8 warning signs of Parkinson’s disease

Good sleep is essential to keep a person energized and healthy. In contrast, poor sleep habits could lead to many health concerns in the long run. Many factors are responsible for poor sleep quality, sometimes, your mattress included. Purchasing the correct mattress that lets you sleep peacefully is challenging since multiple options are available. To help you with your decision, here are some factors and tips to consider while choosing a mattress.

Understanding different mattress types
Knowing the various types of mattresses in the market can help you select and find the right option according to your preferences. Listed below are some of the different types of beds.

• Innerspring-  This type of mattress comprises steel springs, making them firmer. They also offer a more bouncy feeling. Stomach and back sleepers may benefit from these mattresses as they offer sturdy support. 
• Memory foam-  These types provide the best pressure relief. These mattresses are great options for side sleepers or people suffering from back pain.
• Latex-  These are similar to memory foam ones but come under the bouncier options. If you are looking for an organic option, these are the best. There are two kinds of Latex mattresses – Dunlop and Talalay.
• Hybrid-  These mattresses contain an amalgamation of latex, coils, or memory foam. They provide more support and softness.
• Adjustable-   Such mattresses have air chambers that allow you to control their firmness level. These are usually more expensive than the other alternatives. 

Firmness
When choosing a bed, the firmness level is a critical factor to consider. It will also depend on your sleep position and body type. There are also various options regarding firmness level – soft, medium-firm, or firm. The various sleep positions are side sleepers, combination sleepers, stomach sleepers, and back sleepers. Meanwhile, the various body types range from heavier bodyweights to lightweight sleepers. The best options for side sleepers are beds with a firmness level of soft or medium. Meanwhile, it is an excellent choice for stomach sleepers to choose firmer beds. It has also been found that too soft or older beds may not properly support the spine. Hence, consider changing your product if you feel uncomfortable. 

Size
Before singling out a mattress, ensure it fits your room well. Mattresses are available in different sizes, including Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King. Because of the ample sleeping space, queen-sized mattresses are the most popular choice among buyers.

Comfort
The most critical factor to consider while choosing the right mattress is comfort. You can buy the most expensive product in the market, but if it is uncomfortable, it will be futile. When considering comfort, there are a few things to remember- mattress types, firmness, body types, and various sleep positions.

Advice from a health expert
If you suffer from conditions like back pain, neck pain, or other bodily discomforts, ask your healthcare provider about the mattress you should use. Those with neck and lower back pain should try to sleep in a neutral position.

Read online reviews
Reading reviews from buyers and customers has also become necessary when choosing a mattress. Reading unbiased and genuine reviews from the people who have purchased the product is always helpful as they would give you a fair and practical idea about your choice. Reviews also help narrow your options to the few best products in the market. You can also ask for recommendations from your friends, relatives, and loved ones. You can also seek suggestions and recommendations on social media. 

Popularity of brand
Despite checking customer reviews and ratings and asking for recommendations, you should also check the brand’s reputation and credibility. Look for whether the company makes unrealistic claims about the health benefits of the mattresses and whether it has recalled any product. You could browse for the ratings from the websites of experts. Check if all the relevant information and details concerning the materials used, health benefits, and where the mattress has been manufactured have been provided. You might find this information in the FAQ section on the company’s website.

Warranty
It might be helpful to check for warranties. Most mattress brands offer a warranty. Usually, warranties only provide coverage for some things, but generally, a ten-year warranty is standard. Therefore, it is required to read all the terms and conditions of the warranty and what is covered before buying the bed. However, leaving the mattress on the floor and setting it on the wrong type of frame may void the warranty. Some brands also offer a trial period to determine if the bed suits you. This period could range between a week to 30 days.

Free shipping
There are two options to purchase a mattress – in-store and online. Free shipping options should be checked before confirming the purchase. Usually, most brands and online retailers offer free shipping.

Free returns
Some brands and companies charge a restocking or processing fee. However, usually, most of the brands cover the return cost. It is where checking customer reviews might be helpful, as some people could have faced issues or had complaints when trying to make a return. 

