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12 Foods That Can Help Prevent Lung Diseases

The lungs perform several vital functions, such as oxygenating the blood to maintain the functioning of other organs in the body. But the lungs might be susceptible to disease or infection due to genetic and environmental factors. When at risk of lung diseases like cancer, doctors prescribe treatments and certain lifestyle changes, such as making better food choices to improve lung health and prevent diseases. So, here are the best foods for improving lung health:

Beetroot
Adding beetroot to meals is one of the best ways to improve lung health. The colored roots and greens of the beet plant contain compounds such as nitrates, which can help relax the blood vessels, improve oxygen uptake, and reduce blood pressure. Further, the nutrients in beetroots may also help improve lung function in those with health conditions like COPD and pulmonary hypertension—a type of high blood pressure.

Apples
The lungs are susceptible to oxidative stress, which may result in inflammation of the airways. Apples are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and the flavonoid quercetin, which could reduce such stress and improve lung function. Eating apples has also been associated with a lower risk of asthma. Five or more apples per week can also help reduce the risk of developing COPD. 

Dark chocolate
A bar of dark chocolate can improve lung health as it contains cocoa, which is rich in flavonoids that act as antioxidants. Chocolate also contains theobromine, a compound known to relax the airways in the lungs. Cocoa or cacao products like dark chocolate can also help reduce the risk of allergic respiratory symptoms and protect the body against lung cancer.

Pumpkin
The colored flesh of the pumpkin is rich in compounds called carotenoids, like beta carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, so a healthy dose of carotenoids can improve lung function. Further, research suggests that higher levels of carotenoids in the blood may contribute to better lung health.

Turmeric
The spice has been used for centuries to tackle various health complications. Turmeric contains potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, mainly in its compound called curcumin, which can improve the quality of the lungs. The compound is also believed to reduce inflammation in the airways and protect the lungs from damage caused by pollution and other environmental damage. One could add turmeric to a range of recipes to make the most of its health benefits.

Tomatoes
Those who eat tomatoes regularly may experience a slower lung function decline, especially when dealing with conditions such as asthma. Introducing the vegetable or its by-products to daily meals could also help nourish the body with lycopene, an antioxidant associated with better lung function. Products like tomato puree may also help reduce inflammation in the airways and help manage lung function in those with COPD.

Blueberries
Blueberries are not just delicious but also healthy. The fruit is rich in nutrients essential for improving overall health, including protecting the lungs. The berry is a rich source of anthocyanins, such as malvidin, peonidin, cyanidin, petunidin, and delphinidin, which can protect the lung tissue from oxidative damage. One could also add other berries to their meals, such as blackberries and strawberries, which also help improve lung health. One could have them as snacks or blend them with other healthy ingredients to make a delicious smoothie.

Green tea
Green tea is a herbal remedy that can do wonders for the organs, including the lungs. Tea is rich in epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a compound called catechin that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The compound has also shown improvements in those who are affected by pulmonary fibrosis—scarring of the lung tissue that may damage the organ. One should have a cup or two of green every day to make the most of EGCG content.

Edamame
Healthy beans such as edamame can help nourish the body with compounds called isoflavones. Those who add edamame to daily meals have seen improvements in symptoms of lung diseases, such as COPD. One may have a lower risk of symptoms such as breathing difficulties when they choose foods rich in isoflavones.

Olive oil
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which may help prevent and reduce the effects of asthma. One could use olive oil to cook meals or add a drizzle to salads to enjoy its health benefits. 

Some may also suffer from conditions like non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), where cancerous cells develop in the tissues of the lungs, triggering symptoms like persistent cough and shortness of breath. While a cure for NSCLC is yet to be determined, healthcare experts may recommend a combination of treatments to manage the symptoms. One could also add a dash of olive oil to meals to relieve symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer. The oil contains hydroxytyrosol—an antioxidant that may reduce cell proliferation and eliminate cancerous cells.

Yogurt
Yogurt is rich in potassium, phosphorus, selenium, and calcium, which may help improve lung function and protect the organ from COPD. Other dairy products one could add to their meal regimen include milk and cheese. Further, such products could nourish the body with vitamin D, which has anti-inflammatory properties that could lower the risk of asthma attacks. However, one should consult an expert before adding yogurt to their meal plans, especially if they are sensitive to the food.

