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Thyroid cancer is the ninth most common cancer in the country. It can occur at any age and affects both men and women. While it is a relatively rare cancer, it is essential to be aware of its signs and symptoms so that it can be diagnosed and treated early. This article will cover the causes, signs, diagnosis, risk factors, treatment options, prevention, and support resources for those dealing with thyroid cancer.

Introduction to thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer is a kind of cancer that originates in the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the bottom of the neck. The thyroid is a unit of the endocrine system, which produces hormones that regulate several critical bodily functions. In thyroid cancer, abnormal cells in the thyroid rapidly divide and form a tumor.

There are other types of thyroid cancer, including papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. The most common type is papillary thyroid cancer, which makes up about 80 percent of all thyroid cancers. Follicular thyroid cancer is the other most common type, making up about 10 percent of cases.

Causes of thyroid cancer
There are several risk factors may increase a person’s chances of developing the disease. These include a family history of thyroid cancer, exposure to radiation, specific genetic syndromes, and a food regime high in iodine.

A family history of thyroid cancer increases a person’s risk for the disease. If a person has a parent, sibling, or close relative with thyroid cancer, their risk of developing the disease is higher.

Radiation exposure is also a risk factor for thyroid cancer. People who, in the past, have had radiation therapy to the neck or chest may be at an increased risk, as well as those who have lived in areas with high environmental radiation levels.

Specific genetic syndromes can also increase the risk of thyroid cancer. These include familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), an inherited condition that increases the risk of various cancers, multiple endocrine neoplasias (MEN) syndromes, and genetic disorders that can cause various endocrine tumors.

Finally, regularly eating foods high in iodine can also increase the risk of thyroid cancer. Iodine helps the thyroid produce hormones, and too much can lead to an overproduction of hormones, which can cause tumors to form.

Symptoms of thyroid cancer
The most prevalent symptom of thyroid cancer is a lump or nodule in the neck. These lumps are usually painless and can be felt through the skin. Other symptoms of thyroid cancer include difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, a persistent cough, and voice changes.

In some cases, there may be not be any symptoms at all. This is why knowing the risk factors and getting regular check-ups to screen for the disease is essential.

Diagnosis of thyroid cancer
If a person has symptoms that suggest they may have thyroid cancer, they will usually undergo a physical examination, imaging tests, and a biopsy.

During a physical examination, the doctor will feel for lumps or nodules in the neck. They may also order imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan to get a better look at the thyroid and surrounding tissues. The doctor will usually recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis if a lump or nodule is found. A tissue sample is taken from the thyroid during a biopsy and sent to a lab for testing. This is the only way to diagnose thyroid cancer definitively.

Risk factors for thyroid cancer
As mentioned above, there are several risk factors for thyroid cancer. These include a family history of thyroid cancer, exposure to radiation, specific genetic syndromes, and a food regime high in iodine.

Other risk factors include being female and having a weak immune system. Women have more chances to develop thyroid cancer than men, and those with a weakened immune systems are more likely to develop the disease.

Treatment options for thyroid cancer
The treatment of thyroid cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease. Surgery is recommended as the first line of treatment, followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Surgery is used to remove the cancerous cells from the thyroid gland. Depending on the type of cancer, the entire thyroid may need to be removed or just part of it. Radiation therapy kills any cancerous cells that may remain after surgery. It can also reduce the size of tumors and relieve symptoms.
Chemotherapy kills cancer cells that may have spread to other body parts. It is usually used in combination with other treatments.

Prevention and early detection of thyroid cancer
The best way to prevent thyroid cancer is to know about the risk factors and get regular check-ups to screen for the disease. Those with a genetic history of thyroid cancer should be vigilant and screened regularly.

In addition, limiting exposure to radiation and avoiding iodine-rich foods can help reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer.

If you experience thyroid cancer symptoms, it is crucial to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is critical for successful treatment.

Coping with thyroid cancer
Diagnosing and treating thyroid cancer can be a complex process. It is normal to feel overwhelmed and scared. It is very vital to remember that you are not alone, and many resources are available to help you cope.

Speaking to a trusted friend or family member can be a relieving way to express your feelings and get support. You can also join a support group or talk to a mental health professional.

Support resources for thyroid cancer
There are many support resources available for those diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) offers a variety of resources and support groups for those dealing with the disease.

The Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association (ThyCa) is another excellent resource. They offer information, support, and guidance to those with thyroid cancer.

Thyroid cancer is a relatively rare but severe type of cancer. It is very crucial to know about the signs and symptoms and get regular check-ups to screen for the disease. If you are diagnosed with the condition, it is advisable to check out potential support therapies to help deal with the psychological and emotional aspects of the disease.

