Atopic dermatitis – Causes, symptoms, and more

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, neurological condition. Doctors have yet to identify the cause of inflammation but attribute it to a complex link between genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. About 2.8 million people in the world were affected by MS in 2020, the number continues to increase worldwide. The condition can lead to loss of vision, immobility, chronic pain, muscle weakness, and other complications.

How does MS develop?
The function of the nerve cells in the body is to send and receive signals from the brain. Each nerve cell has three parts: the soma or cell body, the axon or the cell trunk, and the dendrites. Together they transport the nutrients necessary for the nerve cells, convert signals into electric impulses, and send them throughout the body. The organs and limbs receive these signals, make changes, and respond accordingly. A myelin sheath is a sleeve or a protective covering around nerve cells made of lipids, proteins, and fats. Multiple sclerosis occurs when our immune system becomes faulty and mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath in the brain and spinal cord. This damages the myelin or causes lesions, plaque, or sclerosis, disrupting the process of transferring a message from the nervous system. So, the communication from and to the nervous system breaks down. The messages from the cells now may be slow or inaccurate, or the recipient’s body parts may ignore them completely.

Warning signs
MS is a progressive condition more likely to affect women than men. Here, the damage to the nervous system gradually worsens. While some may experience one or two major symptoms, others may experience more. The severity of the symptoms also fluctuates from mild to severe, with periods of remission in between. Though there is no cure yet, with proper treatment, rehabilitation therapies, and lifestyle changes, one can manage the symptoms and live an active life. Recognizing the sudden and abnormal changes can help in the early identification of MS. Early treatment can prevent serious health complications like high blood sugar, bone loss, fractures, kidney problems, frequent bruising, and reduced adrenal gland function. A few early signs are:

Muscles stiffness and spasticity
Spasticity is when the muscle tone increases abnormally. It causes stiffness and pain and makes movement difficult. It can also lead to sudden spasms and jerks in the arms and legs. Other symptoms include the involuntary crossing of legs, muscle fatigue, and sudden development of deformities.

Problems with vision
MS is an inflammatory condition that can affect any nerve cell. If it affects the eye’s optic nerve, the inflammation may cause pain and redness. It typically affects only one eye; one can experience blurred or cloudy vision, double or poor vision, or an inability to see color. If untreated, the eyesight can deteriorate, leading to early cataracts or vision loss.

Pain
People with MS may feel aches associated with muscle stiffness and spasms and experience pain while moving an eye. Each person may experience different forms of mild or severe pain, interfering with their ability to carry out daily activities. The pain may be dull for some, while others may feel a squeezing, crushing, stabbing, or shocking sensation. Pins and needles or a tingling sensation are also common signs. Some may feel pain in their muscles and joints caused by muscle stiffness.

Lack of balance
The disruption in the communication process may cause a delay in the way messages are sent, processed, and received. Some messages may be incomplete or inaccurate. Consequently, different body parts may not be able to work together in sync. This causes a loss of balance, swaying gait, and inability to maintain posture. Some may not be able to feel the floor and misjudge their steps. Lack of balance can lead to frequent trips and falls, even while walking on even grounds.

Fatigue
Mild or severe fatigue without an apparent cause can be an early sign of MS. Fatigue may worsen through the day and affect the ability to carry out daily activities. Lack of bladder control is another symptom of MS, which may keep one from having a good night’s sleep. Symptoms like pain, confusion, and mood changes may also lead to depression, preventing them from sleeping and adding to fatigue.

Relapsing multiple sclerosis
New treatments have improved the prognosis for people with MS, improving their quality of life and helping them manage the symptoms. For some patients, the symptoms may flare up or recur after treatment. Between the episodes of flare-ups, one can go through periods of remission without experiencing any of the typical MS symptoms. This type of MS is called relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Most people initially experience relapsing multiple sclerosis, and it may take quite some time, a decade or more, for the pattern of symptoms to change. Doctors diagnose the condition as RRMS if the symptoms last for at least 24 hours, during which they also worsen. The relapses are followed by a period of remission where some or most symptoms completely disappear. The symptoms of RRMS include sensitivity to heat and humidity, vision problems, numbness and tingling in the feet, weakness, fatigue, confusion, frequent urination, incontinence, and balance issues leading to falls.

