Annual eye exams can help detect changes in vision and also aid in keeping eye infections and diseases at bay. While many eyesight issues can develop due to age and existing health conditions, certain daily habits can increase the risk of such problems. While an ophthalmologist can help one find solutions to correct, improve, and resolve vision-related issues, one should also avoid doing the following things to improve eye health:  Things to avoid Not choosing nutrient-rich food The human body needs nutrients and minerals to carry out vital functions. So, when one skips nutrient-rich meals, it can lead to a deficiency that can affect overall health, including vision. Further, a vitamin deficiency can damage the optic nerve. So, one should choose foods that provide essential nutrients; for instance, foods like beans and fresh fruits and vegetables like kale, spinach, and lemon are great additions to meal plans. Excessive sun exposure One of the worst things that can hurt the eyes is staring at the sun. Typically, looking at the sun without any protective gear can cause a burning sensation. Here, the damage to the retina develops within a few seconds and causes discomfort. So, healthcare professionals recommend using special-purpose solar-filtered lenses to protect the eyes from such harm. Staring at screens for long periods Today, people depend heavily on electronic devices such as computers, TVs, smartphones, and tablets. Studies have shown that people of all ages blink less when looking at a screen, which can lead to dryness and strain in the eyes. If left untreated, these minor issues can contribute to poor vision. So, to steer clear of such problems and maintain eye health, one can use the 20-20-20 rule recommended by the American Optometric Association. According to the rule, one must take regular breaks from the screen every 20 minutes and try to focus on an object at least 20 feet away from them for 20 seconds.

Our teeth help us chew and digest foods, speak clearly, and give the face its shape. So, it is crucial to make food and lifestyle choices that keep the ectodermal organs safe and robust. One way to manage teeth health is by eating foods that serve as natural mouth cleansers. Conversely, individuals should also avoid some foods that may damage their teeth. Thus, here are nine foods to exclude from one’s meals for dental health. Bread Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, bread is usually a staple part of most meals. However, it is also one of the worst foods when it comes to maintaining teeth health. When one chews on bread, the saliva breaks down starches into sugar. Once the bread turns into a gummy paste-like substance in the mouth, it may stick to the crevices between teeth, which could lead to cavities. Therefore, if one wants to eat foods rich in carbs, one should look for less refined options like whole wheat. Whole wheat breads contain lower amounts of added sugars and do not break down quickly. Sour candies Most people enjoy munching on candies following a meal or at other times in the day. But this is one of the worst foods for an individual’s overall health, including teeth quality. Furthermore, sour candy contains varied types of acids that are tougher on the teeth than regular candy. Since they are chewed, the mixture may stick to the teeth for longer periods. Therefore, those who consume excessive amounts of sour candy are at a higher risk of experiencing tooth decay. Instead of sour candy, one could switch to a bar of chocolate, which is much easier to chew and wash away. However, the person should visit a dentist to determine if they should completely exclude sweets from their meal regime.

In dermatology, atopic dermatitis is a unique and uncommon condition emerging due to exposure to ionizing radiation. This specialized skin disorder presents a distinct set of challenges for those who experience it. This article explores atopic dermatitis from a third-person perspective, delving into its origins, symptoms, and treatment modalities. This article also sheds light on the intricacies of a condition that arises from the intersection of dermatology and radiation exposure. Some facts about atopic dermatitis in children Atopic dermatitis is a life-long (chronic) skin disorder common in infants and children. A child with a history of allergies or family members having atopic dermatitis has a higher chance of having atopic dermatitis. Itching, dryness, and redness are common symptoms. The treatment goals are to ease inflammation and itching of the skin, increase moisture, and prevent infection. Staying away from triggers is essential to manage the condition. The condition gradually improves or begins to disappear as a child gets older. Topical creams are usually the first line of treatment for children. Treatment options The management of atopic dermatitis is multifaceted, aiming to relieve symptoms, promote healing, and prevent complications. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s condition and may include the following approaches. Wound care and hydration Gentle cleansing of affected areas with mild, non-irritating cleansers is advised. Also, the doctor may suggest the application of emollients and moisturizers to alleviate dryness and itching. It is also recommended to use sterile dressings to prevent any possible infections in children. Topical solutions Doctors may prescribe treatments that may help with reducing inflammation and itching. Some ointments can be used in case any signs of infection are noticed. Always check with the doctor how often these treatments can be used and the quantity to ensure no side effects. Avoiding irritants Patients must avoid exposure to ionizing radiation and other potential irritants, including harsh soaps, detergents, and abrasive clothing, which can trigger reactions and flare-ups.

