Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts

Thursday, 16 August 2018

Reasons Why We Choose Term Life Insurance

Life insurance is very important, especially if you have a family. Having a lifeinsurance policy in place is a wise and responsible decision, but it can be a difficult one to consider. No one wants to think about the consequences surrounding death. However, it’s important to make sure you do have life insurance in place to help cover costs and protect your family.


Life insurance policy can help take care of the expenses of funerals and last costs. This is critical in light of the fact that lacking satisfactory life coverage can include more despondency and weight your family. Having an extra security arrangement will help facilitate the budgetary weight on your friends and family when you kick the bucket.

The correct arrangement for you and your family can give a feeling that all is well with the world and true serenity. Securing a strategy when you begin a family, purchase a home, get hitched or resign can give confirmation and certainty to you and your friends and family.

Term disaster protection might be a decent alternative for you, particularly in the event that you are worried about the cost of life coverage. Excessively numerous individuals abstain from purchasing disaster protection since they fear high expenses.

Be that as it may, this might be a superfluous concern. Term disaster protection can be astandout amongst the most reasonable alternatives accessible. Term extra security implies that you pay a top notch that covers a specific timeframe.

In the event that you are investigating acquiring an extra security approach, you undoubtedly have effectively chosen that disaster protection is imperative to you.

Regardless of what phase of life you are in, extra security can be valuable. On the off chance that you are keen on a term life coverage strategy, scan online for organizations that enable you to acquire your arrangement on the web or via mail. This will accelerate the procedure and influence your purchasing to encounter less demanding.

Why We Need Health Insurance In Our Life

Regardless of whether you're one of the fortunate ones that never becomes ill, you ought to be set up if the most noticeably awful happens. It might appear to be costly however you'll express gratitude toward yourself later by acquiring medical coverage.

What Is Health Insurance?

Medical insurance is a type of insurance policy protection that covers the expense of an insured person's medical and medical costs. Depending upon the type of medical insurance protection, either the insured pays expenses out-of-pocket and is then reimbursed, or the insurance provider pays straight to the provider.

In health and wellness insurance policy terms, the "provider" is a clinic, medical facility, physician, lab, healthcare practitioner, or pharmacy. The "insured" is the proprietor of the medical insurance plan; the individual with the wellness...

Wednesday, 15 August 2018

Migraine – Cause, types, symptoms and how to avoid it?