Diagnosis and management
A neurologist will recommend multiple tests to rule out other diseases before confirming MS. They will conduct a detailed physical examination to check for vision and balance problems. They may also ask for brain and spine MRIs to locate the damage and functions affected. In a technique called “visual evoked potentials”, painless electrodes are attached to the scalp to measure the brain’s response to the objects one sees. Doctors may also do a spinal tap to check for abnormalities in the spinal fluid.

The goal of treatment for regular or relapsing multiple sclerosis is to reduce inflammation and the severity of symptoms and slow the disease progression, for which doctors may recommend prescription options. They may also recommend plasmapheresis—a procedure to cleanse the blood. Mobility devices like canes or walkers to maintain balance can also help.

Buying a truck is a massive investment. On top of that, people tend to use trucks for several years, if not decades, due to the tough, enduring nature of these vehicles. Therefore, it is imperative to get everything right when purchasing a truck. There is a list of factors to ensure and another list of things to avoid while purchasing a massive people and load carrier. Here are the main dos and don’ts of buying trucks:

Dos
Here are the things one needs to ensure before putting down their hard-earned money on a truck:

• Check if the dealer provides an extended warranty
  

  Certain dealerships offer an extended warranty option for buyers. This is a useful alternative as it provides financial cover for repairs beyond the initially offered warranty period. Buyers must research which dealers offer this avenue on their trucks, as it tends to be rare. Also, one downside of an extended warranty is that buying and accommodating a purchase deal can be expensive.

  However, it is an option worth considering just for the ease of ownership and use it brings to a truck purchase deal. Truck owners would not have to worry about paying exorbitant repair fees for many years if they included an extended warranty when buying the vehicle of their dreams.

• Check towing and hauling capacity
  Towing and hauling capacity are the most critical aspects of purchasing a truck for many buyers. Fleet truck service providers mainly purchase trucks for commercial purposes. Trucks need to deliver massive payloads across large distances. So, in short, the larger a truck’s towing and hauling capacity, the more utility it will have for the individuals or companies purchasing it.

• Evaluate bed and cabin size
  

  Apart from commercial use, trucks may also be used to transport many people or family members. This means that cabin size and bed proportions are just as critical as towing capacity for buyers. If a buyer has a large family or a large number of people to seat and transport, they could purchase a large truck. Large trucks are expensive to own and run and consume large amounts of fuel. For all other purposes, mid-sized trucks can be more than adequate.

  In the case of pickup trucks, cabs are available in regular size (with two doors and no back seat), extended size (two or four doors with a small back seat), and crew (four doors with a large back seat). Pickup trucks also have multiple bed sizes, including short (around 5 feet), regular (around 6.5 feet), and long (around 8 feet). The bigger the cabin and bed sizes, the pricier a truck will be.  Buyers need to evaluate their needs and usage requirements before purchasing a truck.

• Be mindful of your budget and credit score
  This is a particularly overlooked aspect in the case of several truck buyers. Most buyers intend to purchase trucks on installment payments. However, to make the payment schedule smooth, one must know exactly how much they can afford every month. Additionally, buyers must be mindful of how much they can pay upfront for the vehicle. If an individual looking to purchase a truck goes to a dealership without considering or being aware of these two factors, they may land in financial trouble.

  Several vehicle loans or buy-now-pay-later installment options activate when a buyer’s credit score is high. Therefore, someone with a questionable credit history may not only find it difficult to get an attractive financing option while buying a truck, but they may also end up overpaying for the same. This is why picking a budget and relentlessly sticking to it is necessary, as it helps buyers avoid being out of pocket after a truck purchase.

• Take a test drive
  As is the case with buying any vehicle, taking a test drive is an essential step when purchasing trucks too. A test drive lets buyers know the pros and cons of every vehicle they drive, how spacious and comfortable they are, how accessible the cabin and various controls are, how well the engine works in various performance situations and other key attributes.

  Test drives expose the very best and worst of vehicles for prospective buyers. Therefore, most consultants and purchase advisors advise buyers to test all the vehicles they have shortlisted to buy before drawing a comparison between their pros and cons after a test drive.

