One may have to charge their smartphone at least once every day. Today, in addition to plugging the charger into the socket, one can opt for a wireless charger or power bank. Regardless of the power source, this simple task of charging might become more efficient with certain precautionary measures. Further, certain errors in the process could damage the phone’s battery. So, here are some mistakes to avoid when charging a phone: 1. Letting the phone charge all night Leaving smartphones plugged in at night is a serious mistake to avoid. While one may want to have a full battery when they wake up, this can lead to a waste of electricity and a higher risk of battery damage. A charging phone draws power from the socket and converts it into electricity to charge the battery. This process generates heat. Further, phones may be left in their cases or on soft surfaces like pillows or beds to charge all night. These surfaces lack proper airflow and ventilation, due to which heat might get trapped in the smartphone and cause a spike in temperature. This overheating and excessive charging can cause permanent damage to the battery. While many modern smartphones come with overcharge protection, leaving the device plugged in could still damage the charger’s onboard chip and prevent the failsafe from working in the future. 2. Charging in extremely hot rooms As charging electronic devices can generate some amount of heat, charging them in extremely hot environments might not be a good idea. On a hot summer day in a hot room (especially where the temperature goes over 90 degrees Fahrenheit), the smartphone could experience a sudden spike in body temperature. Such persistent overheating is terrible for the smartphone and its battery. As a workaround, one could charge their phones in cooler rooms or environments to prevent overheating.

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.

While beards have recently regained popularity, their significance has been recognized since prehistoric times. For example, ancient Greeks considered beards to be signs of wisdom and virility. They were also grown to provide warmth, and protection – particularly the mouth and lips – from harmful external agents. Today, beard grooming has become a breeze with the availability of kits and products. Here are some beard grooming mistakes to avoid for a well-maintained, debonair look: Not washing the beard and mustache before trimming Washing one’s beard and mustache before one starts trimming them ensures that the facial hair is well-hydrated, making it easier to cut. This process also gives one an idea of how the beard or stubble will appear once trimmed. Therefore, it is recommended to wash and dry one’s beard before trimming it. Overlooking the importance of a beard shampoo Since the beard surrounds one’s mouth, food particles can get stuck in it. It can also become a breeding point for natural oils and external pollutants, causing the accumulation of bacteria. A beard shampoo can help dislodge accumulated particles and ensure adequate personal hygiene. It is ideal to wash one’s beard once or twice a week and up to thrice a week for dry and oily skin, respectively. Finally, it is important to wash one’s beard with a beard shampoo to maintain the hair. Using a hair shampoo for the beard Contrary to popular belief, a hair shampoo should be used exclusively for the scalp hair and not for facial hair. This is because while a hair shampoo strips the hair off its natural oils and replaces them with the oils it contains, a beard shampoo retains the hair’s natural oils and nourishes it further with its constituents. It also helps enhance the beard’s smell. Not detangling knots while combing It is important to comb one’s beard and detangle its knots, preferably using a beard brush.

Tobacco consumption is associated with several health problems, including oral cancer, emphysema, heart disease, and stroke. Approximately 28.3 million adults nationwide smoke cigarettes, the most common form of tobacco use globally. With increasing awareness of its harmful effects, many individuals are taking active measures to quit tobacco. However, abstaining from it can pose several challenges, particularly during the initial phase. So, here are some ways to manage tobacco cravings after quitting it: Delay gratification The concept of “id, ego, and superego” by Sigmund Freud can help one understand this strategy better. According to Freud, the id is the primitive part of the mind that functions by the “pleasure principle,” driving one to fulfill primitive urges, including the urge to have tobacco-based products. On the other hand, the superego functions by the “morality principle,” seeking to restrain one from consuming tobacco. The ego balances these two aspects of the mind and is driven by the “reality principle.” Individuals trying to resist tobacco cravings should focus on the “ego” aspect of the mind, resisting the urge and telling themselves to wait for ten more minutes before giving in to the temptation. Within these 10 minutes, one should try finding other activities to distract themselves, delaying the urge further. This process can help one overcome tobacco cravings over a while. Opt for nicotine replacement therapy Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is a technique that provides individuals with nicotine in forms other than tobacco, helping them break the habit of smoking or chewing tobacco. Inhalers, nasal sprays, nicotine patches, gums, and lozenges are some ways nicotine is ingested in the body in low doses. This therapy has been found to increase the rate of quitting tobacco by 50-70%. Identify and avoid foods that increase the urge to smoke Some smokers may feel the urge to smoke immediately after having certain foods, such as caffeine, meat, and deep-fried or sugary foods.

