6 effective tips to relieve nasal congestion

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a disorder that results in dry, irritable, and inflammatory skin. Though it can affect anyone, young children are more vulnerable to this disorder. The symptoms include recurring (chronic) and sporadic flare-ups, though it is not contagious. Atopic dermatitis patients risk contracting asthma and seasonal and food allergies. Regular moisturizing and skin disease condition-related treatments help alleviate itching and prevent further outbreaks. Using medicated lotions or ointments during treatment is also helpful.

Symptoms
Depending on an individual’s age, the severity of the condition, and other circumstances, symptoms of atopic dermatitis may vary. Those who have the condition typically experience phases of worsening symptoms, followed by times of improvement or even complete disappearance. The following sections will cover some likely variances in symptoms in more detail.

General eczema symptoms

Eczema symptoms are usually not severe. The most common signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis include dry, itchy skin, skin flushing, or weeping sores. 

Individuals with severe eczema skin disease may need more intensive care to eliminate their problems. Infections of the skin can also result from persistent touching and scratching.

The appearance of the skin area afflicted by atopic dermatitis will vary depending on the frequency of itching and infection. Itching, redness, and irritation can all worsen by rubbing and scratching the skin.

What causes eczema skin disease?
The underlying etiology of eczema still has to be thoroughly comprehended. The cause, according to scientists, is an overactive immune system. When allergens from the outside come in contact with the skin, the immune system reacts, causing eczema to flare up. A collection of typical flare-up triggers is provided below. Additionally, researchers have shown that the bodies of some people with eczema do not produce enough of the protein filaggrin. This protein is essential for keeping skin healthy and nourished.

Certain environmental variables may also aggravate the signs of eczema. These are:

Irritants : These comprise fresh fruit juices or meat, soaps, cleansers, conditioners, and disinfectants.

Allergens : Pet dander, pollen, mold, dust mites—all of these can cause eczema. This condition is called allergic eczema.

Virus : Microbes include pathogens, some fungi, and bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus.

Temperature : Extreme heat, cold, humidity, and sweat from physical activity can aggravate eczema.

Foods : Wheat, soy, almonds, seeds, milk products, and eggs can aggravate eczema.

Stress : Although stress is not the leading cause of eczema, it can exacerbate the symptoms.

Hormones : A woman may experience worsening eczema symptoms when her hormonal changes fluctuate, such as during pregnancy or at particular points throughout her menstrual cycle.

How can one avoid getting eczema?
Keep the skin hydrated
To prevent eczema, the skin has to be hydrated even if a person is not experiencing irritation. But first, let’s look at the distinction between dryness and skin that is dehydrated (lacking in water). The substances we use to tackle dry skin issues differ from those we use to address dehydrated skin.

Remember that to distinguish between the two situations, dry skin lacks facial oil, whereas dehydrated skin exhibits desquamation or a tight, uncomfortable feeling. Consider adopting the following habits to avoid eczema skin disease and maintain the moisture of the skin:
Drink a lot of water
Apply a gentle cleanser
After a shower or bath, hydrate the skin with a moisturizing product

Determine and prevent potential triggers
Pollen, pet dander, mildew, and poor eating habits can cause or worsen an eczema flare-up. Recognizing the eczema triggers will help a person avoid them as much as possible. The pharmacist can also be of great help.

Take brief, warm showers
Taking a warm bath at the end of a chilly winter day can be incredibly rejuvenating, but it is not a good idea if one is making efforts to avoid or treat eczema. It is clear why this is the case. The lipid layer, or the upper surface of the epidermis that keeps the skin moisturized, can get destroyed by bathing in too-warm water. Experts advise using the following procedures in addition to lowering water temperature:
Restrict baths to 10 minutes each
Remove any irritants, sediments, or allergens from the skin
Choose hypoallergenic, odorless soap

Use a humidifier
Winter brings dry weather, and the dry season frequently causes eczema flare-ups. Low humidity dehydrates the skin, which can result in eczema. If the apartment that one lives in is too dry, consider installing a humidifier in the room and any other space where one’s family devotes a lot of time.