Don’ts
Here are the things one should steer clear of while purchasing a truck from a dealership, either online or offline:

• Visit a dealer without a financing option
  Many dealership executives tend to make buyers believe that their financing options are the best option for them. However, buyers should know that these financing options are designed to make the most money for the dealerships’ finance departments and little else.

  Instead, buyers must consult with their banks or other financial institutions to find better financing options to smooth the purchase process. Visiting a dealership without a financial plan is not advisable, whether for truck purchases or truck equipment financing.

• Shop at just one dealer
  Different dealerships provide purchase offers for buyers, whether that is warranty-based extensions, other draws, or attractive discounts on their vehicles. One needs to visit multiple dealers and check out truck models from multiple manufacturers to get a wide array of options. By not doing so, one risks missing out on specific irresistible offers and discounts.

• Prioritize only price
  Price is a major buying factor, but solely prioritizing it can result in buyers purchasing semi-competent trucks with quality and performance issues in the long run. Now, “pricier” does not automatically translate to “better” regarding trucks. Nevertheless, one must take a holistic approach before putting their hard-earned money on a truck.  Other than these, some of the biggest don’ts are overlooking promotional offers and rebates and taking a new truck home until the paperwork is done.

Are you struggling with eczema flare-ups? Do the dry, itchy patches on your skin keep you from living an active lifestyle? Skin diseases and conditions like eczema can be uncomfortable and often embarrassing, but there are ways to manage the symptoms. This article will share some simple strategies for minimizing discomfort and living life to its fullest despite having eczema. Read on to learn more about managing your daily skincare routine and other helpful tips.

Common symptoms of eczema
Tiny bumps on the skin
Dry and scaly skin
Itchy rashes
Dark under eyes
Redness and swollen skin

Lifestyle changes that can alleviate eczema symptoms
While nothing can eliminate the symptoms of skin diseases like atopic dermatitis (AD) or eczema, they can be alleviated to a certain extent. Dermatologists propose the following simple changes to improve the situation:

Take lukewarm showers with mild soaps
Short, rapid showers with unscented soaps and moisturizing twice daily immediately after the shower might be enough for mild cases of eczema. Gentle soaps are recommended while taking a bath or washing hands in the kitchen. Use products without alcohol, retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), as they prevent skin dehydration. Additionally, avoid artificial fragrances because they include chemicals that can irritate the skin.

Consider taking a disinfecting bath
Due to their susceptibility to infections, people with skin diseases like eczema may benefit from bleach baths that mimic those in a chlorinated pool. Add a half cap of bleach to the water once or twice a week and soak for 10 minutes. A cup of vinegar added to a full tub of water may help the bactericidal effect (of killing bacteria) on the skin without causing harm.

However, according to the National Eczema Association, anybody with bleach sensitivity or allergic asthma should consult their doctor before doing this.

Moisturize the skin properly
Moisturize the skin after showering and whenever it feels dry. Well-hydrated skin is less vulnerable to irritants and bacteria that can get through the lipid barrier when dehydrated. Instead of a lotion, try a fragrance-free cream or ointment to avoid skin irritation.

Opt for fragrance-free skincare
If one suffers from eczema or related skin diseases, it’s important to watch out for artificial fragrances in skin care products. Don’t be fooled by claims of “unscented” – this often indicates that the aroma has been masked and could still cause an allergic reaction. Opt instead for completely fragrance-free items.

Consider patch tests of skincare products
All skincare products should be tested before use. Besides fragrances, some skincare chemicals like ethanol and lanolin might aggravate skin diseases like eczema. Applying a new skincare product to the inside of the arm for 7–10 days will help a person test it out. However, one can continue using the product when one’s skin shows no adverse reactions.

Find out what causes eczema
Knowing the causes of eczema flares and how to stay clear of these triggers is essential. From regular fabrics to certain temperatures – anything can be a potential source that may lead to an outbreak. Awareness of what brings on symptoms will support a person in keeping flare-ups under control.