Migraine
Migraine is a neurological condition that can cause multiple symptoms. It’s frequently characterized by intense, debilitating headaches. Migraines often run in families and affect all ages. The extreme pain that migraines cause can last for hours or even days.
Symptoms
Symptoms of migraine can start a while before the headache, immediately before the headache, during the headache, and after the headache. Although not all migraines are the same, typical symptoms include:
·         moderate to severe pain, usually confined to one side of the head but capable of occurring on either side of the head
·         severe, throbbing, or pulsing pain
·         increasing pain during physical activity or when straining
·         inability to perform regular activities due to pain
·         feeling sick and physically vomiting
·         increased sensitivity to light and sound, relieved by lying quietly in a darkened room
·         Some people experience other symptoms such as sweating, temperature changes, stomach ache, and diarrhea.
Fast facts on migraines:
·         Some people who experience migraines can clearly identify triggers or factors that cause the headaches, such as allergies, light, and stress.
·         Some people get a warning symptom before the start of the migraine headache.
·         Many people with migraine can prevent a full-blown attack by recognizing and acting upon the warning signs.
·         Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can eliminate or reduce pain, and specific medications can help some people with migraine.
·         People who have severe attacks can take preventive medicines.
Cause
The specific cause of migraines is not known, but there may be fluctuations in certain neurotransmitters, chemicals that send messages between brain cells. These changes may predispose some people to develop migraine headaches.
Types
Migraine without aura
A migraine without aura is more than just a headache. The pain alone is enough to stop you from carrying on your daily activities. And then there’s the nausea, maybe vomiting, and more.
Migraines with aura
Migraines with aura account for about a quarter of all migraines. Even if you get auras, you may not have one with every migraine. Some children and older adults may get an aura without later pain.
Chronic migraine
Chronic migraine is a distinct and relatively recently defined sub-type of Chronic Daily Headache. The International Headache Society defines chronic migraine as more than fifteen headache days per month over a three month period of which more than eight are migrainous, in the absence of medication over use. Episodic migraine is the other migraine sub-type, which is defined as less than 15 headache days per month.
Menstrual migraines
Menstrual migraines are primarily caused by estrogen, the female sex hormone that specifically regulates the menstrual cycle fluctuations throughout the cycle. When the levels of estrogen and progesterone change, women will be more vulnerable to headaches. Because oral contraceptives influence estrogen levels, women on birth control pills may experience more menstrual migraines.
Hemiplegic migraine
Hemiplegic migraine is a rare and serious type of migraine headache. Many of its symptoms mimic those common to stroke; for example, muscle weakness can be so extreme that it causes a temporary paralysis on one side of your body, which doctors call hemiplegia.
Migraine with brainstem aura
Migraine with brainstem aura (MBA) is a type of migraine headache with aura that is associated with pain at the back of the head on both sides. An aura is a group of symptoms that generally serve as a warning sign that a bad headache is coming. Auras may consist of dizziness and vertigo, slurred speech, ataxia, tinnitus, visual changes, and/or loss ofbalance. Although MBA can occur in men and women of all ages, they are most common in adolescent girls. The exact underlying cause of MBA is poorly understood. Migraines are likely complex disorders that are influenced by multiple genes, in combination with lifestyle and environmental factors.
Abdominal migraine
Abdominal migraine is a form of migraine seen mainly in children. It is most common in children ages five to nine years old, but can occur in adults as well. Abdominal migraine consists primarily of abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. It is recognized as an episodic syndrome that may be associated with migraine, as links have been made to other family members having migraines and children who have this disorder often grow into adults with migraine. Most children who experience abdominal migraine grow out of it by their teens and eventually develop migraine headaches.
Cyclic vomiting syndrome
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (US English) or cyclical vomiting syndrome (UK English) (CVS) is a chronic functional condition of unknown cause characterisedby recurring attacks of intense nausea, vomiting, and sometimes abdominal pain, headaches, or migraines. CVS typically develops during childhood, usually between ages 3 and 7; although it often remits during adolescence, it can persist into adult life.
Risk factors
Several factors make you more prone to having migraines, including:
Family history. If you have a family member with migraines, then you have a good chance of developing them too.
Age. Migraines can begin at any age, though the first often occurs during adolescence. Migraines tend to peak during your 30s, and gradually become less severe and less frequent in the following decades.
Sex. Women are three times more likely to have migraines. Headaches tend to affect boys more than girls during childhood, but by the time of puberty and beyond, more girls are affected.
Hormonal changes. If you are a woman who has migraines, you may find that your headaches begin just before or shortly after onset of menstruation. They may also change during pregnancy or menopause. Migraines generally improve after menopause. Some women report that migraine attacks begin during pregnancy, or their attacks worsen. For many, the attacks improved or didn’t occur during later stages in the pregnancy. Migraines often return during the postpartum period.
Migraine tests
Doctors diagnose migraines by listening to your symptoms, taking a thorough medical and family history, and performing a physical exam to rule out other potential causes. Imaging scans, such as a CT scan or MRI, can rule out other causes, including:
·         tumors
·         abnormal brain structures
·         stroke
Treatment
There is currently no single cure for migraines. Treatment is aimed at preventing a full-blown attack, and alleviating the symptoms that occur.
Lifestyle alterations that might help reduce the frequency of migraines include:
·         getting enough sleep
·         reducing stress
·         drinking plenty of water
·         avoiding certain foods
·         regular physical exercise
·         Some people also find that special diets can help, such as gluten-free.