  Managing payroll can be a complex affair that demands a lot of effort, documentation, and tracking. The ever-changing rules and guidelines have made the modern payroll management landscape more complicated than ever. As a result, errors arise that could result in delays in payments for employees, which may hurt businesses and prove costly for owners. To manage payroll processes more effectively, take a look at some common payroll mistakes and simple ways to avoid them.  Misclassifying employees and contractors  Every business must carefully categorize its employees (as employees or independent contractors) to dock the right pay. Errors while doing this result in having to look through old payment records to make adjustments to employee pay. It could lead to dissent among the team and cost the business. Moreover, according to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), all employees must get overtime pay for any hours worked over 40 hours per week unless they are explicitly classified as exempt. Making errors here could lead to FLSA-related fines for employers. To manage this, hire reputed payroll service providers and avoid listing freelancers as employees. Only hire contractors and freelancers through leasing companies to avoid any penalties for misclassification. Making calculation errors Making errors in payroll calculations can also cost businesses money and labor. These generally include overpaying or underpaying employees, making faulty retroactive payments, missing the first paycheck for new hires, deducting the wrong amount for benefits, etc. According to a study by the American Productivity & Quality Center, these errors take anywhere between two to ten days to be resolved. This can add to the team’s stress, as well as to the employee’s frustration. If this happens, ensure that an employee payroll error letter is sent with complete transparency regarding what happened and the measures taken to rectify the error.

Jeep is one of the most popular brands in the country, and it is known for manufacturing rugged, all-terrain vehicles that do not compromise on features or comfort. Its vehicles can be quite expensive, and it is, thus, a long-term commitment, and one must look into factors like the budget, seating space, infotainment, and more. If one is considering a vehicle from the brand, here are the most popular Jeep vehicles from 2024 to note. 2024 Jeep Wagoneer The Wagoneer is a full-size SUV from Jeep that is highly popular for its luxurious interiors. It is an 8-seater car with 3 rows of seating. The front row seats come with in-built heating and ventilation systems and also have powered recline and lumbar adjustments. Here are a few details about the Jeep Wagoneer’s interior dimensions: Headroom: 41.3 inches in the first row, 40 inches in the second row, and 39 inches in the third row. Legroom: 40.9 inches in the first row, 42.7 inches in the second row, and 36.6 inches in the third row. Shoulder room: 66.1 inches in the first row, 65.2 inches in the second row, and 64.4 inches in the third row. Besides the spacious interiors, the 2024 Wagoneer also delivers in terms of other features such as infotainment technology and driver assist technology. Infotainment: It comprises a Uconnect 5 system with a 10.1-inch screen, which is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Heads-on display: The Wagoneer also comes with a heads-on display feature, which projects essential driving information (like speed limit) on the windshield. Driver-assist features: Among its various driver-assistance features, it includes front and rear parking sensors, blind spot warning, and predictive brake assist. 2024 Jeep Wrangler The Wrangler is of the most iconic Jeep cars to date. Its 2024 version continues to have its signature look, perfectly combining the past’s grandeur with the advanced features of the present.

Psoriasis is a type of autoimmune skin disorder marked by chronic inflammation and a rapid overproduction of skin cells. This chronic condition leads to an overactive immune system, affecting the whole body. It is more common among adults, especially those aged between 40 and 59 years . There are several types of psoriasis ; the most common one is plaque psoriasis. External factors like skin injury, throat infection, or certain treatment options usually cause psoriasis. Warning signs of psoriasis In psoriasis, people can develop different signs and symptoms, varying from one person to another. The symptoms also depend on which type of psoriasis one has . If one experiences any of the common warning signs of psoriasis, they should seek medical help. Plaque Psoriasis forms thick, red patches on the skin that are often covered with silvery flakes on the skin called scales. People can notice significant and sudden changes in the way their skin looks. The raised, inflamed patches, seen mainly on the elbows, scalp, knees, and lower back, can surface anywhere on the body. Sometimes, these patches merge, creating larger patches that may be sore to tough or cause irritation. One may get a sensation of itching the affected area constantly. The appearance of plaque psoriasis can also differ based on one’s skin tone. For example, those with lighter skin pigmentation may see pink or red patches with silvery scales , while those with comparatively darker pigmentation can see purplish or brown patches with gray scales. Issues with nails At times, especially in nail psoriasis, one can see changes in their fingernails and toenails. Depending on the severity of the condition, one can notice white, yellow, or brown discoloration, which can look like drops of oil or blood under the nail plate, pits, or lines across the nails.