Coffee
Apart from its energy-boosting benefits, a cup of coffee may also help protect the lungs. The drink is rich in caffeine and antioxidants, which may improve lung function. Further, a moderate intake of coffee could provide temporary relief to those dealing with asthma and other respiratory issues. Caffeine helps open up the airways, which can make it easier to breathe for a while.

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9 tips to better manage ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by the development of sores or ulcers on the colon’s innermost lining. Its symptoms include bloody stools, diarrhea, rectal pain, cramping, fatigue, urgent bowel movements, and abdominal pain. These discomforts can unexpectedly come and go. In other words, they can reoccur after a period of remission. While you might feel helpless because of these fluctuations, you can control your symptoms with lifestyle and nutritional changes.

Avoid dairy products
More research and evidence are required to prove that specific meals can cause ulcerative colitis. However, experts recommend staying away from certain foods and beverages that may aggravate the symptoms. One of the most common things to avoid is dairy products. This would mean limiting or avoiding yogurt, milk, ice cream, cheese, and other products made of milk. Steering clear of dairy products can prevent abdominal pain and gas, which often result from this disorder.

Do away with fiber
Doctors usually advise people to add high-fiber foods to their meals, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, because of their nutritional value. But if you have ulcerative colitis, fiber can worsen the symptoms, especially if consumed in excess. So, stay away from seeds, corn, nuts, and popcorn, and see if you notice any difference. While raw fruits and vegetables may also cause trouble, do not completely ignore them. These foods might be safe if baked, steamed, grilled, or roasted. Though fiber helps regulate bowel movements, too much fiber can cause digestion issues and worsen flare-ups. When you experience a flare-up, stick to foods with no more than two grams of fiber per serving. You can also choose low-fiber foods, such as eggs, tofu, refined carbohydrates, juice without pulp, butter, fish, and cooked meat.

Be smart when choosing beverages
Like foods, certain beverages can also aggravate the signs of this disease by stimulating your intestines. This holds true for coffee, iced tea, soda, and certain other drinks. Carbonated drinks, in particular, are incredibly harmful as they can cause gastric issues. Drink plenty of liquids every day. And if confused, remember that water is always the best beverage on any given day.

Eat small meals
Besides adding the right foods to your plate, exercising portion control is essential. Most of your problems will resolve if you eat small meals. Instead of two or three big meals daily, opt for smaller meals every two hours and feel the difference. You can even eat five or six small meals during the day. Just ensure each meal is balanced, healthy, and small. And do not mindlessly snack on anything; when eating smaller meals, follow healthy guidelines and reach for nutrient-packed high-energy items.

Manage stress
Stress is not a direct cause of ulcerative colitis, but stressing about things can worsen its symptoms. It can also trigger flare-ups by releasing stress hormones in the body. Exercising can help reduce everyday anxiety and keep your bowel system functioning correctly. You can try simple ways to relieve stress, including yoga, deep breathing, meditation, journaling, and mindfulness meditation. If nothing seems to work, consult a doctor for advice on lifestyle changes. The doctor might suggest seeking counsel from a mental health professional. Besides managing stress, try to get plenty of sleep, eat balanced meals, and stay hydrated throughout the day.

Exercise
Regular exercise can help ease stress, boost mood, and regulate anxiety. It can also suppress inflammation and make you feel better. Indulge in exercises that work the best for you. Getting involved in activities like walking, yoga, biking, swimming, and sports is also a good idea. If confused, work out an exercise plan with your doctor that works in your favor.

Speak with a doctor
You can experience a relapse if you do not seek treatment on time. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help improve the condition, especially if the symptoms are mild or moderate. You can choose from several treatment options, including surgery, fecal microbiota transplantation, and anti-inflammatory treatments. In aggressive cases, hospitalization should be considered right away.

Keep a journal
You can manage ulcerative colitis better if you stay active and aware. So, track your symptoms and the things that trigger the condition. Log what you eat and drink, how you feel, and what is happening in your life. You can also keep a record of ongoing treatments and procedures. All these things can help you discover a link between what might act as a trigger and what helps you control your flare-ups. Understand that no matter how good the treatment is, you cannot achieve a fully active body until you act smartly and with awareness.

Seek support
You may feel embarrassed to talk about your condition, but let your family know what you are going through. Or, try to find a support group and talk to them about your problem. You can even seek professional help if you have trouble managing your body, bowel system, and feelings. This can help you lower anxiety and deal with the condition more optimistically in the long run.