Consider seeking further treatment if the above changes do not relieve the symptoms or frequency of migraines. The treatment of migraine symptoms focuses on avoiding triggers, controlling symptoms, and taking medicine.
Prevention
Until recently, experts recommended avoiding common migraine triggers. Some triggers can’t be avoided, and avoidance isn’t always effective. But some of these lifestyle changes and coping strategies may help you reduce the number and severity of your migraines:
Transcutaneous supraorbital nerve stimulation (t-SNS).This device (Cefaly), similar to a headband with attachedelectrodes, was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a preventive therapy for migraines. In research, those that used the device experienced fewer migraines.
Learn to cope. Recent research shows that a strategy called learning to cope (LTC) may help prevent migraines. In this practice, you are gradually exposed to headache triggers to help desensitize you to them. LTC may also be combined with cognitive behavioral therapy. More research is needed to better understand the effectiveness of LTC.
Create a consistent daily schedule. Establish a daily routine with regular sleep patterns and regular meals. In addition, try to control stress.
Exercise regularly. Regular aerobic exercise reduces tension and can help prevent migraines. If your doctor agrees, choose any aerobic exercise you enjoy, including walking, swimming and cycling. Warm up slowly, however, because sudden, intense exercise can cause headaches. Regular exercise can also help you lose weight or maintain a healthy body weight, and obesity is thought to be a factor in migraines.
Reduce the effects of estrogen. If you are a woman who has migraines and estrogen seems to trigger or make your headaches worse, you may want to avoid or reduce the medications you take that contain estrogen.

Saturday, 11 August 2018

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease(GERD) | Causes, Symptoms, Treatment


Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition, where acid from the stomach leaks up into the esophagus(gullet). It usually occurs as a result of the ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus becoming weakened. Read more about the causes of Gastro esophageal reflux. GERD causes symptoms such as heartburn and an unpleasant taste in the back of the mouth. It may just be an occasional nuisance for some people, but for others it can be a severe, lifelong problem. GERD can often be controlled with self-help measures and medication. Occasionally, surgery to correct the problem may be needed.

Symptoms

Everyone has experienced gastro-esophageal reflux. It happens when you burp, have an acid taste in your mouth or have heartburn. However, if these symptoms interfere with your daily life it is time to see your physician.

Other symptoms that occur less frequently but can indicate that you could have GERD are:
·         Acid regurgitation (retasting your food after eating)
·         Difficulty or pain when swallowing
·         Sudden excess of saliva
·         Chronic sore throat
·         Laryngitis or hoarseness
·         Inflammation of the gums
·         Cavities
·         Bad breath
·         Chest pain (seek immediate medical help)

Causes

Gastro esophageal reflux (GERD) is caused by frequent acid reflux.
When you swallow, a circular band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow into your stomach. Then the sphincter closes again. If the sphincter relaxes abnormally or weakens, stomach acid can flow back up into your esophagus. This constant backwash of acid irritates the lining of your esophagus, often causing it to become inflamed.

Risk factors

·         Conditions that can increase your risk of GERD include:
·         Obesity
·         Bulging of the top of the stomach up into the diaphragm (hiatalhernia)
·         Pregnancy
·         Connective tissue disorders, such as scleroderma
·         Delayed stomach emptying
·         Factors that can aggravate acid reflux include:
·         Smoking
·         Eating large meals or eating late at night
·         Eating certain foods (triggers) such as fatty or fried foods
·         Drinking certain beverages, such as alcohol or coffee
·         Taking certain medications, such as aspirin

Complications

Over time, chronic inflammation in your esophagus can cause:

Narrowing of the esophagus (esophageal stricture). Damage to the lower esophagus from stomach acid causes scar tissue to form. The scar tissue narrows the food pathway, leading to problems with swallowing.

An open sore in the esophagus (esophageal ulcer).Stomach acid can wear away tissue in the esophagus, causing an open sore to form. An esophageal ulcer can bleed, cause pain and make swallowing difficult.

Precancerous changes to the esophagus (Barrett’s esophagus). Damage from acid can cause changes in the tissue lining the lower esophagus. These changes are associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer.