Above all, refrain from scratching
We are all aware of this. Eczema or atopic dermatitis builds up a burning desire to scratch. But pay heed—the impulse to itch must be resisted, even if it temporarily improves one’s mood. Scratching is counterproductive and exacerbates any problems one may already have, worsening the situation. In actuality, it will only serve to aggravate the itching. Itching and rashes are all caused by scratching eczema. A person scratches because one is irritated and momentarily feels better, but the rashes worsen. Scratching does the exact opposite of what it is expected to do.

Choose apparel made only of cotton
If a person frequently experiences eczema flare-ups, cotton is a comfortable material that allows the skin to relax and helps prevent itching. In general, and especially when jogging or participating in sports, always select light, flexible materials that do not rub against or scrape the skin.

Remain calm
Excessive heating reduces humidity, dehydrating the epidermis and triggering eczema flare-ups. Sweating from overheating can aggravate skin disease even more. As a result, one should refrain from setting the home’s thermostat too high throughout the winter. Instead, choose light bedding, especially cotton, and keep the bedroom chilly at night.

Conclusion
Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a long lasting condition that can be uncomfortable and range in intensity. Based on a person’s age, it may manifest itself in various ways. The signs could be more challenging for those with darker skin tones. Though there is no cure, eczema flare-ups can be treated and avoided with over-the-counter products, moisturizers, and lifestyle modifications.

Humans tend to rely on verbal modes when communicating with each other. On the other hand, dogs communicate primarily via body language and secondarily through vocalizations. While having a dog whisperer would take the guesswork out of the situation, understanding inter-species communication is not as straightforward. Therefore, when deciphering what is being communicated, you must observe the entire dog (tail carriage/motion, facial expressions, body position, etc.) and the situation or context.

Looking for non-verbal cues:
Since dogs cannot vocalize their feelings, they may use the following non-verbal cues for our benefit:

Tail
Tail wagging is the most obvious sign to observe. However, it may not always mean the dog is happy, friendly, or excited. Remember to look for other cues to understand their mood. Here are some general tail motions that can help decipher how your dog is feeling:

• A curled tail could be a relaxation, confidence, or dominance stance.
• A straight, stiff tail generally signals that the dog is focused on an activity or tracking something.
• A tucked or lowered tail is a sign of fear or submission.

Ears
Isn’t it adorable watching a dog’s ears perk up? Their ears are also an important part of communication! Perky ears are generally a sign of interest and focus, while floppy ears are a sign of submission. Ears pinned towards the back of the head could indicate that the dog is unhappy or uncomfortable.

Eyes
Just like humans, dogs also use their eyes to communicate. When receiving a belly rub or a pat, dogs close their eyes in pleasure or delight. Seeing the whites of a dog’s eyes indicates they are on high alert and want space. An unblinking dog may be taking an aggressive stance or just staring at you for attention. Remember to read the context before assuming what dogs are trying to communicate with you.

Mouth
You can tell the dog’s mood by looking at their mouths. Some dogs smile wide with their ears forward, relaxed eyes, and big open mouths with their tongues out when they are happy. When a dog bares their teeth, it may indicate they are unhappy, scared, or aggressive.

Dogs also use licking to convey emotions, including affection, submissiveness, excitement, and stress. Generally, licking their guardians or engaging in mutual grooming activities is a sign of affection and love. However, excessively licking themselves may be related to an underlying cause such as fleas, ticks, or allergies.

Understanding their language groups of communication

Here are the five most common groups of communication dogs may use:

Fear
Dogs react to fearful situations with their whole body. The intensity of these reactions may increase as the situation progresses. They may lick their lips or yawn even though they are not tired or hungry. Alternatively, they may keep their mouths tightly closed. Some dogs may also cower and tuck their tails between their legs. They may show signals similar to a panic attack in humans – they may shake, tremble, or avoid eye contact. In some dogs, fear may manifest as a lack of responsiveness; for instance, they may not eat food or treats or engage with people passing their kennel.

