Urinating is a routine body function that helps get rid of the waste fluids in the body. Urine generally contains water, urea, creatinine, uric acid, chloride, sodium, potassium, sulfate, ammonium, phosphate, and other ions. Most people urinate around 6–7 times per day. One may not think about it, but there are wrong and right ways to pee, which can help ensure optimal bladder health. Here are seven of the most common peeing mistakes to avoid: Holding it in for too long Holding urine in can sometimes be unavoidable, such as at a concert or on a long drive. However, making a habit out of it can stretch the bladder, causing loss of bladder function and leading to urinary infections. Contrary to popular belief, urine is not sterile. It contains a microbial system. Holding pee in for too long can make one more susceptible to infections as the bacteria multiply. To protect the bladder, it is important to keep drinking enough water and urinating when one feels the urge. Not fully emptying the bladder when peeing Sometimes, when one is in a rush, they may not fully empty their bladder. This stretches the bladder and also increases the risk of infections. Incomplete urination may not always be intentional. This is known as urinary retention and may be caused by other health conditions like an enlarged prostate, bladder outlet obstructions like urethral strictures, pelvic organ prolapse, urinary tract stones, constipation, tumors, fibroids, and polyps. Further, tight pelvic floor muscles, urinary tract infections, prostatitis, sexually transmitted infections, or trauma to the pelvis, urethra, or penis can lead to urinary retention. If one notices that their bladder does not empty fully after urination, they speak with a general physician or urologist. Some of the common symptoms of urinary retention include pain or swelling in the lower abdomen, frequent urinating in small amounts, having an urgent need to urinate, and having a slow stream.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older. It is also meant for individuals with disabilities or end-stage renal disease. So registering for the program could help cover various healthcare costs if and when required. However, one could overlook key details when signing up for Medicare, and the amount they pay may exceed the benefits. So, here are a few common Medicare mistakes to avoid during enrollment: Not signing up on time Delaying signing up for Medicare can slow down the entire process. When approaching age 65, one should enroll during the initial enrollment period (IEP). The seven-month enrollment timeframe includes three months before one turns 65 and three months after. If one does not sign up during the IEP, they will get another opportunity to do so during Medicare’s annual general enrollment period (January 1 to March 31 each year). But given the late registration, the monthly premium for Medicare Part B, which covers doctor visits and other outpatient services, may cost more. So, those who sign up during the general enrollment period may incur a late fee. Not considering out-of-pocket costs Although Medicare usually covers a large portion of healthcare costs for those enrolled in the program, there are certain expenses that one might have to cover themselves. So, it is better to be prepared for these out-of-pocket costs to avoid surprises when healthcare expenses are due. A few elements of Medicare that one should consider include monthly premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Missing the special enrollment period Those aged 65 or older may lose their health insurance coverage when they stop working. The coverage may also lapse when the insurance one has through their spouse concludes. When one finds themselves in this situation, they usually need to sign up for Medicare under the Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which does not involve a penalty.

Cholesterol is a fatty wax-like substance produced by the liver. It is categorized into Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), and Triglycerides. The body needs to maintain low LDL and high HDL levels to support overall health. Any imbalance in these levels can trigger high cholesterol, leading to chronic health complications like heart disease. While there are no direct symptoms, the complications mentioned below point toward high cholesterol in the body. Early signs of increasing cholesterol levels Cholesterol levels build up in the body undetected for a long time and are only noticeable when the buildup triggers health complications. Mild to moderate discomforts observed when the following problems develop are among the early signs of increasing cholesterol levels. Heart disease Cholesterol circulates in the bloodstream, carrying essential vitamins and minerals for cell maintenance. These nutrients also supplement essential functions for various organs. Blood circulation is continuous, so these cholesterol molecules repeatedly pass along the arteries and veins. An increase in bad cholesterol (LDL) causes plaque buildup and triggers blockage. Plaque buildup also results in the narrowing of arteries and veins, thus hindering natural blood flow. Chest pain, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, and pain radiating in the neck and jaw are early signs of increasing cholesterol levels. These symptoms are indicative of the blockages causing plaque buildup and interrupting circulation. Eventually, plaque buildup increases the risk of coronary artery disease among adults. Stroke and blood clots Blood pressure is a critical function that is regulated by the circulatory system. The heart pumps freshly oxygenated blood from the lungs to all body parts. Adults usually have a normal blood pressure of 130/80 that increases or decreases with the slightest change in physical activity. Here again, plaque buildup due to high levels of bad cholesterol in the body increases the risk of clots and blockages in the arteries.