Esophageal impedance test (measures the movement of substances in the esophagus)

Diagnosis of Gastro esophegeal reflux

Several tests may be used to diagnose GERD including:
X-ray of the upper digestive system
Endoscopy (examines the inside of the esophagus)
Ambulatory acid (pH) test (monitors the amount of acid in the esophagus)

Treatments for GERD



The main treatments for GERD are:

self-helpmeasures – this includes eating smaller but more frequent meals, avoiding any foods or drinks that trigger your symptoms, raising the head of your bed, and keeping to a healthy weight

over-the-countermedicines – ask your pharmacist to recommend an antacid or an alginate

strongerprescription medicines– including proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs)

You may only need to take medication when you experience symptoms, although long-term treatment may be needed if the problem continues. Surgery to stop stomach acid leaking into your oesophagus may be recommended if medication isn’t helping, or you don’t want to take medication on a long-term basis.

Foods that may help GERD symptoms

Until currently, GERD changed into no longer very well understood. There was little medical evidence to signify that converting the food plan could exchange the signs. A 2013 look at of over 500 humans observed that some ingredients appear to lessen the prevalence of GERD signs and symptoms.

Foods that may reduce symptoms of GERD include:

  • Protein from low-cholesterol sources such as tuna, salmon, cashews, almonds, and lentils
  • Certain carbohydrates, found in natural fruits, vegetables, and some grains
  • Vitamin C, for example in potatoes, may help to reduce symptoms
  • Fruits such as berries, apples, melons, peaches, citrus fruits, and tomatoes may help
  • Eggs, despite their cholesterol content, appear to reduce GERD symptoms
  • Fiber in the diet has been linked to fewer GERD symptoms. Researchers have noted that as people increase the levels of dietary fiber in their diet, the symptoms of GERD decrease.

Foods to Avoid if You Have GERD:

  • Foods that commonly cause allergies, intolerances or sensitivities

    : processed dairy products (raw or fermented dairy may be well-tolerated), grains and/or food products containing gluten, sometimes eggs or nuts, and synthetic ingredients found in processed foods.
  • Caffeinated drinks and carbonated drinks

    : These are often sweetened and also contain air which can make belching or gas pains associated with GERD worse. Some people also feel worsened symptoms after consuming egg whites or whipped cream which can trap air inside the GI tract.
  • Alcohol

    : Depending on your specific reaction, beer, wine and liquor may all contribute to symptoms, especially when consumed close to bedtime.
  • Cocoa and chocolate
  • High-sodium foods
  • Very fatty foods, such as fast foods, cheese, processed meats and fried foods
  • Refined grain products, including packaged snacks like cookies, chips, cereal bars, etc.
  • Sometimes spicy foods, such as those made with cayenne, cinnamon, chili pepper, hot sauce, etc.
  • Citrus fruits or juices
  • Tomatoes or food products made with tomatoes
  • In some cases garlic, onions or peppermint

Other Tips For Following a GERD Diet & Lifestyle:

  1. Eat Smaller Meals & Slow Down!
  2. Don’t Eat Close to Bedtime
  3. Increase Your Water Intake
  4. Keep away from Tight-fitting Clothing
  5. Manage Stress & Get Enough Relaxation
  6. Cease Smoking & Be Careful About Alcohol Consumption
  7. Get Regular Exercise
  8. Reach & Maintain A Healthy Weight
  9. Raise The Head of Your Bed
  10. Talk to Your Doctor About Your Medications

30 tips for Good Benefits of Amla/Amlaki/Gooseberry


Good Side of Amla/Amlaki/Gooseberry

Amalaki is a natural remedy long used in Ayurveda (the alternative medicine of India). Sometimes referred to as amlaor Indian gooseberry, Amalaki sources from Emblica officinalis (a tree native to tropical regions in southeastern Asia). The Indian gooseberry, known locally as Amla, is a tree that is famous for its nutrient rich fruits. It has been a common ingredient in the ancient Indian medicinal practice of Ayurveda. It’s a potent source of Vitamin C and also contains iron and calcium. Because it is so versatile, it has become a favourite among the health conscious masses.

Hair Care


Amla uses in many hair tonics because it enriches hair growth and hair pigmentation. It strengthens the roots, maintains color, and improves luster. Eating fresh gooseberry or applying its paste on hair roots improves hair growth and color. Amla oil is very popular in India because it has been shown to reduce the chances of hair loss and baldness. This quality is due to the carotene content of amla, as well as its iron content and antioxidant capacity, which reduces hair loss by not allowing free radicals to damage hair follicles or impact the hormones that can cause premature hair loss.