Experiencing fear or threat for a prolonged time may also compel some dogs to turn aggressive.

Arousal
Some dogs exhibit excitement and arousal as well. This may be because of age, confinement, lack of physical and mental outlets, or their personality. The most common behaviors of excited dogs are jumping, mounting, or mouthing. This response is often instigated when dogs see something they like – a person, a toy, or even another dog. For example, a dog with a soft, relaxed body and a wagging tail may jump up for attention when they see someone they like. They may also play-bow around something they like as a way of engaging.

You may also notice arousal behaviors around negative stimuli, such as an unwanted person, animal, or situation. Here, the excitement response is often coupled with the communication they commonly use for expressing fear, such as a burrowed tail or trembling.

Anxiety
Dogs show their anxiety by panting excessively, pacing, and lacking focus. They may also showcase similar traits as fearful dogs. Anxious dogs may also wag their tails slowly and move away from people. They may shed or drool heavily. Some anxious dogs may ‘shut down’ and stop showing any behaviors, while others may demonstrate arousal behaviors due to stress or anxiety. When living inside a kennel, an anxious dog may be constantly barking, pacing, circling the area, or jumping off the side walls.

Aggression
Aggressive behavior in dogs is generally triggered by a perceived threat, such as another dog, human, or situation. This is generally exhibited as a protective mechanism to convey that the dog will protect itself and its territory. Common aggressive body language in dogs includes stiffening or freezing of the body, wide eyes with a lot of white showing, tense mouth, curled lips, wrinkled nose, teeth showing, barking, growling, and air snapping.

Relaxation
Relaxed dogs are perhaps everyone’s favorites. Their mouths are relaxed and may slightly turn up at the corners to give the appearance of a smile. Their head and ears are neutral, and they have soft eyes. Their body is loose and stress-free, and their tail may wag back and forth or in a circular motion.

Pets are an important part of our lives. Whether we understand their non-verbal cues entirely or not, protecting them and keeping them safe is important. To do so, you can consider installing an in-ground fence (an underground or wired fence). With simple installation and no physical fence upkeep, these fences can help you establish a boundary for your pup and protect them from traffic, strangers, and other dangers outside your home!

Home remodeling projects, when done right, can offer high returns in terms of increased home value and improved functionality. Whether you want to sell the house or just improve the look and function of their living space, these projects are worth considering. Finding the right contractor for the remodeling project is crucial for making the right moves. Here are some of the top budget-friendly home remodeling projects that can offer high returns:

Kitchen remodeling
The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, and a well-executed remodeling project here can yield a high return on investment (ROI). You can upgrade countertops, cabinets, appliances, and flooring or even consider adding energy-efficient features, which can modernize the layout and maximize functionality. Opt for high-quality materials and fixtures to ensure durability and longevity.

Bathroom renovation
You can invest in upgrading fixtures, such as faucets, showers, and toilets, to more efficient and aesthetically pleasing options. Extra storage, better lighting fixtures, enhanced ventilation, as well as energy-saving additions like LED lighting can increase the appeal of the bathroom while reducing utility costs. You can also install water-saving features, such as low-flow toilets and showerheads, to reduce water consumption and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. Addressing any existing plumbing issues, such as leaks or outdated pipes, can also improve the overall functionality and value of the home.

Deck or patio addition
Outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular, especially in areas with favorable climate. Adding a deck or patio can provide a significant ROI while expanding your living space. So, consider choosing durable materials that require minimal maintenance and adding features like built-in seating, fire pits, or outdoor kitchen to enhance the appeal of the outdoor area.