A cruise vacation can be exciting, with all kinds of onboard events to look forward to and a charming itinerary filled with nightlight, buffets, and the open seas. However, not every cruise package is created equal, and some trips on the sea can be underwhelming. So, it is important to do a little research before booking a cruise and choose top-rated options. Further, here are a few cruises to avoid for a hassle-free vacation: 1. Short cruises during spring break A cruise trip during spring break can seem ideal because of the perfect weather in places like the Caribbean. Even the ports are not too crowded, and one can take kids along during their school break. However, even college students get a break during this time and tend to book cruise trips. So, the cruise ship can get overwhelming and chaotic because of the noise and non-stop partying. Instead, one should book a cruise to the Caribbean during January if they want a more relaxing experience at the sea. If one must book one during spring break, they should look for less party-centric cruise lines. 2. First and last Alaska cruises of the season Destinations like Alaska are perfect spots for tourists because of the rainy weather and luscious green mountains they can experience. Here, cruises that sail in May and September are comparatively cheaper than June, July, and August packages. But for new travelers, this might not be the ideal cruise destination in May and September. This is because there is a high chance of experiencing bad weather during these months, with May being slightly colder and September bringing heavy rains in the region. It may also disappoint shoppers as the port shops at the beginning of the season are usually not fully stocked yet. Further, by September, these shops usually run out of prime goods and do not restock until next spring.

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.

The holiday season is set to come early this year, thanks to the enticing early bird Cyber Monday discounts. With unbeatable savings across electronics, fashion, home essentials, and beyond, retailers may announce discounts weeks and months before the sale day. Certain deals from last year can help predict upcoming early bird offers for this shopping season. So, here is a look at the early bird Cyber Monday deals to expect this shopping season: 1. Dell XPS 13 The sleek Dell XPS 13 laptop comes with a 13.4-inch screen, a 12th-Gen Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a spacious 512GB SSD. With an initial price tag just shy of $1,000, Dell’s Cyber Monday offer last year was a steal deal, with the laptop selling for $800. 2. Asus Zephyrus G14 Gaming laptops, like the Asus Zephyrus G14, can be quite expensive, so it is definitely worth waiting for deals on Cyber Monday to get these powerful gadgets. Last year, this powerful laptop belonging to the Asus ROG series, which originally sold for $1,400, was being offered at Best Buy for less than $900. The Asus Zephyrus G14 is among the highest-rated gaming laptops. The features that make it so powerful are an RTX 3060 graphics card, 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD, and a Ryzen 7-5800HS processor. What’s more? Its sleek design and easy portability make it an excellent pick. 3. Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds Last Cyber Monday, Sony earbuds saw a price drop of over $100. Initially priced at $280, these earbuds were available for just $178 at Best Buy. These earbuds come with robust noise-canceling capabilities, thanks to the Integrated Processor V1 and the LDAC codec, enhancing the user’s listening experience. These early bird deals from last year can give shoppers insights into this year’s Cyber Monday early bird discounts.

