Common kidney diseases and how to manage them

Most people with bad credit scores often struggle to get a loan. At first, it can be quite frustrating. Fortunately, today various lenders may offer loans ranging from $500-$5000 or above for bad credit. It can make things easier for individuals with poor credit scores. Nevertheless, one must be careful while taking out such loans. Hence, here are some important things that one must keep in mind during the process.

Things to consider while taking out bad credit loans

Keep an eye out for the best deal
In most cases, bad credit scores mean unfavorable terms for the borrower. However, this is not always the case. Some lenders can provide individuals with better negotiation terms and rates. So, to make the best of these bad credit loans, one must conduct thorough research and find lenders that can meet one’s requirements and preferences. Furthermore, one must look for the best deal with the most favorable terms. It includes transparency about the interest rates and additional fees.

Besides this, one must carefully read through the document. Then, the final decision can be made based on all the information provided in it.

Focus on the needs, not luxury
While it can seem tempting to take out a loan to buy luxurious items, it cannot be considered a wise investment. So, one must always consider all the needs and take out the loan accordingly.

If one finds this hard, try to make things easier by setting a clear budget that specifies all the needs that must be met. Although refraining from temptations can be tough, prioritizing one’s needs over luxuries and other irrelevant items can aid one in managing finances without falling deep into debt.

Consider having a co-signer
Sometimes, if a borrower has a bad credit score, it can become challenging for them to take out a bad credit loan all on their own. In such cases, asking a trusted family member or a friend (preferably a person with a good credit score) to act as the co-signer can be beneficial. It can help one get loans on better terms and even a lower interest rate.

But in such circumstances, one must remember that if one can’t repay the loan, the co-signer immediately becomes responsible for repaying it. So, before making the final decision, one must have a solid loan repayment plan in place.

Additionally, one must make sure to inform the potential co-signer about one’s financial situation in detail so that they can make an informed decision.

Know all the lending terms and conditions
Typically, all credit institutions and lenders have a set of lending terms and conditions that the borrower must meet and agree upon. In most scenarios, this must happen before one signs up for the loan.

Unfortunately, most people do not read through these terms and conditions carefully as they find it difficult to understand the technicalities and the jargon used in the document. However, these terms mention the necessary details of the loan, such as the debt amount, frequency of payment, the agreed rate of interest, and the implications of default payments. So, it’s important for borrowers to read the terms and conditions carefully before taking out the loan.

Things to avoid while taking out bad credit loans

Borrowing more than one can afford
Sometimes, it can be compelling to borrow a loan amount that exceeds one’s affordability, especially if one’s financial situation isn’t good. But during such trial times, one must consider the interest that has to be paid on the loans for bad credit, particularly in cases where the amount exceeds the $500-$5000 range.

Therefore, it is advised to take a closer look at the budget and one’s financial situation and realistically determine the amount that can be paid to the lender every month. If needed, set a loan limit to ensure one never borrows more than the set amount.

Falling for scams
In rare scenarios, issues such as a bad credit score can make one susceptible to potential scammers. So, before agreeing to the loan, one must be wary of indicators like approval of a loan without considering the credit score and fee requests before processing the loan application.

It is because most trustworthy lenders and credit institutions perform a check of the borrower’s credit history and worthiness. They do not ask for additional fees until the loan is approved. Therefore, if one finds a lender that makes shady promises and requests, chances are high that they are scammers trying to take advantage of one’s financial situation.

Making late payments
Usually, when one’s loan request is approved, one may find the amount quickly credited to the account. While this can be convenient for most individuals, the repayments should also be made at the right time. In cases where one makes the mistake of late payments, it can negatively impact the credit score. It can worsen matters as the lower the credit score, the more difficulties one may face in getting loans.  Also, default payments can hamper one’s trustworthiness, which can cause the lender to refuse larger loans.

Therefore, even if the loan amount ranges between $500-$5000, one must be mindful of the abovementioned factors while taking out a bad credit loan. This way, one can avoid all the potential pitfalls and make the best of the current financial situation. Furthermore, one must remember that defaulting on loan payments can result in legal action. So, pay back the loan amount as soon as possible or contact the lender and discuss all the options. If one faces difficulty figuring out the best lender who matches one’s situation and requirements, seek professional advice or look out for various lenders online to make a well-informed decision.

Purchasing concert tickets is a complicated task. Even when one does everything correctly, results are not always what one would like. Also, the availability of tickets both online and offline makes the purchasing procedure considerably more difficult. One might even be conned out of their hard-earned money in a matter of minutes if things don’t work out. So, it’s crucial to understand the mistakes that could be made and how to avoid them.