Slows Down Ageing

Amla is virtually a superfruit. It is full of antioxidants that are effective in reducing cell damage. It reduces the effects of free radicals (which are responsible for damaging protein, DNA, and cell membranes) and thus effectively combats the aging process.

Makes Skin Glow

Because it’s packed with vitamin C, Amla gives your skin a smooth and youthful look. It is known to exfoliate skin and remove dead skin cells. Amla juice can also use as a face mask. Simply leave it on your skin for 30 minutes and wash it off.

Amlafor Digestion



From an Ayurvedic perspective, digestion begins with the experience of taste and amla contains five of the six tastes, which include saile taste. Further, amlasharpens the sense of taste itself and so it is both stimulating and tonifying to the first stage of digestion. Amla also improves appetite and kindles agni (the digestive fire), which are both at the core of healthy digestion. Since it’s main taste is the sour. Amla stokes the digestive fire without aggravating pitta. And, amla cleanses and protects the liver, which plays a critical role in transforming food into physiologically useful nourishment. Because pitta and agni are so intimately connected, the health of the digestive fire suffers when pitta is aggravated.
Amla is particularly suited to clearing excess pitta from the digestive tract; its bitter taste and cooling energy help to flush excess heat out through the bowel. Amla can be especially supportive to digestion during the summer months when heat tends to accumulate in the body, particularly for those with pitta-predominant constitutions.

High Cholesterol

Amalaki may help prevent hyperlipidemia (a condition marked by abnormally high levels of cholesterol and other blood fats), according to a 2007 study from the British Journal of Nutrition. In tests on rats, the study’s authors found that Amalaki may help fight hyperlipidemiaby curbing oxidative stress.

Antibacterial properties

Amla berry extract has been shown to be an effective antibacterial against illness causing bacteria like staphylococcus and cholerae. It has even been demonstrated to combat ulcer causing Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
Improving liver function.
Studies show amla powder benefits include reducing oxidative stress on the liver by increasing master antioxidants glutathione and superoxide dismutase.

Cures A Sore Throat

If you’ve got a pesky sore throat problem, then Amla is the fruit for you. Amla juice mixed with a few pieces of chopped ginger and mixed with a tablespoon of honey has been proven to be an effective treatment for a cough and a sore throat.

Purifies Blood

Because it is packed with antioxidants, Amla works as a blood purifier. It also increases haemoglobin and red blood cells count.

Fights Against Heart Disease

High cholesterol is the leading cause of heart disease. By reducing the build up of bad cholesterol, Amlareduces the risk of heart disease. It also reduces clogging in the arteries by boosting good cholesterol or HDL. Studies have also shown its benefits in preventing the thickening of blood vessel walls, the first sign of heart disease.

Eye Care

Drinking Gooseberry juice with honey is good for improving eyesight and studies. It also improves near-sightedness and cataracts while reducing intra-ocular tension. This is mainly impressive carotene content. For that reason,it has long been known for its powerful effect on vision-related conditions. Including those that stem from the free radical activity. Vitamin A and carotenes reduce macular degeneration and night blindness while strengthening your vision before the age-related degeneration from free radicals can occur.

High Blood Pressure

A study published in Cardiovascular Toxicology in 2011 found that Amalaki may help prevent the development and progression of high blood pressure. In an experiment involving rats, scientists determined that antioxidants found in Amalaki may help normalize blood pressure in part by reducing oxidative stress.

Diabetes

Amalaki may help protect against diabetic complications. It suggests a 2012 study from the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. In the study, researchers found that treating rats with Amalaki reduced risk of diabetic complications. And improving the animals’ antioxidant status and neutralizing free radicals.[N.B: Zinc is also reduce diabetes complications and here is – Zinc benefits]

Cancer Protection

One of the most interesting and important areas of amla research is in the field of cancer prevention. Alongside its powerful antioxidant effects, the Indian gooseberry has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, chemopreventive, antiproliferativeand immunomodulatory properties that are beneficial in the prevention and treatment of cancer.

