Key things to know about macular degeneration

After a long day, all you probably want to do is kick back and relax, say, by watching television and listening to music. One of the ways you can elevate at-home entertainment is by installing stereo speakers that can enhance the audio quality. However, not all speakers might be the best fit for your home. So, to help you get started, here are a few things to consider before buying stereo speakers:

Budget
Stereo speakers come at varying price points. You could get one for as little as $70. However, the price can go up by thousands of dollars based on the brand, model, and popularity of the product. But buying the most expensive speaker does not necessarily mean that it will offer the best sound. Several factors go into determining the cost of a speaker, such as the brand, quality, size, and features. Further, you do not have to spend a lot of money on massive speakers for a small room. Similarly, a tiny, inexpensive speaker may not be the ideal choice for a large home. So it is important to set a budget considering your requirements before you make a purchase.

Sound quality
The quality of sound you need from stereo speakers should be a key factor in choosing the best option. So, before you pick a stereo setup for your home, head to a store and test the sound of multiple stereo speakers. You could ask the sales representative to give you a demo by playing an audio track or a movie. The key to selecting a good set of speakers is to look for ones with a balanced tone and those which are easy on the ears for longer periods. However, this is subjective as some prefer output that has higher trebles while others enjoy a setup with more bass. So, choose the one that gives you the kind of sound you want.

Type
While shopping for speakers, you will find a ton of options. Popular types include bookshelves and floor-standing stereo speakers. While these options usually have the best overall sound output, they may take up more floor space, which is something you should consider. On the other hand, you could opt for small satellite speakers and combine them with a subwoofer to create a high-performing, compact audio system. Additionally, a soundbar may work for those who want to enhance the audio experience at home without giving up too much space.

Room specifications
Apart from looking for the ideal set of speakers, you also need to think about the room and acoustics. The dimensions, materials, and contents of the room can determine the suitability of the speakers. Remember that sound can bounce off exposed walls, bare floors, and large furniture. On the other hand, the audio generated by speakers might be absorbed by rugs, carpets, and cushions. So, it is good to have a balance of both elements.

Amplifiers and receivers
While shortlisting the best speakers, you should also consider additional equipment. You may need an amplifier or receiver to deliver the right amount of power to the stereo speakers. A manufacturer will usually recommend a range of amplifier power necessary to power each unit. Some speakers may require 30 watts of output power to function well, while others might need 100 watts. Additionally, if you are going for a multi-channel or a surround-sound setup, it is better to stick to the same brand to ensure maximum performance from the speaker setup.

Protection
You would want your speakers to last a long time, especially if they cost a lot. One of the top areas of a speaker susceptible to physical damage is the tweeters. Some speakers come with tweeter grills, while others may not. So if you are going to pick up the latter, consider getting protectors for this component to shield it from accidents, especially if you have kids and pets around. At the same time, you could look for extended warranty options from manufacturers and retailers that could help you secure the cost of replacement or repairs for a few additional years.

Reviews
One of the most important things to consider before buying stereo speakers is the user reviews. You can find ratings and reviews on several retail websites. Customers usually share the pros and cons of speakers. Additionally, if a family, friend, or colleague has stereo speakers that you are considering, you can ask them about their experience. Certain channels on video streaming platforms review speakers to help users better understand the speaker’s functions. You could use this information to make a more informed decision.

Service centers
Buying a set of high-quality stereo speakers does not mean they will run without glitches forever. So, manufacturers or third-party retailers usually offer warranty coverage for a year or more and can either replace or address any defects. However, not all brands would have service centers to repair or replace the electronics in your region. So, before making a purchase, you should check if the manufacturer or the retailer offers after-sales services for speakers in your area. This could make it easier for you to get repair services quickly if the speaker stops working as it should.

A key tip to follow while buying stereo speakers is to avoid rushing the decision. If you are unsure of the type of sound system you require, consider shortlisting affordable speakers that you think will meet different needs. Compare prices, features, and warranty and then select the most suitable option. Alternatively, you can buy two affordable speakers if you cannot pick just one, and each set caters to different needs. Taking the time to explore your options can help you find the best set of speakers for your home.