Basement remodeling
Basements are often an untapped potential that can cater to a variety of needs. By converting the basement into a usable space, such as a home theater, game room, or guest suite, you can increase the home’s value and appeal. First, ensure proper insulation and adequate lighting for safety and comfort. There should also be egresses, such as windows or exterior doors, for safety and compliance with building codes. Incorporating storage solutions can maximize space utilization and help keep the area organized.

Energy-efficient upgrades
By harnessing natural abundant sources of energy like sunlight, you can make the house more eco-friendly and save money in the long run. So, consider installing energy-efficient windows, upgrading insulation, and replacing outdated appliances with energy-saving models. These upgrades not only lower the energy requirements of your home but can also contribute to a higher resale value.

Garage conversion
Consider converting the garage into a living space, such as a home office, gym, or additional bedroom. This can add more utility space to the house. Ensure proper insulation, heating, and cooling to create a comfortable environment. Consider installing windows or skylights to bring in natural light and make the space feel more inviting. Further, adequate plumbing may be necessary if you plan to add a bathroom to the converted garage. Before opting for this, you should consult professionals to ensure compliance and proper conversion techniques.

Curb appeal enhancements
How the house looks to outsiders plays a role in making the first impression during a sale. To add to the aesthetic appeal, you can invest in landscaping solutions like adding plants, flowers, and shrubs. Repainting or updating the front door can also create a focal point and add a fresh look to the entrance. It is best to tend to any repairs or replacements of damaged or worn-out siding, roofing, or windows first to improve the overall condition of the house before moving on to visual enhancements.

Smart home upgrades
Incorporate smart home technology into remodeling projects to enhance functionality and the look of interiors. The upgrades may include programmable thermostats, smart lighting systems, and security features that can be controlled remotely. Also, consider upgrading to voice-controlled devices or a home automation system for additional modernization.

Backyard or garden transformation
Install pathways or walkways to improve accessibility and create a sense of flow within the garden. You should also ensure proper irrigation and drainage systems to maintain the health and vitality of the plants and lawn. You can opt for native plants that require less water, low maintenance, and attract local wildlife. Incorporating drip irrigation or rainwater harvesting can help conserve water and reduce utility costs. Additionally, create a composting area to recycle organic waste and enrich the soil naturally. You can use environmentally friendly materials for the project, such as recycled pavers or reclaimed wood, for pathways, seating areas, or raised beds.

Tips for finding a contractor
Choosing the right general house contractors can help you realize your vision and avoid expensive mistakes when remodeling a home. Here are some tips to get you started:

Seek recommendations: Before looking up “general house contractors near me” on a search engine, you can seek recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have recently undertaken similar projects. This way, you learn about the contractor’s services and quality of work and if any issues arose in the process. This helps set realistic expectations and a level of trust and confidence. Additionally, ensure they have adequate liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage to protect you and the professionals during the project.

Check their portfolio: The next step to finding a trustworthy house contractor is to review their portfolio or gallery of past projects. This will help in assessing the quality of their workmanship and their ability to deliver on expectations. In case the contractor doesn’t have a consistent online presence, you can even request references from previous clients.

Ask questions: It is important to discuss project requirements and expectations in detail with general house contractors, along with understanding their project management approach, communication style, and how they handle potential challenges.

Get multiple quotes: Before hiring a contractor, seek estimates from multiple contractors. This will help you compare pricing, project timelines, and proposed materials. Be wary of significantly low bids, as they may indicate subpar quality or hidden costs.

A DIY auto repair project sounds like a lot of work, and while that’s true, it is also a fun activity for car enthusiasts. Besides, it is usually good to have some basic knowledge about the vehicle you own, and what better way to learn than work on DIY projects? However, there are some tips and tricks you must know when getting into some auto repair project, so read on further to learn these.