Dress comfortably in 100% cotton
Loosen up the wardrobe to keep the irritation from eczema at bay. Opt for loosely fitted garments made with cotton, which helps air circulate better, keeping skin feeling healthy. When it comes to work attire, loosening a top button or two can provide much-needed relief without compromising style. Remember to opt for more comfortable shorts and underwear.

Put on gloves and go to bed
Suffering from dry, itchy hands due to a skin disease like eczema? Take proactive steps to soothe the skin before bed by soaking hands in warm water and applying a fragrance-free hydrating cream or ointment. Slip on some cotton gloves after application to help lock in moisture while sleeping.

Choosing the appropriate bedding
Choose bedding made from cotton, silk, or bamboo to help regulate body temperature and keep the skin feeling soft. Thread count plays an important role – the higher it is, the softer it’ll remain over time. However, lower thread counts can become rough if not washed correctly. Whether one opts for cotton sheets or indulgent silks, follow washing instructions properly.

Apply natural oils
Eczema-related blisters or exposed skin can lead to infection. Natural oils, such as coconut oil and sunflower oil, are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics, which can help a person avoid infections. Furthermore, they are natural moisturizers that help soothe the skin.

Observe the eczema treatment regimen
Consulting a dermatologist to develop a treatment plan is crucial whether one experiences occasional flare-ups or persistent eczema. One can also consult an allergist to identify the causes of the skin disease. Discuss alternative treatment options with the dermatologist in case of any side effects.

Ensure sufficient Vitamin D levels
According to research, children and adolescents with eczema or related skin diseases are more prone to having low levels of Vitamin D. Besides increasing sun exposure, one should consume vitamin D-rich foods like sardines, eggs, and salmon.

Discover ways to relax
Stress often manifests in poor personal hygiene, lack of a nutritious meal plan, and lack of sound sleep. These may directly impact the skin and aggravate eczema. Make time every day to unwind, even if only for a few minutes. Invest time in meditation, take a walk, or listen to calming music or a funny podcast to distract yourself from stress.

Wrapping Up
Skin diseases and conditions like eczema may be irritating, but there are various ways to protect the skin and manage flare-ups. Use an eczema-friendly moisturizer, avoid recognized irritants, protect the skin from wind, cold, and pool water, and adhere to the treatment plan. If one is still dealing with eczema or related skin diseases after trying some of these remedies, it is best to consult a dermatologist about different ways to treat outbreaks.

Constipation refers to infrequent bowel movements or difficult passage of stools. It is diagnosed when you have fewer than three bowel movements a week. Constipation can cause excessive strain on the intestines and can have an adverse effect on your daily activities. It can be chronic when induced by other health conditions. Since constipation is a condition affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, food is the essential key to managing the condition.

It is possible to alleviate or worsen constipation through the food. Eating the right food can help keep your intestines clear, but the wrong foods might bind the stools even further.

Fiber-rich foods to eat for constipation
Foods rich in fiber can help relieve constipation and keep your stool movements regular. The most common cause of constipation is the slow movement of food through the GI tract. This can be the result of prescription treatment options, diseases of the nerves, or psychological conditions. But most often, it is due to a poor food regime.

Here are five fiber-rich foods that can help manage constipation.

Prunes
One of the age-old remedies for constipation is dried plums, or prunes, as they are commonly called. With three gms of fiber per quarter cup serving, prunes can increase the amount of water in stools, thanks to the insoluble fiber it contains. The body cannot absorb the sorbitol in prunes; thus, it has a laxative effect in the intestine. And finally, the phenols in prunes can stimulate the gut biome and restore balance.

Kiwi
A single kiwi contains 2.3 gms of fiber, 9% of the recommended daily intake. It is not just the fiber, the enzyme actinide in kiwi also enables gut motility and improves bowel habits. Having two kiwis a day for over two weeks helps soften the stools. It also helps individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Kiwis can be eaten raw, added to a salad, or ground into a smoothie.

Flaxseed oil and olive oil
If you cook meals at home, a constipation-friendly nutrition plan is just one oil switch away. Olive oil and flaxseed oil have a mild laxative effect and can show immediate improvement in this health condition. Additionally, these oils contain compounds that can improve digestion. Olive and flaxseed oils may not have fiber, but they contain antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, allowing you to reap several benefits in one shot. It is a good idea to switch to olive oil for cooking on a regular basis.