The cells in our body need glucose from sugar to function at their best. We get this sugar from our food, which provides energy to all cells, including cancer cells. However, since these cells need almost twice as much energy, there could be a link between sugar and cancer. This could cause symptoms of cancer due to too much sugar intake. Therefore, here are some signs to look out for. Understanding the connection between sugar and cancer Excessive sugar consumption does not directly cause cancer, as sugar is not carcinogenic. However, consuming too much sugar in regular meals and snacks can negatively impact overall health. Processed beverages and foods containing added sugars can lead to health problems and increase the risk factor for cancer. Here are other ways sugar can increase cancer risk. By increasing Insulin resistance Consuming excessive sugar can lead to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance results from high levels of insulin, a hormone controlling blood sugar levels. When insulin levels have been high for decades, it can increase the risk of colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. By causing inflammation Excessive intake of dietary sugars has been known to cause health disorders related to a person’s metabolism. This can induce high levels of inflammation in the tissues of the body. This causes chronic inflammation. The combination of insulin resistance and chronic inflammation can add to cancer risk. By leading to oxidative stress The high sugar levels in a person’s blood can increase triglyceride production in the body. Triglycerides are fats that develop from unused calories in the body. An increased level of triglycerides can lead to several health problems, including oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can lead to cell injury and induce gene mutation. Both of these can play a key role in the development of cancer. Common signs of cancer due to excessive sugar While sugar intake does not cause cancer, excessive consumption can lead to several health disorders contributing to the risk.

Breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day. It kickstarts the body’s metabolism, supplies essential nutrients for organs, and provides energy for the tasks ahead. Individuals with cardiovascular health conditions are especially advised to be mindful of what they eat for breakfast and pick nutritious foods. This comprehensive guide explores a few heart-healthy breakfast ideas one can consider. It also explains the benefits of each recipe to help make informed choices. Oatmeal with berries Oatmeal is a heart-healthy breakfast superstar that is easy to prepare and digest. It is rich in fiber, which helps manage cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, lowering heart disease risk. Cook the oats with almond milk until creamy, add some fresh berries, and top it off with chia seeds. Oats contain beta-glucans, a soluble fiber that reduces LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol or “bad” cholesterol. Berries are loaded with rich antioxidants that actively combat oxidative stress and inflammation—risk factors linked to heart disease. Chia seeds additionally provide omega-3 fatty acids known to contain anti-inflammatory properties that support heart health. Avocado toast Avocado toast has gained popularity for good reasons. Avocado is a nutritious fruit with healthy fats that help lower bad cholesterol. This recipe needs the most basic ingredients, such as a couple of whole-grain bread slices, a fresh ripe avocado, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes to add some heat. Mash the avocado with lemon juice, spread it over a whole-grain toast, and sprinkle red pepper flakes. Voila! It is that easy to prepare. Avocado is full of monounsaturated fats, which can reduce LDL cholesterol levels. It is also a good source of potassium that helps regulate blood pressure. Whole-grain bread provides fiber that helps with digestion to control cholesterol levels further. Greek yogurt parfait Dessert for breakfast may sound odd. But this healthy dessert-ish recipe boasts some of the best nutrients and vitamins that, when combined, lower the risk of heart disease.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a rare genetic disorder that affects muscle strength and mobility. It commonly affects young boys, with symptoms developing during early infancy or childhood. Over time, the condition can lead to muscle deterioration. Here, recognizing the symptoms of DMD in time is crucial for seeking an early diagnosis and appropriate management options to slow down disease progression. So, here are a few things to know about the disorder: What is DMD? Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by the progressive weakening and wasting of muscles. It is one of the most common forms of muscular dystrophy, and it primarily affects young males. DMD is caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene that lead to the absence or dysfunction of dystrophin—a protein vital for muscle stability. This is an X-linked recessive disorder, meaning it primarily affects males. So, females can be carriers of the mutated gene without experiencing any symptoms, but males born to carrier mothers have a 50% chance of inheriting the mutated gene and developing DMD. Symptoms DMD often presents its initial symptoms in early childhood, usually between the ages of 2 and 4. So, it is important to keep an eye out for signs such as delayed motor milestones, difficulty standing, and frequent falls. Other symptoms are: Progressive muscle weakness: One of the hallmark symptoms of DMD is the progressive weakening of muscles. Those affected may experience difficulty climbing stairs, getting up from the floor, or lifting objects. As the disease advances, muscle loss becomes more apparent. Gait abnormalities: Children with DMD often exhibit an unusual walking pattern known as the “Duchenne gait,” which includes walking on toes, waddling, and a tendency to lean forward while walking. Enlarged calves: Another telltale symptom is calf muscle enlargement. Due to muscle degeneration, the calf muscles can become abnormally large, which is a condition known as calf pseudohypertrophy.