Ulcerative colitis can cause periods of remission in some people, where symptoms disappear entirely. The signs might go away for months, weeks, days, and even years. But remission is not permanent. Most people have sudden, occasional flare-ups, which can trigger symptoms again. The duration and length of these flare-ups can vary from person to person, as can their severity. If you want to learn to handle ulcerative colitis, you must understand how to manage the return of symptoms and recognize the factors that trigger such flare-ups. By making changes in your meal plans and lifestyle, you can mitigate the condition to a considerable extent. The key takeaway is avoiding anything that might trigger your flare-ups.

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8 common triggers of itchy skin to be aware of

Are you constantly driven to scratch your skin due to an annoying itch? Do you feel helpless against the urge no matter how much lotion or cream you apply? Itchy skin can be incredibly irritating, but fortunately, it’s also a widespread problem, often associated with skin diseases. In this blog post, we look at some of the most common triggers that cause itchy skin and the steps to minimize them to alleviate the symptoms.

Eight common triggers of itchy skin


Excessive sun exposure
Excessive sun exposure can cause the skin to become itchy and inflamed due to the higher amounts of UV radiation. Those with susceptible skin may find that small doses of sunshine are uncomfortable and lead to breakouts, itching, and a prickly sensation. Not only is this bothersome, but it can also be potentially dangerous since people may be more likely to scratch or rub at the affected area and further damage their skin.
Many studies have found cancer patients complaining of itchy skin after radiation therapy using UVR. Hence, the studies conclude that UV rays from sunlight cause itchy skin. Therefore, it is advised to use antihistamines, sunscreens, and emollient creams.
To reduce itchy skin from sun exposure, one should use sunscreen with high SPF protection and limit their time outside when possible. Additionally, topical ointments or wipes may temporarily relieve sun-exposed skin irritations or diseases.

Age
Itchy skin and certain skin diseases like eczema can be annoying and uncomfortable, but it is even more common with age. As you age, your skin undergoes multiple changes, like becoming dry or being impacted by skin diseases like eczema or psoriasis.
As we grow older, our bodies produce fewer lipids to retain moisture in our skin, leading to lower hydration levels and causing barrier disruption. In addition, it triggers inflammatory responses like itching or flaking and intense sensitivity.
By ensuring adequate hydration, the right products can help protect your skin and keep it minimally reactive to external irritants.

Dry skin
Lack of moisture is one of the reasons for dry skin, which aggravates skin diseases and conditions like eczema. The common causes of dry skin include frequent hot-water baths, dry and hot climates, harsh chemical-heavy soaps, and exposure to intense sunlight. Chronic itch (that lasts longer than six weeks) due to dryness may indicate skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
To combat dry skin and itchiness, moisturize while reducing shower time, avoid extreme temperatures (hot or cold), limit using alkaline soaps, and wear loose clothing.

Chemical agents
Itchiness (a common symptom of skin diseases) is often caused by irritating particles in the air, such as chemicals, dust, or pollen. Chemical agents are notorious for inflaming the skin and triggering an unpleasant itch. Some of the common agents include:

  • Nickel (commonly found in stainless steel and other jewels)
  • Artificial fragrances in deodorants, body sprays, and lotions
  • Household products, including floor cleaners and detergents
  • Beauty products such as hair dye, cosmetics, sunscreens, and moisturizers
  • The latex used in gloves, condoms, balloons, and baby bottles

Renal diseases
Renal diseases (or kidney diseases), like uremia, can be a troubling and debilitating group of ailments. One challenging symptom of this burdensome condition is itchy skin, ranging from mild to severe.
Uremia is a widespread illness caused by highly damaged kidneys that cannot filter poisons from the body. The back, limbs, and belly are the most typically affected areas. When someone is suffering from renal dysfunction, their ability to regulate nitrogen-rich substances and other minerals is interrupted, leading to dryness in the outer layers of the skin.
Seeking medical advice and attempting topical solutions are two popular choices for patients struggling with itchy skin due to renal diseases.

Hormones
Hormonal fluctuations are more predominant in women than men. Itchy skin can be an incredibly frustrating and uncomfortable experience that often occurs during hormonal changes like puberty and pregnancy. Our bodies are complex systems of hormones, so these imbalances can lead to inflammation, which manifests as itchy skin.
While certain moisturizers and lifestyle changes can help with the itchiness, addressing the root cause of your hormone imbalance is critical to genuinely finding relief from this symptom. Therefore, you must talk to a dermatologist if the symptoms persist.