Budget
With so many different types of beds available, the prices vary from affordable to expensive. Hence, set your budget and look around for deals and discounts to get the best mattress at the best price. 

Though some key factors to remember before purchasing a mattress are listed above, other aspects may arise depending on individual preferences. Researching and exploring well is always recommended before confirming a product, as the mattress you choose plays a significant role in helping you cope with back or neck pain issues. Also, good quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, so choose your mattress wisely.

Mostly observed in those above 65 years, lung cancer starts from the small air sacs (alveoli) or the airways (bronchi or bronchioles). Its symptoms are not apparent in the early stages and are only diagnosed in the advanced stages. Being aware of the signs can help in seeking early diagnosis and treatment. Here’s all an individual needs to know about silent signs of lung cancer, its diagnosis, and various treatment options.

Signs and symptoms of lung cancer
The signs of lung cancer are often similar to that of other health disorders related to the lungs. So it becomes difficult to get a proper diagnosis in the early stages. However, it is best to take preventive measures and consult a doctor whenever these symptoms appear and do not go away for a long time.

Persistent cough and hoarseness that does not go away
Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
Discomfort or pain in the chest
Frequent instances of wheezing
Coughing up blood
Chronic fatigue or extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve even after resting
Gradual changes in eating habits due to appetite loss, difficulty swallowing, abdomen pain, vomiting, or nausea
Sudden formation of lumps or swelling anywhere in the body
Chronic pain that is recent and caused due to unknown reason
Changes in texture and color of skin where lumps have formed. This can include patchiness, scaliness, the formation of bumps or sores, and even bleeding.
Unusual bruising or bleeding
Sudden changes in bowel movements with frequent constipation or diarrhea that don’t get better
Changes in bladder movement, including pain while passing urine or the presence of blood in the urine
Experiencing night sweats and fever
Frequent headaches
Issues with vision or hearing
Pain, numbness, bleeding, or sores in the mouth

The signs mentioned above are some of the common ones observed in the case of lung cancer. However, there can be many other symptoms as well. So it is important to be aware of any sudden or major changes in the body’s functioning or how one feels. If these changes worsen or last longer, one must consult a primary care doctor as soon as possible. This will ensure timely diagnosis and treatment without waiting for the symptoms to worsen.

How is lung cancer diagnosed?
The diagnosis of lung cancer involves multiple steps. It usually starts with a visit to the healthcare provider. The healthcare provider will ask one about the signs and symptoms one may be experiencing, one’s medical history, and one will then undergo a physical exam involving the heart and lungs. Since the symptoms of lung cancer are often similar to other health disorders, one will be recommended to get blood tests and a chest x-ray. If the doctor suspects an individual may have lung cancer, the following steps of diagnosis will involve undergoing further imaging tests and biopsy.

Here are further details on the tests used to diagnose lung cancer:
Blood tests
These tests do not detect cancer but help the doctor understand how an individual’s body’s vital parameters are functioning.

Imaging tests
These include chest X-rays and CT/PET scans. The results from these tests help the doctor see whether there have been any changes in one’s lungs.

Biopsy
This is a small procedure that is used to surgically remove samples of fluids and tissues from the lungs. These samples are studied under a microscope to confirm whether one has lung cancer. A biopsy can provide valuable information about the type and stage of lung cancer. Some common types of biopsy include needle biopsy, bronchoscopy, thoracoscopy or video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), thoracentesis, endobronchial ultrasound or endoscopic esophageal ultrasound, and mediastinoscopy or mediastinotomy.

Molecular tests
These tests are part of biopsy procedures. The samples extracted during the biopsy are tested to check for mutations or gene changes. These tests help to determine the most effective treatment options to target cancer cells and improve the patient’s health.

Common treatment options for lung cancer
The treatment options usually depend on the symptoms of lung cancer, the type of lung cancer, one’s overall health, and the stage of cancer. Once all the factors have been determined, an oncologist or medical team will devise a plan of action to remove the cancerous cells from one’s body and help one in the recovery process. Here are some of the common treatment options that are generally recommended.