After the COVID-19 pandemic began, people have started taking nasal congestion more seriously, and maintaining good health has become more of a priority to many. But it is important not to let this vigilance translate to frequent visits to the doctors. Instead, one must equip oneself with effective home remedies and develop healthy eating habits. The following are 5 remedies for cold and flu and 5 foods that will help relieve nasal congestion.

Home remedies for cold, flu, and nasal congestion
Taking a hot shower
The most obvious remedy for colds is a hot shower. Even without the flu, a warm burst of water can majorly relieve nasal congestion. Apart from washing away tiredness, inhaling the steam relieves pain and reduces pressure in the sinus, allowing a person to breathe easily for a while. If one is too tired for a hot water shower, one can use an electric facial steamer, which is more convenient. One could use a towel to cover one’s head and the steamer to increase the vapor’s concentration. 

Investing in a humidifier
Most flu-causing viruses thrive in cold, dry environments. And humid air helps soothe irritated nasal tissue. Hence, nasal inflammation can be reduced by using a humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer. Humid air also thins mucus in the sinuses and allows them to drain quickly. This health remedy is beneficial when the air is more dry in the winter season. A similar effect is produced when one takes a long hot water bath. Ensure to regularly change the water in the bathtub or humidifier to prevent fungi and mold from growing. The effects can further be stimulated by adding essential oils like eucalyptus. 

Menthol
Congested airways often dissolve when brought into close contact with menthol. Menthol is a compound from mint plants and contains antibacterial and pain-relieving capacities. Many vapor rubs contain this ingredient, and one can also use menthol essence in a humidifier. Menthol inhalation reduces coughing that is caused by environmental irritants and is effective in clearing congested sinuses. Menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor can all help improve sleep as well. 

Sleeping right
Nasal congestion often worsens at night, and thus sleeping well becomes difficult. Elevating the head can help reduce nasal congestion, so sleep with an extra pillow under the head/neck. Though it might seem like an awkward position, it can help a person sleep better, at least temporarily. Due to gravity, the mucus tends to pool or back up and not drain when one lies flat. Adding a cool-mist vaporizer to the bedroom can help thin the mucus and relieve blocked sinuses. 

Getting enough rest 
A cold or flu exhausts a person, and it is interesting to know that it is not the pathogen but rather one’s immune system that makes one tired. However, when one understands this, it is a short leap to say that rest can help one’s body gain energy to fight off the infection. Take at least a day off work and relax with a television series or soothing music. Remember to pile on the blankets and stay cozy. One can also try a warm compress to help loosen the mucus in the sinuses and breathe easier. 

Trying garlic
Despite its pungent smell, garlic is good to get used to for its cold-fighting capabilities. It contains a compound called allicin that has antimicrobial properties, which can reduce the severity of flu and cold symptoms. It is easy to incorporate into one’s daily meal plan as it is a perfect ingredient for various raw, roasted, pureed dishes, etc. Additionally, garlic also helps to improve heart health. 

Trying honey
Honey is one of the best sweeteners with a variety of antimicrobial properties. It allows the body to fight pathogens related to colds and flu. It is good to have honey to prevent it even before one develops a cold. And it is also beneficial when one does not have a cold to promote overall health and improve immunity. Stir a spoonful of honey into a cup of warm water or tea for extra flavor or to soothe the throat. The warm water also helps loosen mucus and relieve nasal congestion. 

Having chicken soup
Chicken soup is hailed as a cure-all in several households. Chicken soup provides relief when one has cold, flu or nasal congestion. When hygienically prepared at home, this hot soup, rich in nutrients, helps relieve a sore throat and stimulates nasal clearance. The protein from the chicken and vegetables provides energy to recover faster. Chicken soup has the ability to slow down the white blood cells so that they can concentrate in areas of the body that need to be healed. Adding in wholesome vegetables can also help a person regain strength faster. Low-sodium chicken soup is also a great choice to keep a person hydrated and nourished. 