6 concert booking mistakes to avoid
You could be there cheering and enjoying the concert of your favorite performer this year if you try and avoid making the following mistakes.

Not doing your research
When planning booking tickets for a concert, it is necessary to check online where the tickets are available. Some tickets could be scams, some might not be easy to use, and others might not even carry tickets for the event you are interested in. Additionally, some sites offer tickets at lower rates than others. All this background research takes time, and having a friend who can guide you through this is ideal. But before deciding which website to trust, you also must get the details of the concert. Where is it? When is it? Does it overlap with an important meeting? Do you need to travel far? All these queries must be answered before booking since most sites do not allow cancellations. Planning could save you a lot of trouble. 

Waiting till the last minute
Are you the kind to put something off till you absolutely have to do it? Well, try to keep this habit from interfering with your 2023 music tour plans. Booking concert tickets last minute has many drawbacks. Firstly, you often end up paying more. As demand increases and the concert is closer, your ticketing company will likely make you overpay. Secondly, the best tickets in the house are possibly long gone. Concert ticket sales go live months before the event, so checking for tickets early ensures you get the best seats. Finally, early booking makes you less likely to fall for a scam. You have more time to research and thus are likely to find a reliable website. Last-minute bookings allow you to think less clearly, and scammers often use desperate fans to earn money. 

Not signing up for the pre-sale tickets
Many of us ignore the pre-sale ticket benefits. Most artists have a fan group on social media where they may announce pre-sale offers and discounts on tickets for their upcoming concerts. They sometimes also hold a giveaway on their social media account where they may give free tickets to a few of their lucky fans. So make it a point to join one of these groups and keep an eye out for the announcements.

Not comparing the prices
One of the major mistakes that people make while booking tickets is not comparing the ticket prices on various websites. It is highly recommended that you look up concert ticket prices on various credible websites, compare them, and then book from the website that offers you the best deal. If you do not compare the prices on various platforms, you could end up paying an unreasonable amount for the tickets.

Refreshing the website
Your favorite musician is on tour, and you log on to a reliable website to discover the best tickets for the show at a venue close to you. You wait with bated breath to book the tickets, and just when you are about to click a book, you click that little button that refreshes the webpage. This beginner’s mistake can make you lose your chance at the perfect seats, and you might need to start the booking process all over again. Remember to avoid this fatal error and simply wait. Since a large number of people are usually trying to book the tickets at the same time, the page is likely to slow down. However, be patient and wait so that your data and selected seats are not lost. 

Being impatient
The most common mistake one can make while buying concert tickets online is not being patient. This often disrupts the booking process and can be a harrowing experience that, at the time, seems like more trouble than it is worth. But rest assured that the angel song of your favorite musician could be an experience you treasure all your life if you manage to stay calm. Be well-prepared and confident in your research. You must not let a little trouble cost you the experience of a lifetime. Try to use multiple devices or make the booking with friends to ensure you cover all bases. Keep composed and level-headed, and remember what mistakes you must avoid and what steps will lead you to success. 

Bonus tip
Apart from the above errors to look out for, there are some things you can do to make your concert ticket-buying experience a lot easier. Sites like Vividseats are created to make your music tour seat more accessible and conveniently available. The following are three music and event ticket-buying websites you can trust to get you a front-row seat for the best experiences in 2023. 

Besides avoiding the above mistakes, people can also head to websites like Vivid Seats to book tickets to their favorite concerts this year. One can also filter out 2022 and look for all the music tours taking place in 2023. Moreover, Vivid Seats allows you to earn rewards for buying tickets through their site. The Vivid Seats app is easy to use and gives you a pleasant booking experience, and you can even get a refund if you cancel the tickets. If you are a “Hall of Famer,” a music buff, you can get an exciting non-expiring credit on your tickets. So, head on to their website and grab the best deals on concert tickets. 

Everyone likes using the internet. For example, you must have googled a new word today or checked the weather this morning. Your work, play, and possibly even relationships depend on the internet. However, you could make plenty of mistakes while using it. So, here are a few things you should keep in mind, along with some of the best 5G internet plans and everything else you need to know for an ideal home network!

Seven mistakes to avoid while using the internet

Letting the cookie monster run wild
Cookies are files created on your computer whenever you visit a website. This information usually contains login data and is inherently harmless. However, some websites may use them negatively by tracking your web-behavior. To avoid this, and maintain your privacy, be careful about allowing permission to cookies. The website itself assigns first-party cookies and, thus, is mostly safe. Third-party cookies tend to come from other domains like advertising agencies and must be allowed more sparingly. Only websites like online banking portals require third-party cookies for user verification.