Surgery
Lung cancer that has not spread or that is restricted to just one tumor can be treated with surgery alone. The process involves removing the tumor and surrounding tissues to avoid the recurrence of the cancer. Sometimes, a part of the lung or the entire lung is removed to prevent the cancer from returning.

Radiofrequency ablation
This is a minimally invasive procedure. It uses high-energy waves or electrical energy to destroy cancerous cells with high heat. This is used when tumors have formed close to the outer edges of the lungs. It helps to control tumor growth and prevent recurrence. In some cases, it is also used in palliative care to alleviate pain.

Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy is used on its own and, most times, along with surgery to remove cancer cells. This treatment method involves using high-energy beams or radiation waves to destroy cancer cells. If lung cancer has reached a very advanced stage, radiation is used as palliative care to relieve pain. This is done by shrinking the tumors.

Chemotherapy
This medical treatment option is commonly used in combination with other forms of treatment for maximum effectiveness. This treatment involves the administration of various chemicals and compounds into the body through an intravenous (IV) line. Chemotherapy destroys cancer cells and prevents their further multiplication, ultimately leading to a reduction in tumor size and the potential for remission.

The body rest and rejuvenates during the night sleep, but some individuals constantly battle the tides of drowsiness and sleep attacks during waking hours. Such individuals may be suffering from a neurological condition called narcolepsy. This sleep disorder presents unique challenges for those affected. The unexpected sleep attacks can disrupt one’s daily life, including productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. Here are the most common signs, causes, and strategies to support those navigating this condition.

What is narcolepsy?
Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that disrupts the normal sleep-wake cycle. People with narcolepsy often feel excessively sleepy during the day, struggling to stay awake and alert. These unexpected bouts of sleep can interfere with their normal routine and productivity, making it difficult to concentrate, perform tasks, and engage in social activities. Narcolepsy is a lifelong condition, typically emerging during adolescence or early adulthood.

Narcolepsy Signs

• Unexpected sleep episodes
  Narcolepsy can trigger sudden and uncontrollable sleep episodes, commonly known as sleep attacks. People with narcolepsy may find themselves falling asleep during conversations, while at work or school, while driving, or even during social gatherings. These sudden sleep attacks can be disruptive and potentially hazardous.
• Fragmented sleep
  Apart from this, individuals with narcolepsy may often have difficulty staying asleep at night due to fragmented sleep and insomnia. They may also experience automatic behaviors, where they briefly fall asleep during activities like eating or talking, continuing them without realizing it, or even driving, which can pose a serious risk to one’s life.
• Sleep paralysis
  Sleep paralysis is a condition that brings a temporary loss of muscle control. The condition occurs when one’s brain doesn’t transition smoothly between sleep stages, and one may find it impossible to move. This state may last a few seconds to some minutes and usually passes quickly.
• Muscle weakness (Cataplexy)
  A distinct symptom of narcolepsy is cataplexy, characterized by sudden muscle weakness or loss of muscle control. Strong emotions like laughter, surprise, or anger can trigger these episodes. During a cataplectic episode, individuals may experience temporary paralysis or a weakening of specific muscle groups, sometimes causing them to collapse or struggle to move. Cataplexy can range in severity and significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
• Hallucinations
  People may find these hallucinations confusing and alarming, further contributing to disrupted sleep patterns and overall distress. Hallucinations may be characterized by strong and convincing feelings about something that is not present in reality. These episodes may occur just before falling asleep or waking up. One who experiences sleep paralysis and hallucinations is more likely to be diagnosed with narcolepsy.

These symptoms, however, may not always mean that one is suffering from narcolepsy. Sometimes, they may be caused by other health concerns or lifestyle changes. It’s best to consult a healthcare professional who specializes in sleep disorders. A thorough assessment of one’s signs, healthcare examinations, and family history can help the doctor confirm the diagnosis and give proper and personalized treatment.