Keeping the body hydrated
The body loses a lot of water when a person gets a flu or cold. Hence, it is important to consume fluids to keep the body hydrated. Gargling with warm water and salt can help remove pathogens in the throat. Adding astringents to the mix can also help reduce the irritation in the throat. It is best to drink steaming hot liquids to soothe the inflamed membranes in the nose and throat. Hot herbal tea or honey can be mixed in warm water to soothe the nose and throat. Do not drink scalding water since it can further worsen the symptoms. 

Having ginger
Ginger is another spice that is perfect for clearing nasal congestion. One can chew a few thin slices of fresh ginger or boil some pieces in water as tea to soothe the throat. It also helps relieve other health conditions’ symptoms. Additionally, ginger can reduce the nausea that accompanies the flu. Fresh ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can boost immunity and restore health faster. 

Chronic bronchitis is a common condition that affects the lungs and causes inflammation, breathlessness, and coughing. It affects more than 11 million people in the country. This long-term condition can be managed with effective treatment and lifestyle changes. In addition, eating a healthy and balanced meal plan is one of the easiest and most effective ways to manage the symptoms of chronic bronchitis and reduce the risk of flare-ups.

Many foods can help reduce inflammation and support healthy lungs. Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, citrus fruits, and leafy greens, can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can also help improve overall lung health.

Vegetables
The vegetables that are best to maintain a healthy pair of lungs are pumpkins, cabbage, red cabbage, Brussels sprouts, savoy cabbage, broccoli, broccolini, cauliflower, bok choy or Chinese cabbage, turnips, bell peppers, cayenne peppers, turmeric, beets, beet greens, tomato, onion, garlic, ginger, carrots, horseradish, radish, and daikon.

Doctors suggest eating a range of colorful vegetables is essential as the color pigments contain compounds suitable for the lungs and the whole body. The cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, and bok choy contain sulforaphane, essential in lung maintenance and function. The red bell peppers and cayenne flavonoids are among crucial minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. Tomatoes contain lycopene, carotenoid antioxidants that improve lung health and processes. In contrast, turmeric, ginger, and garlic are antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. 

Leafy greens
Including dark leafy greens in your daily meal plan can keep your lungs healthy. Some include kale, Siberian kale, tatsoi, wild arugula, watercress, mint, garden cress, collard greens, spinach, Japanese mustard spinach, and swiss chard.

These leafy greens contain iron, potassium, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin D, and carotenoids, crucial to reducing inflammation of the lungs as they have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Notably, the chlorophyll in the leafy greens improves blood flow throughout the body, especially to the respiratory system, enhancing lung health and increasing oxygen levels in the blood.

Fish and meats
Oily fish, such as salmon, trout, sardines, herring, anchovies, mackerel, and tuna, are excellent sources of vitamin A, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support healthy lung function. In addition, lean meats, including chicken, pork loin, chicken liver, lean ground beef, and turkey, can also help improve lung health and increase immunity and strength. 

Grains
Whole grains, such as oats, quinoa, barley, and brown rice, also benefit people with chronic bronchitis. These foods are fiber-rich, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Whole grains contain healthy fatty oils, vitamin E, and antioxidant flavonoids like selenium. Many studies suggest that whole grains also reduce the risk of lung cancer. In addition, nutritionists recommend switching from processed grains to whole grains to improve overall health, as whole grains have a higher glycemic index and antioxidant properties.  

Fruits
The fruits that are good for the lungs are apples, oranges, berries such as blueberries, raspberries, cranberries, strawberries, oranges, tangerines, mandarins, grapes, grapefruit, pineapple, lemons, mangoes, apricots, prunes, and pomegranates. The berries contain anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant and one of the essential components that keeps the lungs healthy. The grapes and grapefruit contain flavonoids such as naringin, crucial in suppressing cancerous growths. 

Citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, mandarins, and lemons are rich in vitamin C essential for overall lung health. Apart from vitamin C and naringin, these fruits are rich sources of vitamins A, B, K, folate, choline, magnesium, beta-carotene, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, iron, and zinc, all of which are essential for the smooth function of the lungs, and the overall respiratory system. 