Black Friday is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year, and it’s not just for big-ticket items like electronics and appliances. Pet owners looking to score some fantastic deals on cat food this Black Friday can find many premium cat food brands like Royal Canin, Whiskas, and Purina being heavily discounted. Based on past year trends, here are the top 10 Black Friday deals one can expect in different cat food categories. Dry cat food Dry cat food is a staple in many households with cats. On Black Friday, shoppers can expect discounts on large bags of dry cat food from well-known brands such as: 1. Inaba, Temptations, and Greenies discounted their dry food treats or kibble by up to 50%. 2. On the other hand, Chewy discounted their packs of lickable treats in different flavors, from chicken to scallops, by 46% through a promo code. Wet cat food multipacks Wet cat food can often be expensive, but Black Friday deals frequently include multipacks at a fraction of their regular cost. Shoppers should look for bulk offers on their preferred wet food brands to save money while ensuring their feline companions have a varied and enjoyable mealtime experience. 3. Last year, on Black Friday, Amazon gave a 28% discount on Catit Creamy, a versatile 50-treat lickable cat treat that could also serve as a food topper. 4. Chewy discounted a 20-pack of lickable puree tubes by nearly $20, allowing cat owners to treat their feline friends to moisture-rich snacks. This cat food came in four flavors: chicken, shrimp, chicken and cheese, and scallop and chicken. 5. The Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers Poultry and Beef wet cat food variety pack dropped from $22 to $19, offering a 13% discount. Grain-free options Black Friday often provides deals on specialized cat foods for cats with dietary restrictions or those who prefer grain-free options.

About to head out for an exciting beach vacation? The joy of lying in the sand or heading for a swim in the cool water is unmatched! However, in the days of planning and anticipation, many people often forget to take care of some of the basics, which could dampen the fun within no time. Here’s a compiled list of ten ways to avoid ruining a fun beach vacay to ensure a leisure-filled getaway from the humdrum of daily life. Stay hydrated On warm sunny days, heading to the beach sounds like an absolute delight. If one plans to head to the sea/ocean for a swim, play beach volleyball, or even just lounge in the sand, there’s always a risk of getting sweaty because of the humidity. Sweating is the body’s way of cooling off. However, this may lead to dehydration, making one feel tired. It could also increase one’s risk of a heat stroke. Sipping on water or fluids and staying hydrated is important for a great day out at the beach. While adequate water consumption depends on one’s age, activity levels, and the local weather conditions, people must focus on drinking at least 2-3 liters of water daily. Use skin protection When stepping into the sun, one must take all necessary precautions to avoid sunburns and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Follow these guidelines set by the American Association of Dermatologists when choosing a sunscreen: Pick a sun-blocking sunscreen with at least SPF 30 Use a broad-spectrum sunblock that protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays Pick a water-resistant sunscreen Apply about an ounce of sunscreen from head to toe and massage it thoroughly before stepping out into the sun. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours to get adequate protection from the sun. Additionally, to enhance skin safety, bring a beach umbrella and wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt.

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.