Possible causes of narcolepsy

• Brain chemistry
  Recent studies have shown an association of narcolepsy with an imbalance in certain neurotransmitters and chemicals in the brain. A brain chemical called hypocretin governs sleep, and certain brain neurons work together to stabilize one’s sleep-wake cycles. It is believed that a lack of hypocretin throws off the neurotransmitter balance that regulates alertness and sleep.
• Autoimmune disorders
  Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies healthy cells in the body as foreign or harmful and launches an attack against them. This misguided immune response leads to the destruction or dysfunction of healthy tissues and organs. In narcolepsy, one’s immune system is known to attack the hypocretin-containing brain cells.
• Family history
  One’s family history plays a significant role in one’s risk of developing narcolepsy. While it may also affect anyone, about 10 percent of people with the condition had a close relative or family member suffering from the condition.
• Brain injuries
  Any brain injury resulting from accidents or head trauma, or the presence of a tumor, can also significantly increase an individual’s risk of developing narcolepsy. The traumatic impact can disrupt the delicate balance of brain chemistry and interfere with the normal functioning of sleep-wake regulatory systems.

Apart from these, any chronic physiological stress or major hormonal changes like menopause, a sudden switch in one’s lifestyle and sleep patterns, as well as infections, can also trigger one’s condition.

Natural ways to manage narcolepsy

• Consider taking power naps
  Setting aside 20 minutes to an hour during the day to rest can help one to manage sleepiness and also help one’s body to rejuvenate and restore its energy levels. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help regulate sleep patterns and reduce excessive daytime sleepiness.
• Acupuncture
  While the precise mechanisms behind acupuncture’s effects are still being explored, this ancient practice offers a potential avenue for managing narcolepsy symptoms naturally.
• Lifestyle adjustments
  Making certain lifestyle modifications can have a positive impact on managing narcolepsy. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a sleep-friendly environment with a cool, dark, and quiet bedroom can enhance sleep quality. Regular physical activity like swimming, walking, dancing, cycling, and yoga can also contribute to better overall sleep, better balance and fitness, and increased wakefulness during the day. It can keep one’s muscles engaged and strengthen them, which usually tend to go limp in those with narcolepsy.
• Avoid caffeine
  Avoid caffeine after 2 PM. Caffeine is a stimulant that heightens one’s awareness, so one’s body may find it difficult to wind down if one has coffee or drinks with caffeine in the evening or at night. It can also negatively affect one’s quality of sleep.

Mind-body techniques, herbal remedies, aromatherapy, acupuncture, and lifestyle alterations offer promising avenues for symptom relief and overall well-being. It is essential to approach natural treatments with caution. Consultation with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist can provide guidance on appropriate exercise routines.

Detergents are available in multiple forms, such as pods, powder, and liquids, and choosing the best one can be tough. In addition to daily wear clothing and regular laundry items, you could have some garments that require specialized products for effective cleaning. Some members of your family might have sensitive skin and need mild chemical-free products. So here is a list of the best detergents that can make your laundry task hassle-free. 

Gain Laundry Detergent
Among the list of laundry detergents that are known for their fragrance is Gain Laundry Detergent. The liquid not only cleans your clothes but also gives them a delicate fragrance that can last for up to 6 weeks or until the garment is worn. This detergent can be used in all washing machines, including highly efficient ones. The detergent also has Oxi Boost, a combination of surfactants, enzymes, and pre-treaters that aid in eliminating stains and odors that could be two weeks old. Moreover, this product is available in multiple sizes to cater to the needs of every household.

Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent
Among the laundry detergents that excel in stain removal is Persil Proclean. This concentrated liquid offers deep cleaning and has stain-fighting enzymes. It has an active scent boost that eliminates the toughest of stains and odors so that your clothes have a fresh feel. This detergent has exceptional performance in all washing machines and provides effective cleaning at all water temperatures. The clean rinse formula and low suds ensure that white clothes stay white and bright clothes stay bright.

Kirkland Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for laundry detergents that are easy on your pocket, then choosing this Kirkland laundry detergent will be the best. The detergent offers a great combination of performance and cost-effectiveness. It has an ultra-clean formulation which enables it to travel deep in the fabrics to eliminate odor and stains. This detergent gives a fresh fragrance to your clothes which most users have found appealing. This liquid detergent is easy to dispense, which reduces the chance of wastage.