Daily lifestyle
Factors such as food choices, stress, exercise, environmental allergens, and emotional states can play a role in causing itchy skin. Some lifestyle factors that can trigger itchy skin conditions are as follows.

  • Inadequate consumption of dietary fibers leads to the poor gut microbiota, which fails to regulate skin inflammation.
  • Frequent consumption of junk or processed foods promote inflammatory reactions.
  • Inadequate sleep or erratic sleeping habits decrease the melatonin production required for healthy skin.
  • High consumption of chocolates, crisps, and nuts causes itchy skin as they contain high levels of nickel.

Changing your meal plans or avoiding certain foods may help relieve the discomfort. Unfortunately, some stress-related itching cannot be avoided, so focusing on relaxation techniques and reducing stress levels is essential. However, exercise should be done in moderation to ensure that the body’s temperature doesn’t become too hot, which could cause excessive sweating and further irritation.

Systemic conditions
Several conditions in your internal organs may cause changes in body blood content, reflected in dry skin. Systemic diseases that cause itchy skin (and, possibly, a skin disease) include:

  • Chronic renal failure
  • Hepatitis
  • Cholestasis of pregnancy
  • Extrahepatic biliary obstruction
  • Iron deficiency
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Blood cancer

Wrapping up
Various factors can cause itchy skin, including contact dermatitis, dry skin, allergies, or skin diseases. Thankfully, there are many ways to treat itchy skin and prevent it from happening in the first place. Look for signs of early onset of a severe medical condition like diabetes or cancer, and check with a dermatologist if you’re experiencing recurring symptoms. With knowledge comes power, so keep these tips in mind when dealing with itchy skin or any skin disease!

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6 Ways to Manage and Prevent Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, painful, and inflammatory disease that affects the skin and nails, leading to disfigurement and disability. It can happen to anyone, but people aged 50 and above are at higher risk than others. Genes and a weak immune system are considered to be the significant causes of psoriasis. Other triggers include sunburn, infections, trauma, underlying diseases, treatment side effects, and stress. This article will discuss ways to manage psoriasis effectively.

Psoriasis and its impact on the body
Psoriasis is caused by a dysfunction in the immune system resulting in inflammation. The inflammation causes lesions, bumps, raised plaques, and scales on the skin. When our immune system works well, our skin cells grow and shed once in fifteen days. When affected by psoriasis, the skin cells pile up instead of shedding, and the accumulated plaque build-up can burn, sting, or cause an itch.
Psoriasis may affect both the internal and external organs. Externally it usually affects the elbows, knees, and scalp. Internally it can affect any tissues and our organs. In some, it may affect the joints causing psoriatic arthritis. People with psoriasis are also at risk for cardiovascular diseases, hyperpigmentation, Chron’s disease, psychological disorders, and uveitis. Since there is no cure, treatment aims to control the symptoms and prevent remission.

Six ways to medically manage psoriasis

Physical examination
Once you consult a doctor, they will start with a thorough physical examination to understand the plaque’s appearance, location, and severity. They will also talk to you about recent infections, family history, and any other underlying health conditions that may be causing it. For example, if you are consulting your primary physician, they may refer you to a dermatologist at this stage.

Topical emollients and creams
Doctors may prescribe emollients and creams that can reduce inflammation, reduce the production of skin cells, and improve the symptoms of itch and pain.

Prescription treatments
Along with creams, doctors may also prescribe a combination of oral systemic treatments that target the molecules inside our immune cells and correct the overactive immune response. Doctors also prescribe Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDS) for those with severe symptoms.

Injections
Doctors may prescribe creams and oral treatments if the symptoms are very severe or if other treatment methods are ineffective in controlling the symptoms.

Phototherapy
Phototherapy has been used for more than a century to treat psoriasis. Doctors expose the affected area to Ultraviolet rays to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell production. You may require multiple sessions of phototherapy to see visible changes.

Six steps to prevent psoriasis flare-ups
Having one or two parents with psoriasis and using tobacco are two major risk factors for psoriasis. Following a good skincare routine and regular screening can help you prevent frequent psoriasis flare-ups.

One can follow these six steps to prevent psoriasis flare-ups:

Stay hydrated
Psoriasis symptoms can become severe if you have dry skin. Drink about 6-8 glasses of water and fluids to prevent dehydration. Use thick creams that can keep the skin moisturized for some time.