Osteoporosis and Arthritis Treatment

Certain cells known as osteoclasts are involved in bone loss in osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers found an amla extract was able to induce cell death in mature osteoclasts, thus potentially limiting the damage they can do to our bodies bones and joints.

Amlafor Rejuvenation

Amla is a highly revered rasayana (rejuvenative) for the entire system. Specifically, it promotes youthfulness, bolsters immunity, tonifies all the body’s tissues and promotes overall health and well-being. It is a brain tonic, it promotes memory, and its sattvic nature fosters subtle awareness, balanced emotions, and clarity of mind.

Calcium Absorption

One of the less discussed benefits of amla is how it helps the body absorb calcium in a positive way. Calcium is an essential component of our bones, teeth, and nails, and also ensures that we have beautiful lustrous hair. So, eating avitamin C-rich fruit like the Indian gooseberry is a great way to keep your body looking and feeling great.

Improves Metabolic Activity

Eating foods that are high in protein is one of the most important ways to stay healthy since proteins are an essential part of our body’s metabolic activities. Our enzymes can break down plant proteins into amino acids and reassemble them into usable proteins for our body. Protein is necessary for cellular growth, muscle development, organ health, and a wide range of metabolic activities that we need to remain healthy.

Treats Menstrual Cramps

The minerals and vitamins in amla combine to make it very useful in the treatment of menstrual cramps. Since it takes a while for the necessary elements to accrue in the body. It is better to consume amla on a regular basis so that its nutrients are always in the system and menstrual cramps can be prevented.

Increases Diuretic Activity

Any fruit that is diuretic in nature improves the frequency and volume of urination. Because urination helps your body release unwanted toxins, salts, and uric acid, consumption of Amla has a detoxifying effect on your body.

Prevents Formation Of Gall Bladder Stones

Extra cholesterol is the primary cause of gall bladder stones. Vitamin C converts the cholesterol into bile in the liver. Consuming Amlaregularly reduces the chances of a build-up of cholesterol as well as the likelihood of any pesky gallstones. It also keeps the gallbladder functioning well and in perfect health.

Anti-Inflammatory

It reduces the level of acid in the stomach and combats stomach inflammation. It also keeps the liver in check and through out unhealthy toxins in our body.

Strengthens Bones

Amla is excellent for strengthening bones. Not just because of its high calcium content, but also for the fact that it lowers osteoclasts. These are the cells responsible for breaking up bones. Thus regularly consuming Amlawill result in stronger bones.

Cools The Body

Amla has three times the vitamin C of an orange. Vitamin C improves tannin levels in the body that shield from heat and light. It keeps your skin cool in the summer by regulating the heat.

Purifies Blood

Amla works as a blood purifier because it packs with antioxidants. It also increases haemoglobin and red blood cells count.

Relieves Diarrhea & Dysentery

Due to its strong cooling and laxative properties, Gooseberry is a useful component in remedies for diarrhea anddysentery. It provides great relief for the gastric syndrome and hyperchlorhydria (burning sensation in the abdomen). As a laxative, it helps flush out toxins or harmful substances that cause discomfort or illness, so the healing process can begin. It helps to cools the burning sensation and reduces the discomfort often felt during diarrhea.

Improves Appetite

Consuming Gooseberry powder with butter and honey before a meal improves appetite. It also helps balance nitrogen levels, thereby increasing weight in a healthy way.

Prevents Constipation

Because of its high fiber content, Amla is great for the digestive system. A happy side-effect of this is its effectiveness against constipation.

Prevents Jaundice

Because of its antibacterial nature, Amla prevents infections like jaundice. Consuming Amla on a daily basis in the liquid form is the most efficient way to fight off these infections.

Gastric Ulcer Prevention and Treatment

Amla health benefits also include preventing and even treating ulcers. An extract of Emblica Officinalis (Indian gooseberry) was shown to inhibit the growth of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, responsible for painful gastric ulcers. And it also help to reduce gastric in our body.