Tide Power Pods
Tide Power Pods should be your choice if you are looking for a laundry detergent to achieve heavy-duty cleaning for visible and invisible dirt. The pods are designed with 10 cleaning actives offering deep and hygienic cleaning across all loads. These pods have an innovative laundry capsule technology that enables it to enter the fibers of the clothes so that even hidden dirt is removed. This product works well in any washing machine and all water temperatures. This laundry detergent is available in different pack sizes to cater to distinct needs.

Woolite All Darks laundry detergent
Woolite All Dark is specially crafted to take care of dark-colored clothes among the many available laundry detergents. The liquid detergent has a special formula that is known to eliminate color-fading metal as well as chlorine ions from the water that is being used for washing. This detergent also smoothens the rough fibers, which can make clothes appear old and dull after regular washing. The neutral formula even aids in removing light everyday dirt from across all types of fabrics. This product can even protect delicate clothes as well as dark-colored clothes from the rough effects of washing.

Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for plant-based laundry detergents suitable for sensitive skin, then the Free and Clear laundry detergent by Seventh Generation will be great. This powder detergent has a strong quadruple enzyme formula that takes care of tough stains devoid of dyes, fragrances, or artificial brighteners. The detergent also has plant-derived enzymes like Protease and Amylase, which aid in eliminating all kinds of stains from clothes and fabrics. This hypoallergenic detergent has been dermatologically tested and proved to be gentle for sensitive skin.

Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent
Individuals who opt for eco-friendly detergents can try out the Earth Breeze laundry detergent. The fragrance-free product comes designed in liquid-less sheets that provide powerful cleaning. This detergent is simple to use and store. It also has a paraben-free, vegan and cruelty-free, phthalate-free, phosphate-free, and bleach and dye-free formula, which makes it a good choice for the environmentally conscious. The eco sheets dissolve easily in all water temperatures, making them suitable for use across all washing machines.

Noodle & Boo Laundry Detergent
Noodle & Boo laundry detergent will be perfect if you are looking for a laundry detergent specially designed for babies. The liquid detergent has a plant-based formula that gently eliminates all kinds of stains and odors while preserving the softness of the garment. This detergent comes certified by pediatricians for being hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.

Molly Sud’s Laundry Detergent
This laundry detergent powder is a strong and safe option for everyday laundry. The product has 4 stain-fighting organic ingredients that are safe for the environment and your family. It is devoid of artificial fragrance, making it great for sensitive skin. This detergent powder also removes the buildup left on clothes washed in other detergents.

Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for a liquid detergent that offers a clean floral fragrance, then choosing Mrs. Meyer’s laundry detergent is a good idea. The detergent is available in fragrances such as lavender, lemon, basil, and more, giving a fresh and delightful smell to your clothes. This product has a plant-based cleaning formula combined with dirt and stain-fighting enzymes so that you get perfectly clean clothes every time. The cruelty-free detergent formula works great with high efficiency as well as standard washing machines.

These are just a few of the many options for laundry detergents that are available in the market. Most of these are available in varying pack sizes that will meet the requirements of most families. It is noticed that people spend billions of dollars every year on laundry detergents. Most people opt for a detergent that smells good, or is perfect for their needs, or the one that is on sale. However, to choose a detergent that is best suitable for you, ask your dermatologist for a recommendation if you have any skin issues.

The kidneys are among the essential organs in the body. They help eliminate toxins from the blood and transform the impurities into urine. Unfortunately, several diseases may affect the kidneys and prevent them from functioning correctly. As per estimates, around six million people in our country aged 18 or older suffer from kidney disease. It can affect one or both kidneys and can be severe enough to require dialysis or even transplantation if not managed.

What are the types of kidney diseases?
They are mainly divided into chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute kidney disease (AKD):

Chronic kidney disease
CKD is a long-term problem affecting the organ’s ability to filter waste from the blood. Here, the kidney is affected gradually, usually due to ailments like diabetes or high blood pressure. The main symptoms are tiredness, feeling sick more often, and weakness in one arm or leg when standing up (this may go away on standing up straight).