Find the right spot
A car project is no quick job; it needs time and patience. So, simply parking the car in your driveway and working on it will not cut it. Find the right spot for your car – a garage or the basement. If you don’t have the space, maybe a friend or kin can help you with the appropriate space. Weigh your options before committing to the job. While trying to answer these questions, also think of whether you have the time and resources to work on the car. This could take days, weeks, or months to repair. You do not need many specialized tools to do your DIY repair work, but just in case you believe otherwise, you can also speak to a nearby auto shop and ask to borrow some of the tools. They may ask for a deposit, but once you are done using them and return them in good condition, you can get your deposit back.

Put your research together
Now whether you are restoring your old car or working on a small problem with the new car, it is possible that someone has found a DIY solution to it. Thanks to the vast number of videos and tutorials online, you can easily find some answers on popular sites instead of going in completely clueless about the project. Also, there are some companies which offer repair manuals, so that may be a good place for you to start looking for information. If that is not enough, there are several mechanic forums available online which are likely to have advice on auto repair. Some may even ask for an access fee, but that’s nothing compared to the amount you will save by doing the repair job on your own. See what works well for you and go ahead with that option. Also social media today is also a great resource finder. Finding relevant groups on these social networking sites might help you a great deal.

Shop efficiently
One of the reasons why you chose to do a DIY project, apart from it being fun, is to save some cash. So shopping from the right place is absolutely crucial. Some things which may cost close to $500 at your local auto repair shop may be available for almost half the price online. When you are putting your research together, one of the things to put a database on also includes finding the right seller for the parts that you may need.

Once you’ve got your pre-action resource kit, that’s when you actually dive into the process.

Put labels and sticky notes
By this time, you have probably studied your car several times and already know where all the parts go, how they are positioned, and so on. But here’s the catch, this repair work will probably take weeks, and retaining all that information will be difficult. It is advised that you document your process with the help of videos or photos. This is crucial because when you do start to put things back together, you will need all the help you can get. These photos and videos with references and any commentary will help make sure everything is in order and no new issue crops up. You can even label the removed parts to know what is what. This may seem like a tedious task, but you’ll thank yourself later for this process.

Stay patient
A small mistake can potentially dismantle the whole project. There are many parts to making a car, and all these nuts and bolts need to be dismantled and put together carefully. Some excess pressure here and there can put them in a lock, which only a professional mechanic may be able to take out. Also, these small setbacks can easily set in fear in some people. That said, don’t let the machine overwhelm you. If you believe you can fix the problem and have done your due diligence, don’t give up on minor complications. Go back to your research, repair guide, videos, and even check with a trusted, experienced friend who can help you.

Diagnosing and repairing some issues
Here are some examples of how you may want to check for some issues:

Check for the engine light; you can buy the right tool, like an OBD-II scanner, which reads error codes, and can help you identify the underlying issue that is triggering the check engine light.
Pay specific attention to any unusual noises that you encounter. For example, if any part is rattling, grinding, or squealing, it needs immediate attention. These noises indicate a problem with the engine, the brakes, or even the suspension. Keep your eyes and ears open.
Common leaks to check would include an oil leak, brake fluid, or a coolant leak.
Another important hack to know is how to keep your headlight or taillight repaired. These are important for visibility and often can fuse out, so knowing how to fix them can be one of the first small wins for you. Same for other items like windshield replacement or fuse replacement.
Some crucial tools to keep on hand may include things like a socket set, torque wrench, multimeter, and a jack and jack stand.

Most of all, always be extra careful when working with tools, and if possible, have some company with you in case you are working on anything which may need two sets of hands; don’t be shy to ask for help!

The bones are arguably the most critical element in the human body. Bones provide structure and facilitate any movement the body makes. However, many people worldwide do not think twice about their bone health. Certain foods and lifestyle habits are detrimental to one’s bone health. Every time an individual eats such foods or carries out those habits, they reduce the strength and longevity of their bones. Here are a few such habits:

Drinking too much coffee
Drinking coffee is a favorite activity for many people.  Millions worldwide drink the beverage to keep themselves awake and going while they are working. Unfortunately, caffeine, the chief component of coffee, is not suitable for one’s bones.