Heart-related issues are some of the most concerning health concerns in the country. Of these, a key condition is atrial fibrillation or abnormal heart rhythm. The country sees over 454,000 hospitalizations with atrial fibrillation as the primary diagnosis, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, one can prevent and manage the condition by making lifestyle changes, including healthy eating habits. Here are some heart-healthy foods to help deal with atrial fibrillation:

Causes and symptoms
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is heart arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm. The condition usually causes an irregular or fast heartbeat and can be fatal if not treated immediately. Atrial fibrillation is caused by an imbalance between the electrical impulses that control the heartbeat’s rhythm in the left atrium—the top section of the heart. One may have this irregular heartbeat for several months before or after being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. The condition develops when the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly and chaotically. An irregular heartbeat can cause severe damage to blood vessels, making them leak fluid. If left untreated, this fluid buildup can lead to organ failure and other serious complications. Here are some of the common causes of AFib:

• High blood pressure: One’s blood pressure rises when exercising and decreases when fasting. However, one should opt for regular checkups with the doctor if they have abnormal blood pressure fluctuations or high blood pressure (hypertension).
• Damage following a heart attack or surgery: If one has had a heart attack recently or major surgery on one of the arteries—such as an angioplasty—the risk of developing AFib increases significantly. AFib occurs in 20% to 40% of patients after getting a coronary artery bypass surgery.

Common symptoms of atrial fibrillation are:

• A fast or irregular heartbeat
• Fatigue
• Dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness
• Sweating, palpitations (or rapid, pounding heartbeat), and shortness of breath (dyspnea). 

Additionally, people with the condition could also experience chest pain or weakness and shortness of breath when walking up the stairs or participating in a similar physical activity.

Best foods to manage AFib
Protein sources
Chicken and fish are rich in protein and iron. While beef is a good source of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B6, it is rich in fats that can increase cholesterol levels and the risk of AFib. So, one should substitute red meat with plant-based protein sources like tofu.

Yogurt
Yogurt is made by fermenting milk. It contains probiotics, which are known to improve digestive health and strengthen the immune system. According to some studies, probiotic-rich food is also good for the skin and hair. Probiotics are live bacteria or yeast cultures naturally occurring in the human gut. When consumed, these bacteria or yeast cultures ferment the lactose (the sugar found in milk) into lactic acid, which creates beneficial acids like butyric acid (fatty acid) and acetic acid (fruity). Probiotics can help one’s gut health and reduce the risk of digestion issues and heart problems.

Fresh fruits and other antioxidant-rich foods
Bananas contain high amounts of potassium and fiber, which help lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease. Fresh fruits are also low in sodium, a component of most foods responsible for increasing the risk of high blood pressure or heart disease. Further, foods like berries, nuts, and green tea have been shown to have favorable effects on the immune system. These foods contain antioxidants essential for the immune system, helping it prevent many diseases. Regular intake of antioxidants can also help significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E, as well as fibers that may help improve one’s overall health. Additionally, nuts like walnuts or almonds contain healthy fats that can lower cholesterol levels, while green tea is an excellent source of antioxidants.

Whole grain cereals and legumes
These plant-based foods are a rich source of nutrients beneficial for the heart. Whole grain cereals and legumes contain fiber, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, essential for maintaining heart health and one’s overall health. These foods also contain phytonutrients that may have anti-inflammatory effects on blood vessels.

Fish
Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, effectively reducing the risk of AFib by lowering one’s blood pressure levels. Additionally, fish such as salmon and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3s, so one can add seafood to their daily meals. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to lower the risk of abnormal heart rhythm in study subjects at risk of developing atrial fibrillation or flutter. The same study also showed that people with heart diseases who had more fish were less likely to develop cardiovascular diseases over time than those who did not eat fish regularly.

Mediterranean food plan
In addition to making changes to daily meals, one can consider following the Mediterranean nutritional regimen. It is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, helping reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The critical components of this food plan are:

• Fruits (especially berries): Fresh fruits like berries are high in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress
• Lean meats: Red meat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, so it is best avoided if one is dealing with AFib. However, lean meats such as chicken and turkey are great heart-healthy alternatives.
• Fish: Salmon contains an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to decrease triglyceride levels.
• Olive oil: This is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which helps reduce inflammation that can lead to blood clots and strokes. Olive oil also contains antioxidants that help improve blood flow and lower harmful cholesterol levels in the blood (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL).