Acute kidney disease
AKD occurs suddenly and is more severe but not a long-term problem. It may result from damage to the organ due to an illness or treatment. The symptoms include chest pain, stomach pain, loss of appetite, and fever, among others.

What are the most common kidney diseases?
Some of the most common ones are kidney stones, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, and urinary tract infection (UTI). Let us take a closer look:

Kidney stones
These are hard deposits of calcium and other substances inside the organ. Kidney stones can be as tiny as a salt grain or as large as a lime. They may cause pain in the lower back, side, or abdomen and blood in the urine. The pain is caused by pressure on one or more of the ureters—the two tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. A stone moves through these tubes and causes a blockage when it becomes lodged at any point or gets bigger than 1 mm. This blockage causes urinating to become painful or difficult, a condition called urinary retention.

Glomerulonephritis
It is a disease of the glomeruli (nephron)—small blood vessels in the kidneys. The main symptom is proteinuria (blood in the urine). Glomerulonephritis can cause kidney failure if left untreated or if the patient has another condition that makes their kidneys more susceptible to damage. The causes of glomerulonephritis include granulomatous diseases (such as sarcoidosis and Wegener’s granulomatosis), long-lasting viral infections (such as hepatitis B or C), and autoimmune disorders (like lupus).

Polycystic kidney disease
It is a genetic disease that can cause the organ to be abnormally shaped and develop cysts. If a person has polycystic kidney disease, they may experience fatigue, thirstiness, and frequent urination (early morning or at night). The condition is usually genetic, which means it runs in families.

Urinary tract infection
A urinary tract infection is mainly caused by bacteria called Escherichia coli (E. coli). Sometimes, it is also caused by other infections like yeast or fungus that grow in the bladder or kidneys. UTIs usually affect women and cause pain and burning while urinating and frequent urination. However, they usually do not need powerful treatments because they lead to mild symptoms in most cases. Nevertheless, if one develops signs like blood in the urine, they must seek immediate attention from an expert.

What are the symptoms of kidney disease?
While the symptoms might differ from condition to condition, there are a few common symptoms one should never ignore. These include blood in the urine, fever (low grade or high), chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and pain in the abdomen, which patients may feel as a burning sensation or heaviness. Swelling in the feet is another common sign, especially if a person has diabetes or hypertension.

How to manage kidney diseases with treatment?
Dialysis is one of the most common treatments for severe cases. It is usually needed when the kidneys fail and cannot do their job. There are various types of dialysis. The options available include:

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)
Doctors use a catheter to transfer special cleansing dialysis fluid to the patient’s peritoneal cavity—the open spaces in the abdomen. The fluid cleans the blood impurities through the abdomen’s internal wall. Once its job is done, doctors drain the fluid. PD requires multiple daily sessions but can be done at home or in a dialysis center.

Hemodialysis
This treatment involves removing blood from one’s arm, filtering it through special machines, and returning filtered blood to the body via an artery. This process repeats until all waste materials have been removed from the system by filtration through these same filters over time.

What lifestyle changes are recommended?
Besides using the proper treatment, one must follow healthy habits. Here are a few tips:

Follow a healthy meal plan
Nutrition is crucial for managing several ailments, and kidney disease is no exception. Healthy foods help patients gain strength to fight the problem. Patients should avoid salt, foods high in potassium (such as bananas), and caffeine. At the same time, they are advised to opt for nutrient-rich foods like cauliflower, blueberries, garlic, red grapes, and olive oil. One must also drink plenty of water.

Exercise regularly
Kidney diseases can affect one’s muscles and bones, so exercise is essential. Patients can opt for aerobic exercises, resistance training, and flexibility and balance exercises. These can improve muscle strength and leg stability. Moreover, exercise can help fight stress, which often sets in when dealing with chronic ailments.

Manage blood sugar and cholesterol
Patients must aim to control their blood pressure and cholesterol levels by eating healthful foods containing less sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol.

Kidney disease is a common problem in our country. While it can be managed with proper treatment and lifestyle changes, it is essential to know the symptoms to diagnose the condition in time. The kidneys are vital in filtering waste and toxins from the blood. If ignored, the condition may lead to several complications and even death.