumulate in the food pipe, food may become stuck in one’s throat when one has EOE. This might lead to choking and severe discomfort. Chest pain Symptoms like dysphagia and food impaction may cause severe chest pain among those with EOE. Although chest pain may also be a symptom of other conditions, it may indicate EOE if one experiences its other signs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that affects one’s joints. In some cases, it can also damage several other body systems like blood vessels, the heart, lungs, eyes, and skin. It is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when your immune system starts mistakenly attacking your body’s tissues. The condition affects the joint’s lining, resulting in painful swelling, which can later cause joint deformity and bone erosion. Here are some treatment measures for rheumatoid arthritis: Treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis Actemra® It is a prescription, FDA-approved biological therapy for relief from rheumatoid arthritis. Actemra ® helps lower the inflammation in the body by directly blocking the action of a protein in your body called interleukin-6 (IL-6). Your doctor may administer it as a subcutaneous or intravenous injection. The former is administered at home or at a medical facility, but the latter is given solely at a medical facility. Plaquenil It is an FDA-approved prescription treatment that helps treat acute and chronic rheumatoid arthritis. It helps manage symptoms such as stiffness, inflammation, joint pain, and swelling. It is to be taken exactly as per the recommendation of one’s primary healthcare professional. Rinvoq® Rinvoq ® helps treat moderate to severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis in adults when tumor necrosis factor blockers were used but could not be tolerated or did not work well. This treatment option can affect your immune system adversely, making you susceptible to fatal or severe infections. So, get in touch with your doctor if you experience weight loss, diarrhea, skin sores, cough, tiredness, fever, aches, chills, or a burning sensation while urinating. Trexall It is a treatment measure for severe rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It is an antimetabolite treatment. Trexall not only helps manage swelling in the joints, but it can also help decrease damage to them and any long-term disability due to the condition.

Food gets broken down into glucose by the body to release energy for its functioning. Most meal plans combine fats, proteins, sugars, and other essential carbohydrates vital for healthy growth and organ function. However, people with diabetes should be careful about seemingly healthy foods as it can trigger a spike in their blood glucose levels. Here are different foods that are bad for diabetes and should not be eaten regularly: Various foods that are bad for diabetes patients Fruit juices and other drinks Sugar consumption via beverages can spike insulin levels drastically. Did you know that lots of seemingly healthy store-bought fruit smoothies, sports drinks, bottled juices, and sodas can spike blood sugar levels too? Also, natural fruit juices are not necessarily a healthy option as they are high in fructose. Aside from this, cola, iced tea, lemonade, and other flavored beverages are excessively high in carbs, sugar, and fructose. Their regular consumption can trigger insulin resistance, forcing healthy cells to reject insulin and extract glucose for energy.  Another crucial thing to remember is to avoid any type of spirit if you have diabetes. These contain empty calories and can worsen the condition significantly. Cereals, yogurt, and dried fruits Daily breakfast cereals are fortified with essential vitamins and nutrients that make up for a wholesome meal. However, most store-bought cereals are also high in carbohydrates and added sugars that can trigger an instant spike in blood glucose levels. Another seemingly healthy food, yogurt is an excellent probiotic necessary for the body to maintain and improve gut health. But, flavored yogurts or yogurt with assorted berries can cause more harm than good to diabetes patients. Additionally, while dried fruits can be had in moderation, it is advisable to stay clear of sweetened berries and raisins. Also, avoid consuming canned fruits as they contain preservatives and artificial sweeteners.