 One can choose from a variety of heart-healthy foods to help maintain heart health and avoid developing an irregular heartbeat. If dealing with AFib, one should consult a doctor or a nutritionist before introducing drastic changes to their meal plans. Discussing food choices with an expert can help one avoid nutritional deficiencies.

After a season of cold, wet winters, you can look forward to spring and, along with it, a much-needed spring cleaning. Would you like to simplify the process with easy hacks to make your home look cleaner? Here is what you can do and avoid to make your home look clean, shiny, and brand new. From the attic to the yard, a few quick changes and fixes can make all the difference. 

Home improvement tips
Choose maintenance over repairs
When you own a home, you have a lot more responsibility to keep its systems up and running. In most cases, maintenance costs are much lower than repair expenses. Create and manage a maintenance schedule for cleaning, roofing, landscaping, HVAC, and plumbing. Instead of reaching out to a foundation repair expert when the wall cracks become a structural foundation issue, keep your home in great condition all the time. 

Try DIY projects
DIY home improvement projects can transform your living space. If you think tiny home improvement tasks require you to hire one expert after another, you might want to reconsider. You can find several online resources on converting one type of furniture into another (a dresser into a kitchen counter, for instance) or updating the look of cabinets or fans. Such DIYs help you reduce the cost of home improvements, and you can also make a day of it and involve your family to transform the space.

Upgrade to energy-efficient home systems
If you are looking to improve your home, start by creating a space that is energy- and cost-efficient. Energy-saving appliances may cost a little extra initially, but they will reduce electricity costs in the long run. Many brands offer a wide range of energy-saving devices that utilize energy and use renewable energy sources to power home systems, like lighting and kitchen appliances. Such devices are also easier to maintain in the long run, preventing the need for repairs in the future. 

Fix gutters
Rain gutters are crucial for keeping the foundation free from excess water that can weaken the structure. Dirty, clogged gutters make it more likely for water to seep into the foundation and affect the landscaping around the house, making it crucial then to contact foundation repair experts like AFS or Olshan. So, you should invest in a leaf filter or gutter guard to keep gutters clog-free. GutterBrush offers guards that filter debris and twigs to let the water flow with ease. 

Focus on landscaping
If you have a garden and a plethora of trees, shrubs, and herbs, you should try to keep the space healthy and clean. When the roots of trees are too close to the foundation, they can cause issues in the home’s footing. Keep large plants away from boundaries and schedule regular landscaping to ensure your garden remains tidy, lush, and vibrant. 

Maintain emergency funds
Home improvements will cost money, so do not skimp on the fixes and upgrade. Your home improvement costs might be dipping into cash that you saved for something else. To avoid your home improvement costs being covered by the money you saved for something else, maintain an emergency fund for repairs. You do not need to splurge a lot on improvements, but when sudden repairs or new appliances are required, ensure that you do not break the bank to make it happen.

Mistakes that result in messy homes
No junk drawer
At the end of every day, there are just a few miscellaneous items that you need to put somewhere. So, if you do not have a communal junk drawer, these items end up in open spaces. A great home improvement and cleanup tip is to find a spot for hiding your knick-knacks until you find the right place for them or the time to put them in their places. Even if you put things back, remember not to stuff them tightly. Leave a little room so that your home does not become messy. 

Open storage spaces
While open shelves displaying books and collectibles look great, it could be a reason your home looks messier than it is. Overcrowding is easier in open spaces because there is no limit. Try to edit your collection occasionally or use built-in shelves for a neater look. You can also invest in baskets or boxes for a uniform look and an organized home. 

Not putting dishes away
Even if your kitchen is clean and neatly organized, it can look messy if you do not put away dishes fast enough. The mere presence of dirty dishes can make the entire kitchen seem untidy. It is best to make a habit of going to bed after the dishes are cleared. You only need to put them in the dishwasher before bed and wait till the morning to put them away. That way, your counter is clean, and your kitchen will look neater.

Too much stuff
One problem with home decor is that you can end up putting too much on the counters. A few appliances, some decorative pieces, or a couple of DIY artworks would add character to your space, but too much of it can make surfaces seem cluttered. Stick to the gadgets you use most often and place minimal decorative items so you do not have too much going on. 

Excessive use of pictures
You can design your Louvre at home, but make sure your pieces are artistically chosen. Artwork on walls gives an opulent feeling. While a family picture can vitalize your living space, a set of images in every room can be too much. Instead, have a group of pictures or artwork arranged in one spot to create a curated and visually pleasing look. 