Piling up tabs
Anyone uncomfortable with a bar tab can tell you how annoying it is to have something weighing on you. Most people habitually open a new tab whenever they encounter something interesting but never actually read the site. This action piles up, and dozens of tabs open, resulting in poorer performance. So what you can do to reduce this tab overload is group your tabs. Grouping allows you to categorize tabs neatly and improve performance simultaneously.

Falling for click-bait ads
Hackers use spoofing to make fake links and emails look legitimate. Such advertisements are usually catchy and look like they are from legitimate sources, often offering discounts or informing you about free giveaways. However, once you click on these, hackers send viruses your way, which can pose a security threat. So while using the internet, be vigilant and avoid shady links.

Retaining the same password for everything
This tip is for you if you use the same password for different accounts. Passwords are designed to keep your data and accounts safe. However, almost everyone is guilty of using similar passwords for different accounts. This makes it easy for top hackers to get your credentials in one go. If they steal one password, they can access your other accounts too. Remember to create different passwords for your accounts and keep track of them “offline.” Writing them down in your cloud-connected notes app is unfavorable for your internet security.

Over-sharing on social media
Everyone loves showing off their lifestyle. Or maybe you felt cute or angry. Most of these situations prompt some social media posts. However, it is dangerous to share too many details on social media. It is possible that someone looking to hide their identity uses your social media profile and exploits your account. So, be wary about how much your life, interests, and family details go online. It does not mean you must be paranoid about who notices your profile. It is essential, however, to be aware of how much you disclose and don’t reveal a mini autobiography for all and sundry to see and take advantage of.

Not using protection for public WiFi
That “Free WiFi” sign at a cafe probably caught your eye. But guess what? It probably also caught the eye of your not-so-friendly neighborhood hacker. But installing a VPN (Virtual Private Network) app can keep your online activities and data safe. It gives you a virtual IP address through which no one can track you. If you are skeptical about purchasing a plan, look for free VPN apps or consider installing a VPN plugin suitable for your browser. Once activated, you can use any WiFi you want without any worries.

Disregarding double safety offered by 2FA
2FA or two-factor authentication uses an extra device apart from your password to log in. Most accounts, including Google, Instagram, and LinkedIn, have 2FA set up, so you can effortlessly increase your safety and prevent a mistake that could endanger your data. Though the additional steps might seem tedious, especially if you forget your password, it is the safer option. If someone gets hold of your passwords, they still cannot access your accounts because they need a device the website recognizes as yours.

Five best 5G internet plans for your home
Now you know what not to do online. But how do you get online? If you are considering changing your internet service provider, the following are 5 of the best 5G internet plans in the market.

Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband
The Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband mobile service marketing says it is ten times faster than other 5G internet networks. The Play More and Do More plans have unlimited text, talk, data, and many subscriptions. However, Verizon is only ideal for those living in major cities.

T-Mobile Magenta MAX
T-Mobile Magenta MAX is one of the best plans. If you use plenty of data and want it without slow-downs, along with global roaming and complimentary Netflix, this is the plan for you. However, its speed could be more consistent with other 5G internet providers.

AT&T Unlimited Starter Plan
AT&T Unlimited Starter Plan includes free texting from 120 countries, spam and fraud alerts, and unlimited talk and data. The single drawback is that the carrier slows down data speed during congestion.

UScellular
UScellular is a standalone US network accessible in Iowa, Wisconsin, and the midwestern United States. Though relatively localized, the carrier boasts of fast internet at affordable rates.

Mint Mobile
If you have a small budget but want a service like T-mobile, then Mint is the suitable phone carrier for you. You can roam freely across the US and parts of Canada and Mexico and automatically switch between 4G and 5G, depending on which is better in the region.

Despite the widespread prevalence of diabetes and a lot of awareness about it, many myths and wrong information surround it. Patients tend to believe that only sugary foods can increase blood sugar and that avoiding sweets can help cure them. However, desserts are not the only source of sugar. Plenty of ordinary, seemingly healthy foods can also increase blood sugar. If you have diabetes, it is important to understand which foods to avoid.

Five surprising foods that can increase blood sugar
Aside from food, other factors that cause blood sugar’s sudden rise and fall are lifestyle, stress, certain underlying diseases, and prescription treatments. Lack of exercise, dehydration, and lack of sleep can also cause a spike in sugar levels. While most of us know that sugar and high-carb foods can cause fluctuation in blood sugar, here are five surprising foods that can increase blood sugar:

Brown rice
Brown rice captivated the hearts of fitness-conscious people as a superfood with many benefits. Many converted from white rice to brown rice. It is rich in fiber and antioxidants and helps in building immunity. However, it still has a high carb content that can be broken down into glucose, which enters the bloodstream after metabolism. Do not take more than 1/3rd cup of brown rice – anything more can spike your blood sugar.