Probiotics
Probiotics, as the name suggests, have a positive effect on the gut biome, and thus, help soften the stools and improve overall digestion. Studies show that kefir and yogurt can help reduce constipation. Doctors believe that regular consumption of cultured kefir that is thick and tangy can help prevent constipation. You can easily incorporate yogurt into the your daily meals. Have a cup of natural yogurt as an afternoon snack, add it to a blueberry or oatmeal smoothie, or enjoy a cup of yogurt for breakfast with muesli, which is also full of fiber.

Sweet potatoes
The sweet and orange version of potatoes is also a rich source of fiber. Cellulose and lignin in this vegetable are insoluble forms of fiber that help increase the bulk of stools. The soluble fiber pectin also helps improve gut health, softens stools, and speeds up the transit time of the contents of the digestive tract. People who ate just 7 ounces of sweet potatoes daily for four days experienced less constipation and lesser strain and discomfort while passing stools. It can easily replace potatoes in almost all recipes and can be roasted, steamed, mashed, or boiled in tasty ways.

Foods to avoid for constipation
Several foods can trigger or worsen constipation. Thus, it is a good idea to keep away from them. If you suffer from constipation regularly, you could reduce your frequent consumption of these foods in order to prevent it. But if constipation is a one-off occurrence, you may want to cut back on these foods for a few days.

Dairy products
Apart from dairy with probiotic properties, most other dairy products are associated with constipation. Young children are particularly sensitive to the proteins in cow milk. But cow milk can also cause problems in older people who have been consuming dairy for several years. Those with lactose intolerance experience the opposite effect, diarrhea, when they drink cow milk. Replacing cow’s milk with soy milk for some time might show improvement in the gut health of people with chronic constipation.

Processed grains
Processed grains and foods made with these, like white bread, pasta made from all-purpose flour, and polished white rice, are low in fiber. They tend to increase constipation and impede the movement of stools. It is also good to monitor the amount of fiber you eat since too much of it can also worsen constipation. It is good to discuss this with your doctor since they can tell you what is ideal given the other health conditions you suffer from.

Red meat
People having constipation should avoid red meat. This type of meat tends to be full of fat and is high in protein. Both these properties make it harder for the body to digest such foods. Red meat is devoid of fiber which makes it worse. It is better to turn to high-fiber sources of protein like beans or legumes to reduce constipation. If you are someone who cannot avoid meat, then at least make sure to supplement it with fiber-rich food to get some constipation relief.

Fried food and fast food
Large portions or frequent consumption of deep-fried and fast food can increase the risk of constipation. These meals are high in fat and low in fiber – a combination that is hard to digest and that slows the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Fast foods also tend to replace high-fiber foods in the meals. Eating chocolate or cookies makes you less likely to reach for apples or pears, reducing the amount of fiber you get. Thus it does not just lead to constipation but can also worsen it and cause other severe health issues. ​​

Menopause is a natural physiological transition that signals the permanent end of menstrual cycles. It is preceded and followed by several hormonal changes, leading to symptoms like heat flashes, sleep cycle disruption, and vaginal dryness. Unless they are severe, these symptoms do not usually require any medication. However, one’s lifestyle, such as what one eats or avoids, can alleviate or aggravate these symptoms. So it is essential to make certain food changes during menopause.

Foods to eat during menopause

Here are a few foods to eat when one is going through menopause:

• Yogurt
  It is a nutrient-dense food with a lot of health benefits. It is enriched with calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins D and K and helps balance estrogen levels, which decline during menopause. Adding yogurt to breakfast smoothies or having it as a snack can also help improve bone density since low estrogen increases susceptibility to bone breakage.
• Fatty fish like salmon
  Fatty fish include anchovies, herring, mackerel, salmon, black cod, sardines, bluefin tuna, whitefish, striped bass, and cobia. These are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Moreover, these have antioxidant properties. Regularly eating these can help alleviate a few menopausal symptoms by lowering the severity of night sweats and the frequency of hot flashes.
• Cheese
  Cheese is one of those foods that is often deemed unhealthy. However, it can be eaten guilt-free since it has several health benefits for those undergoing menopause. Including cheese in salads, sandwiches, and pasta can help manage perimenopausal (the phase before menopause begins) and menopausal symptoms. It can also be a standalone snack, such as cheese sticks, to get all the essential nutrients, such as protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamins K and D.
• Whole grains like barley
  Whole grains are packed with many minerals and nutrients, which are great for combating the effects of menopause. Brown rice, barley, quinoa, rye, buckwheat, oats, wild rice, bulgur, corn, and sorghum are tons of options for adding whole grains to meals. If looking for packaged foods made from whole grains, always read the label to check whether whale grin is listed as the first ingredient. This ensures that the product is genuinely whole-grain-based.
• Dark berries
  Raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries add vibrancy and color to meals and snacks and add a lot of nutrients. Rich in antioxidants, these berries help alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes. A great way to add these dark and colorful berries to meals is by topping them on cereals or salads and mixing them in juices and smoothies. Eating a handful of berries as snacks whenever hunger pangs strike can also help manage menopause and perimenopause.
• Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage
  Cruciferous vegetables contain calcium, proteins, and plant estrogens (phytoestrogen). They are a perfect addition to meals for managing menopausal symptoms. These veggies help in balancing estrogen levels that go on a decline during this phase. Some common cruciferous veggies that can be added to meals such as pasta, stir-fries, salads, soups, broth, and stews include arugula, bok choy, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and collard greens.
• Grapes
  Dark-colored grapes are particularly good for those looking for food changes during menopause. This fruit contains natural estrogen and vitamin C—these help deal with vaginal dryness, mood swings, hot flashes, and sleeping problems. Eating a handful of grapes a couple of times a week can help reap this fruit’s nutritional benefits.
• Eggs
  Whether poached, fried, or boiled, eggs have several benefits that help improve overall health. For those undergoing menopause, eggs’ rich protein and iron content are needed to manage the various symptoms. Protein and iron keep the blood sugar level stable and improve bone density, preventing mood swings and susceptibility to fractures.
• Legumes like chickpeas
  Legumes are another significant source of calcium, protein, and phytoestrogen. So it is useful to add them to meals as part of the essential food changes during menopause. Moreover, these are rich in fiber, carbohydrates, B vitamins, iron, copper, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and phosphorus. All of these help improve overall health and keep infections at bay. Chickpeas, black beans, green peas, lima beans, kidney beans, black-eyed peas, and navy beans must be added to regular meals to manage menopausal symptoms effectively.
• Flax and chia seeds
  Flax, chia, and hemp seeds add that necessary crunch to homemade granola bars, cookies, bread, salads, and trail mixes. Furthermore, they are loaded with many essential nutrients, and these seeds are a must-have for the kitchen. Rich in proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, these seeds help relieve several perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms.

Foods to avoid during menopause
Certain foods can aggravate the symptoms of menopause. Therefore, it is sometimes recommended to avoid these as part of the food changes during menopause.

• Processed foods like chips
  Processed foods, such as packaged snacks, including potato chips and cookies, have high sodium and sugar levels. Moreover, they contain significant levels of trans fats. All of these cause the boy to retain water. This causes bloating, which can worsen menopausal symptoms.
• Spicy foods like jalapenos
  Extremely spicy foods high on the heat scale can cause flushing and sweating. This can trigger extreme episodes of hot flashes. So instead of adding spicy ingredients such as jalapenos, it is recommended to use mild spices and flavors such as cumin, basil, and turmeric.
• Fast foods like burgers
  These foods may be convenient at the drive-thru, but they can aggravate menopause symptoms. This is because burgers, pizzas, french fries, and other fast food are usually made with high levels of sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats and carbs. These are bad for overall health as well as during menopause.
• Fatty meats bacon
  Fatty meats such as bacon and brisket are high in saturated fats. These can trigger heat flashes and cause a lot of discomfort. In addition, these meats can lower serotonin levels in the body. The drop in this hormone affects mood, leading to irritability and grumpiness.