Follow a healthy skincare routine
Good skincare is the foundation of preventing or arresting psoriasis flare-ups. Use organic and hypoallergenic skin care products. While a few minutes in the sun can benefit you, do not spend long hours outside. If you must be outdoors, ensure your arms and legs are covered. Always carry a hat, umbrella, scarf, and sunscreen in your purse.

Avoid the following in your meals
Food is one of the primary triggers for a psoriasis flare-up. Maintaining a food journal can help you identify what triggers it for you. Avoid the following:

  • Dairy products
  • Eggplant
  • Gluten
  • Highly processed food with chemical additives and flavor enhancers
  • Pork
  • Red meat
  • Rich, sugary desserts
  • Shellfish
  • Snacks and bread made with refined flour
  • Tomatoes
  • White potatoes

Avoid exposure to psoriasis triggers
Besides food, many other natural, chemical, and environmental triggers can cause a flare-up. Following are some of the common psoriasis triggers:

  • Bruises
  • Specific prescription treatments used for treating hypertension, malaria, and hepatitis C
  • Dry weather
  • Humid weather
  • Insect and bug bite
  • Low estrogen
  • Skin injury
  • Stress
  • Too much exposure to the sun
  • Upper respiratory infections

Learn to manage stress
Stress is one of the significant triggers of psoriasis. A flare-up and the consequent rashes and itch can add to the stress. Light exercise, yoga, Tai Chi, and meditation can help you calm yourself. You can also spend time on your hobbies and with family and friends. You can also ask your doctor to refer a psychotherapist if you cannot manage stress yourself.

Avoid self-prescription
Certain oral prescription treatments have been proven as psoriasis triggers. Talk to a doctor before getting any treatment and talk to them about your symptoms so that they can avoid prescribing anything that could be a potential trigger. Do not take any oral treatment without a doctor’s advice.

Six home remedies for psoriasis
Since psoriasis is a chronic condition without a cure, you may have to take treatment for a long time. Self-care and home remedies can help the dependence on prescription treatments. (Do not discontinue any treatment without the doctor’s advice). Here are some of the home remedies for psoriasis that one can follow:

Cold compress
Apply a cold compress to the affected areas. It can help in reducing itches and prevent rashes from spreading.

Warm bath
Soak in a lukewarm bath for 15 minutes to loosen the scales. Add sea salt, oatmeal, and light coal tar bath gel to the warm water to help cool your skin and prevent the itch from spreading.

Essential oils
Essential oils have always been effective in treating skin conditions. Apply them directly or mix them with carrier oil as per instructions. Essential oils that are beneficial for psoriasis include:

  • Castor oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Geranium oil
  • Lavender oil
  • Tea tree oil

Aloe vera
Aloe vera gel is a highly recommended herb for dry skin conditions. Buy organic and certified pure aloe vera gel and apply it twice a day.

Bitter melon
Bitter melon is a bitter and edible fruit, and its enzymes inhibit psoriasis flare-ups. Talk to a doctor or nutritionist about the proper dosage for you. You should avoid it if you have low blood sugar.

Use a humidifier
A humidifier keeps the air moist at night and can keep the skin moist while you sleep. A 24-hour moisturizing care can help prevent a flare-up.

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6 easy tips to manage eczema flare-ups

Eczema is a common skin condition in the country. You may find the symptoms challenging to manage and alleviate without proper knowledge. The common symptoms include thick, scaly patches of raised bumps in the affected area. Understanding eczema triggers may help you handle it better. Therefore, consulting a dermatologist regarding your queries may prove beneficial. So, let’s read further about what exactly eczema is and how it can be managed by resorting to natural home remedies.

What is Eczema?
Eczema is a skin condition causing red, itchy, and long-lasting skin rash. Red patches can appear anywhere on the body during an eczema flare-up, including the feet, hands, ankles, thighs, cheeks, forehead, and neck. As anyone with a skin disease like eczema will attest, the condition is irritating, painful, and itchy. However, if you follow a healthy lifestyle, unpleasant symptoms may typically improve with time.

What eczema looks like on different skin tones
Eczema symptoms may appear different on different skin tones. For example, lighter skin tones may typically experience inflamed, red, and spotted dark pink patches, termed hyperpigmentation.
On the other hand, darker skin tones may experience violet, dark brown, or ashy grey patches. As the skin heals from eczema, it may become lighter, a condition known as hypopigmentation.