Regular cleaning of home water tanks is crucial to maintaining the quality and safety of the stored water. The process helps remove sediment, bacteria, and other contaminants while prolonging the tank’s lifespan. This article will present a comprehensive, step-by-step process for cleaning your home water tank. Additionally, we will discuss important safety measures to consider throughout the cleaning process, ensuring the well-being of yourself and your household. Step-by-step process to clean a water tank Here are the steps to clean a water tank: Conduct a thorough inspection of the water tank Before initiating the cleaning process, it is important to assess the condition of your water tank. The inspection can include the tank’s depth, the debris’s location, dirt and other sediments that need to be cleared, the tank’s design, and its overall condition. You can also go over the tank and look for potentially risky cleaning areas. A risk assessment helps avoid mishaps and ensures a smoother cleaning process. Disinfect the tools Cleaning a tank may require using many tools, including bleach, a mop, a vacuum that can be either dry or wet, and a pressure washer or pump if needed. These tools may have been stored for an extended period and are likely to harbor bacteria. So it’s important to disinfect them thoroughly before use. Skipping this step would transfer the contamination to the water tank and, ultimately, to the water you consume. To maintain hygiene standards, you can prepare a solution of one part bleach to four parts hot water in a clean bucket and wash the tools. Drain the water tank It’s important to ensure that the water tank is empty before beginning the cleaning work. Open the exit valve to release the water, preventing localized flooding. Collect any remaining water using a bucket. Remember to conserve water by utilizing it for other purposes, such as watering plants or cleaning outdoor areas.

Prostate cancer, the second most prevalent cancer among American men, often remains hidden until it reaches advanced stages. Typically, the disease progresses slowly, making it challenging to detect in its early stages. As it advances, prostate cancer can affect nearby organs, including the bladder. This article explores the subtle yet crucial signs of bladder damage caused by prostate cancer, shedding light on the importance of early detection and timely intervention. The Interconnected Anatomy Understanding how prostate cancer can harm the bladder requires insight into the intricate interplay between these two vital structures. The prostate gland is beneath the bladder, encircling the urethra, which is a tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. This close proximity means that any malignancy within the prostate can potentially infiltrate the bladder, causing a range of complications. Silent Signals: Signs of Bladder Damage Bladder damage resulting from prostate cancer may manifest in several subtle ways. Being aware of these signs can significantly aid in early detection and better management of the disease. Urinary Frequency and Urgency One of the earliest signs of bladder damage due to prostate cancer is an increase in urinary frequency and urgency. Men may find themselves rushing to the bathroom more frequently and feeling an urgent need to urinate even when the bladder is not full. This is often attributed to the pressure exerted on the bladder by the enlarging prostate tumor. Weak or Interrupted Urine Stream As prostate cancer progresses, it can lead to a weakened or interrupted urine stream. This occurs because the tumor obstructs the urethra, making it difficult for a free flow of the urine. This symptom is often mistaken for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous condition that also affects the prostate and urinary function. Blood in Urine (Hematuria) Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is another concerning sign of bladder damage caused by prostate cancer.