Seeds and nuts
Healthy seeds are mustard seeds, wasabi, canola, rapeseed, Ethiopian mustard, flax seeds, pumpkin seed, sunflower seeds, and all kinds of lentils. These seeds are rich in phytochemicals, including vitamins C, E, magnesium, and potassium, which boost the immune system and strengthen the lungs. Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews can also be included in one’s daily meal plan. While walnuts contain abundant omega-3 fats, Brazil nuts contain selenium, which is excellent for improving respiratory functions and enhancing the immune system. 

All lentils contain polyphenols which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, recent studies suggest that lentils have lung-repairing and cleansing properties. 

Understanding chronic bronchitis flare-ups
The exact cause of a flare-up is not always known, but there are specific triggers that can increase the risk of a flare-up. Common triggers include exposure to cold air, irritants like smoke or dust, and particular treatments. Stress, fatigue, and weather changes can also increase the flare-up risk.

Identifying and avoiding triggers is essential to reduce the risk of a flare-up. Keeping a diary to note your symptoms and possible triggers can help you identify what may be causing the flare-ups.

Foods to avoid with bronchitis flare-ups
Certain foods may worsen the symptoms of chronic bronchitis and increase the risk of a flare-up. Therefore, avoiding excessive intake of saturated fat foods, such as red meat, processed meats, and fried foods, is essential. These foods can increase inflammation and make it harder for the lungs to function properly.

Avoiding foods high in sugar, such as sweets and sugary drinks, is also essential. These foods can dangerously cause an increase in blood sugar levels, worsening inflammation and causing breathing difficulties.

Tips for managing bronchitis flare-ups
In addition to following a healthy, balanced meal plan, certain lifestyle changes can help manage chronic bronchitis and reduce the risk of a flare-up. In addition, regular exercise can help improve lung health and reduce inflammation.

Also, knowing your triggers and avoiding them can significantly improve your condition. These tips can help manage your chronic bronchitis and reduce the flare-up risk. In case of any questions or concerns about your condition, it is best to consult a doctor at the earliest.

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) occurs when the usually stable and regular electrical impulses in the heart’s upper chambers (atria) begin firing chaotically, causing them to quiver or twitch (fibrillate). This can cause blood accumulation and clotting in the atria. These clots can reach the lungs through the blood vessels and cause pulmonary embolism or can reach the brain, resulting in a stroke. Let’s look at the forms, signs, and causes of Afib and its treatment options:

Types of atrial fibrillation
Afib can be classified as one or more of these:

First-diagnosed Afib: Regardless of symptoms or the number or length of episodes, this refers to individuals diagnosed for the first time with Afib.

Asymptomatic Afib: This condition is also called silent Afib, given the lack of signs or symptoms. A random electrocardiogram (ECG) could reveal asymptomatic atrial fibrillation.

Paroxysmal Afib: Two or more episodes of the conditions that spontaneously resolve within a week are categorized as paroxysmal Afib.

Persistent Afib: This refers to two or more episodes of atrial fibrillation that last seven days or more.

Long-term persistent Afib: If the condition persists for more than a year, it is referred to as long-term persistent Afib.

Permanent Afib: This is a chronic condition that cannot be managed using common treatment options. So here, the patient and doctor decide to stop treatment to get the heart rate back to normal and begin considering other management options.

Causes and risk factors
Typically, the condition is brought on by coronary artery disease or high blood pressure. Often, atrial fibrillation is triggered by an irregular heartbeat. However, it might occasionally be difficult to determine what triggered such irregularity, and there may be no apparent cause in some cases. In most cases, Afib runs in families, so if one has a family history of the condition, i.e., a close relative has the condition, the likelihood of developing the condition increases. Further, the risk of this kind of rhythm disturbance can be a result of factors like:

Cardiomyopathy
Atherosclerosis—the hardening of the arteries—or coronary artery disease brought on by persistent and uncontrolled high blood pressure
Rheumatic heart disease in children
A heart surgery
Heart diseases
Heart valve dysfunction
Pulmonary embolism
Age
Chronic pulmonary disease and stress on physiological processes

Symptoms
Some people may not experience clear Afib symptoms, while others could experience the following:

Feeling faint or light heart palpitations (a feeling that the heart is beating too hard or skipping a beat)
General weakness that cannot be explained by an apparent cause; a quick heartbeat, or an irregular pulse
Breathlessness, especially when exercising, resulting in inexplicable exhaustion
Finding it more difficult to exercise

Management options
Doctors may recommend one or more of the following methods to treat atrial fibrillation, depending on the severity and type:

1. Prescription options: The initial line of treatment for atrial fibrillation is prescription options. While these may not treat atrial fibrillation, they frequently assist in making the symptoms bearable. This could include:

   Controlling the heart rate : During atrial fibrillation episodes, slowing down or regulating the heart rate can significantly relieve the symptoms. Prescription options are recommended by doctors to regulate heart rate during bouts of atrial fibrillation.

   Stroke prevention : Patients with a high risk of stroke may be prescribed blood thinners, and other prescriptions may be recommended for those at a lower risk. Devices or surgical options that could eliminate the cause of the stroke may also recommend to patients.

   Controlling the heart rhythm : Afib events can be avoided by maintaining the heart’s rhythm in the normal sinus rhythm, i.e., the healthy state. For low-risk patients, prescriptions referred to as antiarrhythmic options can help manage cardiac rhythm.

2. Catheter ablation: Here, the doctors may carefully remove portions of the heart tissue. In this minimally invasive operation, doctors focus on eliminating the source of the faulty electrical signals or rerouting the signals that are causing irregularities in the heartbeat. Typically, thin, flexible wires (catheters) are inserted into a vein to the heart. The wire’s tips have electrodes that transmit radio waves, which produce heat and damage the chosen cardiac tissue to stop the abnormal signals in the heart.
3. Left atrial appendage closure: People with A-fib who are unable to use blood-thinning treatment options can reduce their risk of blood clots and stroke with LARIAT surgery. Here, the doctor threads a catheter with a suture to the heart. The left upper chamber is then closed, and as a result, blood clots cannot leave the chamber and travel to the brain, where they could cause a stroke. The LARIAT procedure is carried out by making tiny punctures in the skin as opposed to standard surgical procedures, thereby enabling quicker recovery and lower risk of problems.

4. Surgical procedures: Some people benefit from surgery, in addition to prescription options and catheter ablation. For those with the conditions listed below, the “traditional” or “cut and sew” MAZE treatment is a surgical option. It is usually recommended when:
   
   Despite other treatments, atrial fibrillation symptoms persist
   One experiences serious symptoms
   One requires surgery for a valve or a coronary artery bypass graft
   One has a heart attack

   The MAZE method places electrical barriers or blocks in the atria, the upper heart chambers, which reroute the aberrant electrical signals from the heart that cause atrial fibrillation and restore regular heart rhythm. A heart-lung bypass machine is used during this open-heart surgery, which is conducted by making a sternotomy incision in the patient’s chest.

5. Pacemaker: A pacemaker may be helpful for persons with certain heart rhythm issues, especially when the heart pumps too slowly. A pacemaker is a tiny, battery-operated device that administers modest electrical impulses to the heart, assisting it in establishing regular, efficient beats. Permanent pacemakers are placed in the chest using local anesthesia and non-invasive surgery. The doctor will make a tiny incision in the wall of the chest just below the collarbone, after which cables (called leads) are inserted into the upper chest and reach the heart.

Migraine is a condition that can develop in anyone, however, women are three times more likely to get it. Some may have one or two episodes a year, while others could experience more than 10 episodes a month. The symptoms and severity of an episode may vary from one person to another. Migraine usually develops as a headache, beginning on one side and spreading to the entire head or shifting from one side to another.

Severe signs to recognize
Moderate to severe headache, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite and abdominal pain, and feeling too warm or cold are also common symptoms of a migraine. These symptoms are not alarming and get better with proper treatment and rest. However, there are some signs of headaches and migraines that one should not ignore.