Which body parts does eczema affect?
Did you know that the eczema-affected areas of the body may be different at different ages?
Typical locations of eczema in infants and young children include:

  • The face
  • The exterior portion of the elbows
  • Knees

Symptoms in older children and adults are visible in the following locations:

  • Fingers and toes
  • Arms
  • The back of the knees
  • Elbow folds

Even though you notice eczema symptoms as an adult, you may have had it since you were an infant or young child. This is because most symptoms emerge during the initial years of childhood. However, it rarely happens that eczema symptoms appear for the first time in adults.

Six easy tips for easing eczema:


Improve your meal plans
Gut health affects your immune system and can deteriorate after consistently consuming excessive carbohydrates, sugar, and processed foods. However, a clear relationship exists between skin diseases like eczema and gut health.
You must note the times you encounter eczema flare-ups and examine the meals you consumed before the outbreak. This will help determine if specific foods trigger skin diseases and conditions like eczema.
Therefore, increase your consumption of anti-inflammatory foods to improve gut health and prevent eczema flare-ups. These foods can include turmeric, cinnamon, leafy green vegetables, seafood, beans, and lentils.

Make simple lifestyle adjustments
Taking a quick cool or warm bath rather than a hot one can significantly reduce eczema flare-ups. For example, a hot bath leads to dry, itchy skin and aggravates skin diseases like eczema.
While washing garments, opt for natural and fragrance-free detergents. These are gentle on the skin and have a soothing effect. This is true for not just clothes but also napkins, sheets, and other accessories like gloves and scarves. Opt for natural cotton clothes instead of synthetic fibers.
Lastly, check your shampoo and soap for harsh substances, like sulfates and parabens, that may worsen the burning, itching, and redness.

Avoid activities leading to heavy perspiration
Do your workouts cause you to itch? People with skin diseases like eczema often feel an itch when they sweat, whether exercising or sleeping under heavy sheets, due to overheating. The body uses sweat as a natural cooling mechanism, but when it evaporates, the remaining dryness and salty residue can make eczema worse. So, if you are experiencing an eczema flare-up, substitute heavy workouts with low-impact exercises or yoga.

Use natural ointments
Herbal ointments can naturally moisturize your skin and alleviate symptoms of skin diseases like eczema. Ointments like comfrey, plantain, and calendula salves benefit people with eczema and related skin diseases since they act as natural moisturizers.
These ointments can be applied once or twice daily on dry skin, during the onset of an outbreak, and to treat active outbreaks. Also, consider applying 2% licorice gel as an eczema remedy.
Lastly, sunflower seed oil has highly beneficial effects on itchy skin, reducing rashes, removing blisters, and enhancing the immune system and skin barrier function.

Control the urge to scratch
Scratching is an instinctual response to an itchy rash for most people. However, people with eczema and related skin conditions should avoid scratching. A technique known as habit reversal may help here. In this technique, you determine when you are most prone to indulge in a habit (in this case, scratching) and distract yourself at those times. If, when watching TV, you find yourself scratching, try engaging your hands with a stress ball, a fidget spinner, or a coloring book.
You may also apply a cold compress or ice, as it will soothe the skin and prevent the itch. Maintaining a moisturizing regimen after washing and before bed is essential to keep the skin hydrated and supple.

Use an apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an effective home cure for many skin diseases, including eczema. However, vinegar can injure soft tissue; therefore, it should be applied to the skin with caution. It is essential to know that vinegar is highly acidic, and so is the skin.
Skin with skin diseases and conditions like eczema is less acidic when compared to normal skin. This weakens the skin’s defenses. Hence, you can dilute apple cider vinegar to neutralize the skin’s acidity.

Wrapping up
Skin conditions like eczema may affect both kids and adults. However, these simple tips may help manage it effectively. Modifying your daily routine and introducing healthy lifestyle changes help alleviate eczema and related skin diseases. Ultimately, maintaining healthy and hydrated skin may easily control eczema symptoms.

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8 Medical Conditions That May Cause Severe Hair Loss

Hair loss or alopecia is a dreaded condition most commonly associated with middle-aged men, but unfortunately, it may even occur in young children. When you lose 50 to 100 hair each day, you would think it is not that big a deal. However, sometimes you may lose more, or perhaps new hair does not replace lost hair quickly. So let’s learn about hair loss and the medical conditions that trigger it.