Stomach cancer and desmoid tumors are serious health conditions characterized by the unchecked growth of abnormal cells or tissues in one’s body. These diseases primarily affect the stomach and adjacent bodily structures, potentially impacting one’s overall well-being. Understanding how these conditions affect one’s organs, their different features and similarities, early signs, and available treatment options is essential for proactive healthcare management. Here is what one needs to know about both conditions: Gastric cancer and desmoid tumors – What they are Gastric cancer is also known as stomach cancer. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the inner stomach lining. These cells accumulate, forming a tumor that can invade nearby tissues and, in later stages, spread to distant parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. Genetic factors, previous stomach conditions like GERD or ulcers, or overexposure to coal, metal, or rubber can influence stomach cancer. Desmoid tumors, on the other hand, are abnormal growths that develop from the body’s connective tissues. Connective tissues serve as a support and link between one’s bones, ligaments, and muscles. A desmoid tumor is an extremely rare disease and usually grows slowly. Unlike cancer, these tumors don’t spread to other body parts. They are non-cancerous in nature, but they can cause problems because of their local growth. They tend to grow and press on nearby structures, leading to symptoms like pain or limited movement. Genetic mutation, high estrogen, pregnancy, or bodily trauma are some risk factors for desmoid tumors. Types of desmoid tumors Medically, three types of desmoid tumors are determined by their location. When tumors form in one’s stomach region, including the upper abdomen, they are called abdominal wall desmoid tumors. When the tumor affects one’s tissues that connect the stomach wall and intestines, it is termed an intra-abdominal desmoid tumor.

Water retention is a common issue characterized by the excessive accumulation of fluid in the body’s tissues. This can lead to swelling, discomfort, puffy face, swollen eyelids, and bloating. Various factors can cause water retention, including hormonal changes, ongoing treatments, and certain medical conditions; however, food also plays a significant role. So, here are a few common foods that can cause water retention and those that help manage the issue: Foods that cause water retention Salty snacks One of the most significant contributors to water retention is the intake of high-sodium or salty foods. Sodium is an essential mineral that helps maintain fluid balance in the body. However, an excess of sodium can increase water retention. This is because the body retains water to dilute the excess sodium, leading to swelling and bloating. So, salty snacks like potato chips, nachos, burgers, pizzas, pickles, and instant noodles are notorious for their high sodium content and should be limited to reduce fluid retention. Caffeine Caffeine, usually found in coffee and some energy drinks, acts as a diuretic, causing an increase in urine production. This disrupts the balance of fluids within the body and leads to swelling. So, one should avoid or limit the intake of caffeinated beverages when experiencing fluid retention. Canned foods Canned soups, refried beans, and vegetables are often packed with sodium to enhance flavor and preserve the foods. Eating such foods regularly can lead to increased water retention. So, one should consider opting for homemade soups with fresh ingredients and less salt as an alternative. Processed meats Processed meats like bacon, salami, sausages, and deli meats are rich in sodium and additives that can exacerbate water retention. As an alternative, one can consider choosing lean protein sources such as grilled chicken or turkey breast or plant-based options like tofu, tempeh, or legumes like lentils and chickpeas, which have lower amounts of sodium.

The Black Friday shopping season brings a lot of cheer and excitement to people looking to save on their purchases. During this time of the year, stores roll out splendid deals on gadgets, electronics, home furnishing, apparel, makeup, and more. It’s a brilliant opportunity to stock up on gifts and goodies for everyone. While the official deals have not been announced yet, shoppers can expect these 50 Black Friday sales in 2023. Electronics Insignia 65-inch F30 Series 4K UHD Smart Fire TV Looking for a smart TV with great specs but on a budget? This one from Insignia is a great buy. During the Black Friday sales, it’s expected to be marked down to as low as $379.99 (originally $549.99). It features Fire OS, 4K Ultra HD resolution, DTS Studio Sound, and an Alexa voice remote. Apple AirPods (2nd Gen) Looking for a new pair of earphones but don’t want to spend too much? The second generation of Apple AirPods is expected to sell for $99 (marked down from $159) this Black Friday. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) Customers may get $20 off the AirPods Pro. They provide improved sound quality, battery life, and noise cancellation. Originally $249, the device is expected to retail for $229.99 during the sale period. Lenovo IdeaPad 1i The Lenovo Ideapad 1i might be one of the cheapest laptops on the market around Black Friday. Usually priced at $249.99, it may be on sale for as low as $99.99, so everyone can fulfill their basic computing needs without breaking the bank. Oculus Quest 2 (128 GB) Black Friday bundle Black Friday might be the best time to pick up the Oculus Quest 2 VR headset. It’s expected to be on sale for $349.99 (down from $469.99) as a part of a bundle that includes games like Beat Saber and Resident Evil 4 VR.