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

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

Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens the bones, causing them to turn brittle and fracture. About 10 million individuals in the country suffer from osteoporosis. The deterioration of bones occurs in one of five men. In women, the probability is higher with osteoporosis affecting one in three individuals. Doctors prefer various prescription methods to cope with the condition and may also recommend some food tips. Here we have a few tips for managing osteoporosis: Eat foods to improve bone health One way to avoid osteoporosis is by eating foods to improve bone health. Introducing foods rich in calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, and milk, can nourish the body with calcium. The element is a vital nutrient for the formation and maintenance of the skeleton. Foods rich in vitamin C, E, K, and B also help in improving bone health. A few foods rich in these vitamins are collards, kale, spinach, arugula, swiss chard, and beet greens. Adding these edibles to meals can also introduce minerals like magnesium, selenium, and manganese to improve the quality of bones. Furthermore, eating foods abundant in omega-3, such as salmon and eggs, nourish the bones and promote rigidity. The fatty acid can also curb inflammation that may relieve any pain a person feels in their joints. On the flip side, several foods are also bad for bones. These foods can trigger inflammation and also lead to other complications. Sodium is an element that can drastically impact bone health. A few foods rich in sodium include processed meats, deli turkey, hot dogs, and ham. The element is coupled with other nitrates and nitrites to preserve these foods and enhance their flavor. Other foods such as burgers, tacos, and pizzas also contain excessive salts. Drinking caffeinated products like energy drinks, beverages, and coffee are other unhealthy foods that can trigger osteoporosis.

The common cold and flu are both viral infections that affect the respiratory tract. While the symptoms of the conditions are the same, the flu is more severe. Patients experience sore throats, congestion, coughing, chest pain, headaches, sneezing, and high fevers. Although the conditions are common, they can be fatal if not managed. Thankfully, there are many ways to control the symptoms of a cold and the flu. The top three ways are: Begin the treatment Once the symptoms start to show, you must consult with a certified health practitioner and start your treatment. Fever, aches, and chills are pretty common symptoms of the cold and flu. Two common treatments prescribed by the doctor, in this case, are XOFLUZA® and TAMIFLU®.    XOFLUZA® It is a prescription treatment that is advised for people aged over 12 years. It is advised for people exhibiting the symptoms for not more than 48 hours. It is also prescribed for people aged 12 years and older who have been in touch with someone suffering from a cold or flu since the virus is highly contagious. Doctors do not prescribe this treatment for children below 12 years of age as it is still unknown if it is effective for kids in this age group.   TAMIFLU® It is an antiviral treatment that fights the virus in the body, stopping it from multiplying. Though it is not a substitute for the flu vaccination, the treatment is effective for kids aged two weeks and older suffering from influenza. It is also advised for people aged one year and older to prevent cold and flu.  Foods to have to manage cold and flu Being down and under the weather with the cold and the flu can leave you feeling fatigued and uninterested in food. But, to recover fast and effectively, you must consume the right food.

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.

Medicare is a federal health insurance initiative that covers treatment expenses for eligible U.S. citizens. The program provides healthcare benefits to senior citizens aged 65 and above. However, younger people with disability and those approved for Social Security disability insurance can also benefit from the program. As part of this initiative, most people in the country earn the right to enroll as taxpayers contributing to the system. Keep reading to learn more about Medicare. 11 facts about Medicare Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Usually, Medicare benefits can vary depending on the enrollment plan chosen by the beneficiary. It includes four enrollment plan options – Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D. But there are many important facts one must know about the initiative before enrolling. Some key facts regarding the program are listed below. Employees and employers contribute money toward Medicare benefits In most cases, the bulk of the money to provide Medicare benefits comes from employees and employers. It includes 1.45% of a worker’s wages, which adds up to 2.9% of the total amount. In the case of self-employment, the workers contribute 2.9% of their income towards the Medicare program. Not every U.S citizen qualifies for Medicare benefits A federal health insurance program, Medicare, and its benefits are provided to U.S. citizens aged 65 and above. However, young people with disabilities can also qualify for the program and its benefits. Furthermore, as a part of the rules and regulations, these people must have received social security disability benefits for 24 months or have a diagnosis that indicates their disability. It can include health conditions such as end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Contributions can only be made towards Medicare or HSA, not both Once an individual chooses to contribute towards Medicare, they can no longer contribute to a health savings account (HSA).