Many studies have found that coffee drastically reduces bone density in postmenopausal women. About six milligrams of bone calcium are lost for every 100 milligrams of caffeine one consumes. Therefore, to avoid osteoporosis, a health condition in which the bones become incredibly weakened and porous with time, one must stop drinking caffeine-rich foods or consume them in moderation.

Failing to get enough sunlight
Vitamin D is a vital element when it comes to keeping the bones healthy. Sunlight is an abundant source of vitamin D. Therefore, people must go outdoors more often to expose themselves to early morning sunlight, arguably the richest source of vitamin D. This habit can keep their bones strong and healthy for many years.

Conversely, people who do not get sunlight or cannot step out of their house long enough to expose themselves to the sun are vulnerable to weakened bones and joints.

Sitting on the couch for too long
The body needs frequent movement to prevent stiffness and other flexibility-related issues. If an individual sits on a couch or a chair for too long, they are depriving their body of this all-important movement. Over time, their bones weaken and become less resilient to strain. Also, just as with bad posture, sitting or sleeping for too long can affect the shape of bones in the long run.

Many workplaces have employees sitting in one position for hours before a computer screen. In such workplaces, such individuals must be encouraged to take a quick walk or some rounds of exercise after every few productive hours. Doing so will keep their bones and the rest of their body healthy for a long time.

Consuming too many sugary snacks
Having a sweet tooth is not a problem; however, one needs to keep their sugar consumption in check to keep their blood and bones healthy. When people consume too many sugary snacks, such as donuts and pastries, they may skip other meals because sugary snacks are pretty heavy. This, in turn, means that such individuals are not eating as much nutrient-rich food as they should. Over time, this causes significant bone issues in individuals.

Not performing weight-bearing activities
A weight-bearing activity, as the name implies, is an exercise in which an individual uses their body weight to create the resistance that drives the workout. So, activities such as jogging, hiking, weight training, and walking are considered effective weight-bearing activities. These activities are crucial for boosting one’s bone intensity and mass. Missing out on these activities can come at a cost for individuals. After all, not doing these activities often keeps one’s bones from becoming sturdier and more resilient to knocks and blows.

Spending too much time indoors
Staying perpetually indoors, even if one moves around frequently, is not just detrimental to one’s bones because they are not getting sunlight exposure. Keeping oneself inside a house for long periods deprives them of pure, fresh oxygen and increases their chances of developing weaknesses and sicknesses. Not experiencing the sights and sounds of the external world can cause people to lose interest in any movement or exercise.

Eventually, this can result in poor health and immunity. Ultimately, not stepping out of one’s house is very likely to make one’s bones weaker and more susceptible to osteoporosis due to the sheer lack of sunlight and the other nutrients one can get by breathing fresh air outdoors.

Not working out regularly
Exercise is linked to increasing one’s strength in every way imaginable. Additionally, exercising regularly (if not daily, at least two to three times a week) builds a person’s stamina and strength. The exercise does not have to be overly complicated or taxing on the body. All one needs to do is walk a few rounds in a nearby park or do stretching exercises. Exercising speeds up the process of breathing in and out.

Additionally, workouts help increase the rate of blood circulation in the body. This causes oxygen and nutrients to travel to different vital organs and bones of the body on a much quicker basis. As a result, the bones get nourishment and proper testing regularly, maintaining strength.

Having a poor posture
Many people cannot sit with a straight back due to laziness or back pain. A person develops bad posture when sitting with a bent back in front of their TV or while playing video games for hours daily. This is arguably an even worse problem than insufficient movement throughout the day. While that problem makes the bones weaker, this one can cause bone deformation if kept up for a long time.

Eating food that has too much salt
Salt is a bad food when it comes to blood pressure or bone health. The more salt a person eats, the more calcium they lose. This element extracts calcium from one’s bones and teeth, leaving them brittle and porous. Therefore, while salt is unavoidable, consuming it in moderate proportions daily is still recommended.