Signs to look out for
Sometimes it can be tricky to differentiate regular hair loss from severe since even routine combing is bound to produce a handful of strands. For example, alopecia has the following symptoms – widening patches of scaling, receding hairline, loose hair, bald patches, and pain or itching on the scalp. Thinning of hair can take any form and sometimes may not appear on your head. Or, your drains may get clogged more, and perhaps your brush is full of hair if you suffer from alopecia.

Medical conditions that trigger severe hair loss
Most people do not talk about hair when they talk about their health. It is unfortunate since hair fall coincides with several health conditions. The following are some ailments known to trigger severe or noticeable hair loss.

Alopecia areata
The first condition that triggers severe alopecia is an autoimmune condition. Some researchers believe this illness which triggers unpredictable hair loss, runs in families. It is, unfortunately, quite common. However, the silver lining is that in most cases, only a tiny patch of hair, about the size of a quarter, falls out. If there is severe hair loss all over the scalp, it is called alopecia totalis. And if hair loss is all over the body, it is called alopecia universalis.

Androgenic alopecia
If you know a little Greek, you know that andros means man, but androgenic alopecia is hereditary hair loss that occurs in men and women. It may occur as early as puberty in some people but is typically noticed only in middle age, after age 65. In men, it is likely to occur progressively above the temples, and thinning starts at the crown, creating an M shape. Androgenic alopecia is the most common medical cause of hair loss, affecting about 50% of the world’s population.

Tinea capitis
Another medical condition that can cause severe hair loss is ringworm of the scalp or Tinea capitis. The regions affected on the scalp and hair shaft tend to become scaly and itchy. Unless treated early on, the size of the patch increases and tends to fill with pus. These patches are known as kerion and may cause relatively permanent scarring. There may be coloring on the scalp, and tender to the touch. However, the good news is it is treatable with simple antifungal cream.

Syphilis
A bacterial infection that is sexually transmitted and can cause severe and noticeable hair loss is syphilis. Though the first symptoms are bodily sores, secondary syphilis, occurring a few weeks after the infection, can be accompanied by hair loss. This shedding occurs in a “moth-eaten” pattern – that is, in small patches across the scalp. It does not leave scars on the head and can be reversed with treatment. Instead, the hair returns to normal within three months of antibiotic treatment.

Cancer
Cancer treatments are a boon and can save many lives, but they have several side effects. There is, of course, nausea, dizziness, and hair loss. Typically, radiation therapy to the upper body or chemotherapy causes hair loss on parts or the entire scalp within a few weeks after the treatments start. Wearing cooling caps during the sessions can prevent hair loss. But also, it is essential to remember that hair regrowth tends to begin within a few months of completing the chemotherapy or radiation. Dermatologists typically work with your oncologists to prescribe to speed up hair growth.

Telogen effluvium
Telogen effluvium refers to sudden hair loss that results from emotional or physical shock or a traumatic event. Extreme stress or serious illness is a common cause of severe hair loss. It may result from hormonal changes with pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and PCOS. Additionally, malnutrition, endocrine disorders, acute infections, surgery, and particularly anesthesia can result in severe hair loss. Drugs like anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, oral retinoids, and beta-blockers are peculiar reasons for losing hair. The good news is that hair tends to grow back when the underlying problem is treated.

Iron Deficiency Anemia
A lack of sufficient iron in the body reduces the number of healthy red blood cells. It means that oxygen transport in the body is impaired, and most organs suffer. Iron is absorbed from non-essential organs like the hair follicles when it is less in the body. And it leads to dry and brittle hair that breaks easily. Thus, this medical condition can seriously impair your health and cause severe hair loss. So, for example, if your thinning hair co-occurs with tiredness and heart palpitations, you might want to ask your doctor for iron tablets.

Thyroid conditions
The thyroid gland is responsible for metabolism, but when it is overactive or underactive, it can cause hair loss. This type of hair loss can be accompanied by changes in hair texture and even thinning of body hair. Often, thyroid problems result from autoimmune reactions and may accompany alopecia areata. Some causes of thyroid abnormalities include Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s disease. You can rectify this health imbalance, but most thyroid treatments take a few months to show positive changes.

Conclusion
Severe hair loss can be gradual or abrupt and temporary or permanent, depending on the cause. Whatever the reason, do not pull your hair out worrying, but give yourself and your scalp some time. Be kind to hair that is new in texture or slow to grow because it could take quite a while to return to normal.