Migraine with aura
As migraine is a neurological disease, one may experience symptoms like aura, where they see halos, flashing lights, zig-zags, and blank spots. Some may even experience a temporary loss of vision. Aura symptoms typically begin within one hour of the onset of the migraine. These symptoms usually last between thirty minutes to one hour. Some may experience confusion, weakness, or paralysis. Though aura symptoms alone are not dangerous, they could indicate other conditions like stroke. One should consult a doctor or a neurologist for a thorough examination and diagnosis if they observe this symptom.

Headache that does not respond to treatment
If one has a persistent headache lasting more than two or three days, and if it does not respond to any treatment, it is important to consult a doctor. A migraine typically lasts between four hours to three days. But, if one does not see any improvement in the symptoms, their headache switches from one side to another, or they experience a ringing sensation in the ears, they should seek immediate help.

Sudden and intense pain
A migraine may have some warning signs one or two days before onset. Frequent yawning, stiffness in the neck, constipation, mood shifts, fluid retentions, and sudden food cravings are indications of an episode. However, a migraine may occur without warning and is called hemiplegic migraine. The sudden onset of a migraine can be a sign of a stroke or an aneurysm, requiring medical attention.

Convulsions
Though very rare, migraine with aura may trigger a seizure and usually develops within an hour of the onset of a migraine. If the convulsions last more than two minutes, or if the person loses consciousness, they need immediate help.

Weakness on one side
While a person may feel fatigued one or two days before the onset of a migraine, some may experience weakness in one side of the body or find it difficult to move during and after a migraine episode. The weakness can also be part of aura symptoms and usually lasts 20 minutes to one hour. The weakness disappears on its own. If one notices the weakness lasting longer, it can indicate hemiplegic migraine. This symptom, if left untreated, can lead to disability, stroke, or paralysis.

Triggers and common symptoms
Some common migraine triggers are exposure to flickering or bright lights for a long time, exposure to chemicals, hunger, or overexertion. Hormonal changes can also trigger migraine episodes in women.  Some of the common symptoms of migraine include throbbing or pulsating pain in one side or the whole head, nausea, vomiting, constipation, sensitivity to light and sound, blurry vision, changes in vision, irritability, loss of appetite, and scalp tenderness. In rare cases, one may experience migraine symptoms like fever, diarrhea, weakness, numbness, and inability to move.

Migraine is characterized by moderate or severe pain and a throbbing or pulsating sensation in one side of the head. Nausea and sensitivity to sound and light are also symptoms of migraine. An episode of migraine can last from four hours to three days. Research has revealed that abnormal brain activity triggers nerve signals and the chemicals in the brain, causing debilitating pain. One may feel depressed, angry, fatigued, anxious, or scared during and after an attack. If one is prone to frequent headaches, they should strictly follow the doctor’s prescription and resort to home or natural remedies until the worst is over. Migraines, unlike regular headaches, are generally unpredictable and may aggravate over time or develop suddenly without any warning.

Seeking treatment
Considering the type of symptoms that a person experiences during an episode, they may find it difficult to visit a doctor in person. Most doctors and hospitals provide telehealth or online consulting services, making it comfortable for patients to talk to doctors from the comfort of their own. Neurologists usually request migraine patients maintain a journal to record all relevant observations before, during, and after an episode. One can follow this tip and seek a migraine prescription online by sharing the following details with the doctor: 

• Describe the pain, its intensity, and the location
• Tell them about the last episode and the gap between the two
• List possible triggers that may have caused the migraine episode.
• Ascertain if one requires further tests.
• Ask for the different treatment options and discuss with the doctor what would be suitable
• Check if there is something one can do to prevent another episode
• Ask the doctor if alternative treatments can help
• Get an online prescription for a migraine
• Get follow-up details

After the discussion, the neurologist can offer a diagnosis and tips for dealing with the pain. They will also ask the patient more about their symptoms to rule out other conditions causing the headache. They will then offer a comprehensive treatment plan and an online migraine prescription. Doctors may prescribe treatments both to find relief during the migraine episode and also to prevent future episodes. One can also request the doctor to send an online migraine prescription to a pharmacy nearby so that they can deliver it home. Getting relief for migraines online is possible today, increasing the convenience of quickly treating intense pain. This also saves one the trouble of stepping out and being exposed to harsh light and sound.