Wrong color combinations
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but using more than two colors or sets of shades in a room can overcomplicate things. Have a color scheme for each room, and do not rely solely on contrast. Have curtains and pillow covers in a similar hue, and ensure your decor matches the theme to avoid making the space seem cluttered.

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.

Today, we use the internet for almost everything: shopping, paying bills, communicating with friends, watching movies, gaming, and work. It would not be an overstatement to say that we use the internet just as much as we use oxygen. But while technology has made our lives easier, it has also increased the risk of cyber threats. Therefore, you must use the internet responsibly and take the steps necessary to prevent untoward incidents.

Ways to prevent cyber attacks
The following are a few tips to prevent cyber attacks and stay safe in the digital world:

Do not fall for phishing scams
Have you ever received an email or message saying you won a reward and asking for personal information to claim it? Such messages could contain dangerous viruses, and clicking on them could steal your data. A quick fix to such phishing scams is to avoid opening emails you are unsure about. If you do not recognize the email ID, delete the mail straight away. Also, remember to clean your trash folder periodically. If you own a small business, you could sign up for cyber security services like CrowdStrike’s endpoint software. The platform can protect every computer on your network from scams and malware in real time.

Set strong passwords
Setting passwords can be tricky. Most people set short passwords that are easy to remember and reuse them for multiple accounts. This makes it effortless for hackers to guess the password and simultaneously break into all your accounts. So, create a unique password for every profile, preferably using a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. If you think you will forget them, maintain an offline record. Do not write them online or store them on your computer.

Enable 2FA
As mentioned, you are making things easy for a seasoned hacker by using the same passwords everywhere. Accessing one account will allow them to “daisy chain” into another. If you still want to use the same password, enable 2FA (two-factor authentication). After doing so, you will have to enter one more form of identification besides a password to access your account, such as a PIN sent to your cell phone. Though it adds a few extra steps and takes more effort, it can prevent a hacker from accessing your profiles.

Be prompt with updates
If you are someone who always clicks “remind me later” on update notifications, it is time to break this habit. Browser updates typically fix flaws of their previous versions, patch security vulnerabilities, and improve existing features or add new ones. The latest version is usually safer and easier to use. So, do not delay updating your software when you have the opportunity.

Use social media cautiously
Many people are guilty of using social media the way they behave in the real world. Some are naturally chatty and love talking about themselves. But when this habit translates online, it invites many dangers. When you talk about yourself a lot and find someone who does the same online, you tend to trust them. Unfortunately, this is how many fall for scams, lose money, buy damaged products, or get preyed on in other ways. So, deal with people online a little skeptically.

Shop safely
As more and more businesses go online, the number of unreliable websites appears to be increasing. So, check the URL of web pages thoroughly. If discounts and offers seem too good to be true, they probably are not. Also, never save your bank details on any website. If your internet account is hacked, the hacker gets access not just to your account but also to your money. Use safe websites from brands you know or ask others for recommendations. Online reviews can also be fake, so ask reliable sources for advice.

Do not use unsafe flash drives
Backing up your files is essential, but where you back them up also matters. An external flash drive can be filled with malware that can affect your entire network of devices and steal almost all their data. Always use your own flash drive or one that belongs to someone you trust. If it is not your device, it is best not to use it. If you have no choice, install antivirus software before using risky drives to prevent a cyber attack.

Browsing mistakes to avoid
The following are a few mistakes to avoid when using the web browser to prevent a cyber attack:

Browsing with free Wi-Fi
Your local library or cafe’s free Wi-Fi is just as tempting to a hacker as it is to you. Public Wi-Fi networks can be an attractive hotspot for hackers to upload malware, and as you join it, their software can gain access to your passwords and other data on your device. So, avoid the mistake of joining public Wi-Fi. Even if you do, do not pay bills or check your tax returns while connected. The home is where the internet is safe and where you can access any account or website.

Opening multiple tabs
If you usually multi-task to complete work projects, you probably open several browser tabs. Sometimes, a site may catch your eye, so you may leave it open for later and create a new tab as you do not have time for it. Browser performance suffers when you open multiple tabs, increasing the risk of vulnerabilities. It is best to bookmark pages and open them later or spend a few minutes to finish the job instantly. You can send the link to a friend and talk about it instead of suffering from low browser performance.

Enabling all cookies
Cookies are tiny files stored on your browser. These files are usually harmless and are meant to improve the browsing experience. However, some websites can use them to track your web behavior. So, allow cookies only from the websites you trust.

While almost everyone knows the dangers of the internet and the mistakes one could make, they adopt a complacent approach to browsing and believe that none of the catastrophes could affect them. One should avoid this attitude and take the necessary steps to stay safe online. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry.