As winter approaches, the chances of catching a common cold increase. This means many people will be sneezing, sniffling, and maybe even coughing during the flu season. While there are various preventive measures like vaccine shots, immune-boosting treatment options, and home remedies, one crucial aspect is often overlooked – avoiding germ-infested places. To stay safe during the flu season, it’s important to take care of oneself, especially around places that are hotspots for respiratory illnesses. Public restrooms It is no secret that public restrooms are breeding grounds for germs. The handles of faucets, toilet flush levers, and door handles can all harbor germs easily. This includes viruses that may be responsible for respiratory illnesses. Plus, the damp environment of the restroom and the high traffic of people only make things worse. One can use paper towels or their elbows to touch and use faucets, flush levels, and door handles. This way, one can avoid contamination by minimizing contact. Public transportation seats and door handles Public transportation, such as cabs, buses, subways, and trains, carries a lot of passengers on a daily basis. It is impossible to know if any of these passengers are carrying respiratory infections. The door handles and seats that were touched by previous passengers are also potential breeding grounds for germs.

Staying healthy involves caring for multiple aspects of the body, including the teeth. But this must be done by eating healthy foods or following other hygiene routines. Keeping the teeth in top health also depends on one’s ability to avoid unhealthy habits, such as certain meal choices that may worsen oral health. Here are some of the worst foods that one should avoid to improve the condition of their teeth. Ice Many enjoy munching on ice because it is often fun and can help cool the body. However, doing so can also prove otherwise, especially regarding oral health. Ice is a hard substance that may affect the enamel. It could also result in chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. Biting into ice may also adversely affect and loosen one or more crowns in the mouth. However, if one wishes to enjoy ice, they could add it to their beverage or a glass of water instead of chewing it directly. Bread Bread is common in most people’s meal plans, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It can be enjoyed by toasting it or spreading it with something delicious. Unfortunately, bread is one of the worst foods for dental health. When we chew bread, it turns into sugar due to the interaction with saliva.

Gout is a form of arthritis that develops when someone has hyperuricemia or high levels of uric acid in the body. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints. Although it mainly affects the big toe, it can also spread to other toes, the foot, heel, or knees. Flares or attacks typically occur at night and can last for 3-10 days. Lifestyle changes, such as food management, can help prevent gout attacks. How does food trigger gout? Purines are chemical compounds that occur naturally in the body, as well as are part of the food one consumes. As purines are broken down in the digestive system, uric acid is created as a byproduct. This is either reabsorbed in the body or passed out by means of urine and feces. However, when the body cannot process high levels of uric acid, it builds up in the body, increasing the risk of gout. Foods that may trigger gout Those living with hyperuricemia or gout must check with their healthcare practitioner if they should limit or avoid certain high-purine foods. Some of the most common food triggers include: Red meat Red meat, including beef, lamb, and pork, contains high levels of purines like hypoxanthine and adenine, as compared to other foods.

It is quite normal to experience heartburn and acid reflux occasionally. This happens when the sphincter at the base of the esophagus does not close up, allowing backflow of stomach acid. Overeating, immediately lying down after eating, or eating less are a few common causes. Certain foods, like caffeinated beverages and fried foods, can trigger acid reflux. However, some foods help in relieving heartburn and acid flux. Here’s what to have when experiencing heartburn symptoms: 1. Whole grains like rye The grains that retain the entire part of the seed, including the bran, germ, and endosperm, are known as whole grains. These are usually consumed in their whole form or ground into a powder. Compared to refined grains, whole grains are a rich source of fiber, iron, B vitamins, selenium, folate, magnesium, potassium, and other nutrients. Moreover, these have a low glycemic index. Brown rice, rye, barley, oats, quinoa, amaranth, and buckwheat are some common examples of whole grains that can help manage heartburn. Pastas and breads made from these grains can be helpful for meals. 2. High-fiber vegetables like carrots Vegetables with high fiber content keep one satiated for a long time, making them feel full. This helps avoid overeating, which is one of the major causes of heartburn.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an inflammatory condition that primarily affects one’s esophagus. The condition may not lead to life-threatening health complications, but it affects one’s overall quality of life. The exact cause of EoE is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal immune response to certain allergens. Understanding the cause, triggers, symptoms, and treatment options for EoE is important for timely intervention and maintenance of one’s esophageal health. What is eosinophilic esophagitis? The esophagus is a tube-like part of the human body responsible for guiding food from the mouth to the stomach during digestion. Certain individuals may have a chronic immune response to certain allergens and develop this condition. EoE is characterized by the presence of a high number of white blood cells called eosinophils in the lining of the esophagus. This unexpected presence of eosinophils can lead to inflammation and irritation of the esophagus, resulting in difficulties like trouble swallowing, chest discomfort, and food blockages. Foods to avoid for EoE Finding and eliminating foods that worsen symptoms is a common strategy used for managing eosinophilic esophagitis. This may involve removing specific items from one’s eating habits and slowly reintroducing them to identify the triggers.

Health conditions can cause visible symptoms, one of which is involuntary hand movements. The movement, often manifesting as tics or tremors, is a result of issues affecting the nerves or muscles. It is important to get such symptoms examined by a doctor immediately, especially when one often notices involuntary movements without an apparent cause. The doctor may conduct a series of tests to determine the cause, which could be one of the following conditions:  1. Tardive dyskinesia (TD) TD is a neurological condition that develops in the brain as a side effect of prescriptions necessary to treat psychiatric disorders and nausea. The prescription treatment in question blocks the dopamine receptors in the brain. The lack of the chemical dopamine may interfere with muscle function, causing mild to severe twitching, shaking, or jerking in the hands. Studies show that about 50% of those taking such prescription options might develop TD over the course of their treatment. While the condition might last for a long period, certain management options can slow down or stop its progression. Other symptoms associated with tardive dyskinesia might include uncontrolled muscle movement in the feet, face, or torso. Additionally, one might experience involuntary blinking, tongue movements, and other unintentional, uncontrollable movements.

Water retention, which is also called edema, can lead to a lot of discomfort, making one feel bloated all the time. A few factors can lead to water retention, such as hormonal fluctuations, side effects of specific treatments, and intake of certain foods. While not all the factors are in one’s control, an individual can surely avoid water retention by steering clear of some foods and including others in their food regimen. Read on to know what are some foods that can cause water retention and help reduce it. Foods that cause water retention High sodium foods Foods that contain high amounts of salt cause a lot of water retention. This is because table salt contains sodium, which causes one’s body to hold onto excess water, leading to bloating and increased blood pressure. Such foods include chips, pretzels, salted nuts, and other similar packaged foods. One can consume these in moderation or opt for low-sodium or salt-free alternatives to these snacks. Additionally, Spices and seasoning options like oregano, herbs, chili, and garlic powder can be used to add flavor.  Canned foods Canned foods, such as canned soups, vegetables, corns, stews, etc., are kitchen staples in most households. However, despite their convenience, they might not be the best choices if one is looking to prevent water retention.

Hemophilia is a rare genetic blood condition caused by the absence or deficiency of certain clotting factors. This increases one’s risk for bleeding and bruising. While there is no cure for hemophilia, treatment can help one lead an improved quality of life and live for as long as others who do not have hemophilia. This article aims to raise awareness about hemophilia, including its signs, symptoms, types, and varying levels of severity. Signs and symptoms of hemophilia Signs and symptoms of this condition may vary significantly from person to person. They generally tend to include: 1. Unexplained nosebleeds People with hemophilia may often experience unexplained, severe, and hard-to-control nosebleeds that may require medical intervention. 2. Bleeding in the mouth and gums Some people with hemophilia may experience bleeding in the mouth and gums or bleeding that is difficult to stop after losing a tooth. 3. Excessive bleeding Due to a deficiency of clotting factors in the blood, those with hemophilia may have to deal with excessive bleeding, even from minor cuts and wounds. Generally, bleeding tends to stop within minutes. However, with hemophilia, this may last for hours. As a result, those living with this condition are likely to have longer recovery times post-surgery or after undergoing other medical or dental procedures.

Hemophilia, a genetic bleeding disorder, requires individuals to be careful about their food choices. Managing hemophilia extends beyond clinical treatments; understanding which foods might exacerbate the condition is paramount. Certain foods, though generally beneficial, can present challenges for those with hemophilia due to their potential to interfere with blood clotting. Thus, individuals must learn about these to avoid adverse effects or worsening of symptoms. Accordingly, here are 12 foods to avoid for hemophilia. Garlic Garlic and onions, appreciated for their potential health benefits and ability to elevate foods, inherently contain natural anticoagulant properties. These properties can potentially escalate the risk of bleeding in individuals with hemophilia. While cooking these ingredients can slightly diminish their potency, it remains advisable to consume them in moderation. Both garlic and onions are versatile ingredients, and their flavors can often be imparted in cooking with smaller quantities, allowing for enjoyment without significant risk. Cranberries Although celebrated for their benefits for urinary tract health, cranberries can potentially interfere with blood clotting. Individuals with hemophilia are advised to exercise moderation when consuming cranberries and cranberry products, or avoid it altogether. Its consumption, especially at a supplemental level, may lead to an antithrombotic effect, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Leukemia is a type of cancer affecting white blood cells and bone marrow. While some forms of the condition are more common in those under 15 years of age, other types of leukemia mostly affect those over 55. The treatment here aims to eliminate cancerous cells, promote the production of healthy blood cells, and help in managing symptoms. Here are some common signs of leukemia that should prompt one to seek diagnosis and treatment: 1. Frequent infections The bone marrow is responsible for creating a type of white blood cells called lymphocytes. However, when affected by leukemia, the bone marrow produces white blood cells that never mature and instead multiply and enter the bloodstream. These abnormal lymphocytes are then unable to protect the body from infections and weaken the immune system. This makes it difficult to fight off pathogens and keep viral and bacterial infections at bay. So, if one falls sick more frequently and takes an abnormally long time to recover, they should consult a doctor. 2. Red spots on the skin If one notices small red spots on the skin, it may be a sign of leukemia. Abnormal white blood cells can disrupt blood clotting and make tiny blood vessels under the skin more fragile, resulting in these spots.