Oatmeal
One cup of oatmeal contains about 27 grams of carbs. If you have been having packaged oatmeal or cooking plain oats on your own, both can cause an increase in your blood sugar. Instead of eating oatmeal alone, reduce the portion size and pair it with another dish like egg, yogurt, fruits, or nuts to reduce oats and control blood sugar. Use cinnamon or berries to add flavor. Do not add milk, dried fruit, artificial sweeteners, honey, or cream to your oatmeal, as it can spike blood sugar.

Sweet potato
Sweet potato is often considered an alternative to potatoes for people with diabetes. However, this should not be the case. All potatoes may have about 30 grams of carbs each. One or two boiled, roasted, or baked sweet potato can cause a significant spike in your sugar level.

Yogurt
Yogurt is a very popular snack and dessert as it contains probiotics and is very tasty. Unfortunately, store-bought flavored yogurt contains artificial sweeteners and preservatives. It is also heavily processed – all of which can increase blood sugar. If you love yogurt, you can learn to make Greek yogurt at home and add diabetic-friendly fruits as toppings instead of consuming processed yogurt.

Whole wheat bread and pasta
Whole wheat bread and pasta have been widely promoted as healthy alternatives to white bread and pasta made from refined flour. Though it may contain more vitamins and fiber than white bread, it may not benefit diabetes patients. These food items contain as many processed carbs as white bread!

Five signs that indicate excess blood sugar
Blood sugar can suddenly shoot up not just for people with diabetes but also for those recovering from heart disease or an infection. It is not a concern if you occasionally experience excess blood sugar, as it can return to normal on its own or with treatment. Excess sugar that does not come down for a long time is a cause for concern and leads to severe health complications. Knowing the early signs of excess blood sugar can help you identify it for yourself or your family member. Once you observe the changes in your body and identify possible signs of excess blood sugar, you can take corrective steps to reduce it. Visit your primary physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Five signs that indicate excess blood sugar are:

Frequent urination
An unusual and frequent urge to urinate is one of the first signs of high blood sugar. This happens as the kidneys work extra to send the sugar out of the body. If you urinate more than 20 times during the day, it is an indication of excess blood sugar.

Increased appetite
You may feel hungry even right after a meal. In people with type 2 diabetes, since the body is insulin resistant, the muscles can’t get energy from the food they eat and send a signal saying they want energy. This signal is what people with diabetes feel as hunger. The constant hunger is an indication of excess blood sugar.

Extreme thirst
Our body pulls the fluids from our tissues to dilute the excess sugar in the blood. The tissues become dehydrated, and as a result, you constantly feel thirsty even after drinking water. Increased urination also adds to the thirst. Extreme thirst is an early indication of diabetes and excess blood sugar.

Delay in the healing of wounds and bruises
Excess blood sugar causes blood vessels to stiffen, restricting blood flow to injuries and bruises. Because of this, it takes more than the standard time for wounds to heal. If you notice that cuts and bruises take longer than normal to heal, it could indicate excess blood sugar.

Frequent and unexplained infections
Bacteria thrive in blood with high sugar, putting diabetes patients at risk for frequent infections. Women are at higher risk for bladder and vaginal infections. It could be a sign of high sugar if you notice frequent infections.

Prevention of chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes
Both types of diabetes put patients at high risk for chronic kidney disease. It develops slowly and, in most cases, does not show any symptoms. Here are some ways by which you can prevent chronic kidney disease if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes:

Do not miss a doctor’s appointment; take the prescription on time without missing or altering the dosage.
Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels and keep them within normal range.
Test your sugar level periodically as advised by your doctor.
Do an A1C test at least twice a year.
Maintain blood pressure and cholesterol within limits.
Avoid food rich in phosphorous, sodium, and potassium.
Increase the number of fruits and vegetables.
Exercise regularly.

A home warranty provides homeowners with several benefits and coverage that significantly ease the financial and emotional burdens associated with unexpected home repairs or replacements. By selecting the right plan and reputable home warranty provider, homeowners can safeguard their homes, their budgets, and their peace of mind for years to come. Here is everything one needs to know about home warranties, from coverage options, benefits, and reputable companies to consider.