From managing finances to shopping on ecommerce sites and paying bills, individuals rely heavily on the Internet today to fulfill several essential daily activities. After all, a speedy internet connection is well classified among the most fundamental necessities in the present time. A reliable internet service provider offers a speedy internet connection and the flexibility to pick from various internet packages. Therefore, here are some mistakes to avoid for a seamless and reliable internet connection: Underestimating or overestimating one’s bandwidth requirements A common mistake when choosing an internet service provider is failing to understand one’s bandwidth requirements. For example, if multiple devices are connected to the Internet at once or one utilizes the Internet frequently for downloading files and watching streaming videos, one would require more bandwidth. In contrast, one can opt for more reasonable internet packages in case of fewer bandwidth needs or if one uses the Internet only for basic activities. Evaluating one’s bandwidth requirements can help choose a service provider with the ideal internet package. Not checking for hidden charges Checking for potential hidden charges while choosing an internet service provider is essential to minimize overhead expenses and understand where one’s money is being spent. Some common hidden charges levied by internet service providers include equipment rental charges, installation fees, and activation charges. Not researching the different Internet service providers Different internet service providers may offer different internet packages at various rates. The best bet is to be flexible about the internet service provider to opt for and research all the available options. Comparing the features of the packages offered by different providers vis-a-vis the prices can help one pick the most suitable provider based on one’s requirements and budget range. Failing to read the service-level agreement carefully Internet service providers provide a service-level agreement to describe the responsibilities of both parties, i.e., the service provider and the customer.

Jeep vehicles are known for their ruggedness, off-road capability, and iconic design. But one question that often arises in the minds of prospective buyers and Jeep enthusiasts is, “How many miles do Jeep vehicles last?” But the answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as one would expect. There are a lot of variables to consider when estimating a long-term range when it comes to vehicle durability. This article explores in detail what there is to know about any Jeep’s mileage. Reasons for its extensive durability The question of how many miles Jeep vehicles could last ultimately depends on various factors, including maintenance, engine choice, driving habits, and environmental conditions. With proper care and maintenance, many Jeep owners have reported their vehicles reaching over 200,000 miles and beyond. Jeep’s dedication to durability and its iconic status in the world of off-roading make it a trusted choice for those seeking a vehicle that can go the distance, both on and off the road. Below are a few factors that make automobiles from Jeep one of the most reliable on the market: Robust build quality Jeep’s reputation for durability starts with its robust build quality. These vehicles are designed with off-road adventures in mind, so they’re constructed to withstand harsh conditions. Solid frames, sturdy suspension systems, and rugged drivetrains contribute to their longevity. Multiple engine options Jeep offers a variety of engine options, and the choice of engine may significantly impact a Jeep’s longevity. The inline-six and V8 engines are known for their robustness and might last longer than the smaller four-cylinder engines. Proper maintenance and careful driving habits are crucial for engine longevity. Exceptional resale value Jeep vehicles tend to hold their value well, which could be attributed to their reputation for longevity and reliability. This means that even if the owner decides to sell their Jeep after a certain number of miles, they may often recoup a good portion of the investment.

For most people, it is next to impossible to get through the day without using smartphones at least a few times. You need to make calls, check updates on the go, and even use smart navigation systems on your phone. But some smartphone habits can severely hamper productivity, affect your health, and may make you overly dependent on the gadget. So, here are five smartphone habits to keep in check: Using an alarm app Using your phone as an alarm clock might seem completely harmless. After all, apps on the phone let you set multiple alarms. But it never stops at hitting the snooze or dismiss button once you wake up. You will be tempted to check your phone for messages and social media, which will delay getting out of bed. Opt for a conventional alarm clock and keep your phone away from you at night to avoid checking anything after getting up. Ignoring software updates Smartphone care is as important as learning how to use the device in moderation. Many people make the mistake of postponing crucial software updates and granting necessary application permissions. These habits make the device extremely vulnerable to cyber-attacks that can access confidential data. Always keep your phone updated to ensure the latest security updates are installed. Using your phone before bedtime Never use your phone right before going to sleep. There are two simple reasons why this is a really bad habit: First, it strains the eyes at night as smartphones emit blue light that can affect vision with extended exposure. Second, there is always the fear of missing out on social updates or content that you haven’t had the chance to check out yet. You may very well end up spending more than a couple of hours scrolling through an endless loop of audiovisual cues, not realizing how it affects your sleep cycle.