Benefits of a home warranty plan

Financial safety net
Purchasing a home is a significant investment. With a home warranty in place, homeowners get a financial safety net against any repairs or malfunctions. This peace of mind is particularly valuable for first-time homeowners or those with limited knowledge of home maintenance.
Convenience and accessibility
Home warranty providers usually have a network of pre-screened, licensed contractors and technicians who can promptly address repair or replacement requests. Homeowners can easily submit a claim through the warranty company, and a service professional will be dispatched to assess the issue. This convenience saves homeowners the time and effort of finding and vetting service providers themselves. Additionally, home warranty companies often operate 24/7, ensuring assistance is available whenever an emergency arises.
Increased resale value
A home warranty can enhance the resale value of a property. When potential buyers see that a home is protected by a home warranty, it provides an added layer of confidence and assurance. A warranty offers buyers protection against unexpected repairs, making the property more appealing and potentially increasing its market value. It is an attractive selling point that sets a home apart from others on the market, giving sellers an edge in a competitive real estate landscape.

Coverage options
Typical home warranty coverage plans offer protection for one’s home systems as well as appliances, and some additional coverage as per the varying needs of homeowners.

Cover for home systems
Coverage for home systems typically includes essential areas such as electrical systems, ductwork, heating systems, interior plumbing, and water heaters.
Cover for appliances
Appliance coverage includes items such as dishwashers, garage door openers, garbage disposals, air conditioners, ovens, cooktops, and more. One can opt for optional coverage for pool equipment, refrigerators, or spa equipment.
Additional and optional coverage
Additionally, many home warranty providers offer optional coverage for systems and items like well pumps, septic tanks, built-in microwaves, multiple refrigerators, or duplicate appliances.
Comprehensive coverage
Some comprehensive home warranty plans can extend coverage to any other appliances used by homeowners, including ceiling fans, trash compactors, motors and pumps, roof, and even provide services like pest control.

Process to claim a home warranty
Home warranties are typically renewed annually with varying conditions per policy, offering primarily repair discounts. Here are the steps to follow while claiming a home warranty:

Step 1: Review the warranty contract
Most coverages are subject to service call fees and deductibles, which can vary among warranty providers. So it’s important for homeowners to review the terms, conditions, and exclusions in their contracts to understand their financial obligations and claim eligibility.
Step 2: Document the issue
Once the issue in a covered item is identified, one needs to document the repair by taking photos or videos that clearly show the problem. It’s important to have visual evidence to support one’s claim and provide it to the warranty company if requested.
Step 3: Contact warranty provider
One needs to contact one’s home warranty provider to initiate the claims process. Most companies offer multiple avenues to report a claim, including phone, email, or an online claims portal. One may need to provide the necessary details about the issue, including supporting documentation if possible.
Step 4: Schedule an appointment
When a homeowner requests a repair or replacement, a service professional is dispatched to assess the situation. The warranty company typically assign a licensed and vetted service provider from their network to handle the repairs. One may also be allowed to choose a known provider nearby and the company may reimburse the costs later. One needs to coordinate with the assigned professional and schedule an appointment that works for both parties.
Step 5: Pay the fees
If repair costs exceed coverage, individuals are responsible for additional expenses. Most home warranties require homeowners to pay a service call fee, which is a predetermined amount one needs to contribute towards the repair or replacement. One is advised to maintain a record of all communication, invoices, receipts, and documentation related to the claim. This documentation will be helpful for future reference and can serve as proof of the service performed. Additionally, individuals can choose to cancel a home warranty plan after a year or premium payment completion and explore superior alternatives.

Costs of a home warranty plan
The cost of home warranty may vary based on factors like the type of home, its location, and the company chosen. According to Forbes, the annual cost of a home warranty comes up to $600 on average, which can go as low as $275 or over a thousand dollars for more customized plans. It’s best to confirm the cost with a preferred company and compare a few offers before finalizing one.

Companies offering home warranties
Here are some reliable companies that one can consider:

Home Warranty of America
Home Warranty of America offers flexible home warranty plans designed to meet the diverse needs of homeowners. It also offers a money-back guarantee of up to 30 days on its repairs. With coverage for major systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and appliances, the company provides reliable protection against unexpected breakdowns.

Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard delivers comprehensive coverage plans and covers a broad range of systems and appliances, including heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, and kitchen appliances. Liberty Home Guard stands out for its straightforward claims process and commitment to customer satisfaction with up to 90-day workmanship guarantee. They also offer additional coverage for items like pools, spas, and well pumps.

American Home Shield
As one of the pioneers in the home warranty industry, American Home Shield (AHS) has built a solid reputation with their 30-day workmanship guarantee and an extensive network of certified technicians. AHS provides customizable plans that cover about 23 appliances and systems and also additional coverage options for leaky roofs and garage refrigerators.