Tips and Tricks to Start a DIY Auto Repair Project

Menstrual cramps are painful sensations that occur before or during a woman’s period. The intensity of such pain can vary among women, causing little discomfort to some while making it excruciating for a few others. The pain in the lower abdomen can be throbs, cramps, and spasms, while it could be a constant dull pain for some. Keep reading to learn more about the causes of menstrual pain and foods to eat to manage them.

Causes of period pain

Uterine contractions
Uterine contractions are the contraction and expansion of the uterine muscle, which happens during the menstrual cycle. Contractions also happen during other times, but most women are unaware of or feel it except during their period and childbirth.

Chemicals and hormonal changes in the uterus
During periods when the muscular wall contracts, it compresses the blood vessels in the uterus lining and cuts off the blood and oxygen supply to the womb. The womb tissues release chemicals to trigger pain. Our body also produces prostaglandins, a chemical that makes the womb muscles contract more, resulting in further pain. Excessive buildup of prostaglandins could lead to stronger contractions and severe pain. The prostaglandins can also cause headaches, diarrhea, and nausea during periods. Too much estrogen can cause the uterine lining to become thick. During a menstrual cycle, the lining breaks down, releasing more prostaglandins and increasing pain.

Underlying conditions
Certain underlying health conditions can also cause period pain for older women. They include-

• Endometriosis – Cells similar to the uterine lining grow outside the uterus.
• Fibroids – They are abnormal growths appearing in the uterine wall that cause severe pain and bleeding during a menstrual cycle.
• Pelvic inflammatory diseases – Infections that affect the upper reproductive organs, namely the uterus and fallopian tubes.
• Adenomyosis – A condition where the endometrial tissue begins to grow in the uterine muscle wall and starts thickening. It can result in an enlarged uterus. When the uterine lining breaks down during the menstrual cycle, it results in excessive bleeding and pain.

Treatment for period pain
Women who experience period pain may have irregular periods, heavy bleeding, lower back pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, and pain during intercourse. For women who have started getting their periods, the pain may be there for the first few cycles and will disappear slowly. Period pain may begin a few days before the menstrual cycle and last 2 or 3 days. Some women may experience pain till their menstrual cycle is complete.

Treatment for severe period pain
If the period pain is severe and you notice too heavy or too little bleeding, consult a doctor. They may conduct a pelvic examination to check for any abnormalities. They may also suggest oral prescriptions that can reduce the amount of prostaglandin in the womb. If you are uncomfortable with such prescriptions, they may also recommend alternative options like intrauterine devices to help with period pain.

Treatment for mild period pain
One can use prescription treatments that help relieve pain to manage menstrual cramps. However, always check with a health expert regarding the right dosage. Resting, a warm bath, a compress, breathing exercises, stretching, yoga, and light massage can help relieve mild pain. Eating the right, healthy food before and during the menstrual cycle can also help reduce pain.

Ten foods to manage period pain
During their periods, women might have to deal with losing their appetite, food cravings, nausea, headache, vomiting, etc. Some foods, however, can help prevent inflammation and reduce estrogen levels. One can also eat foods that help reduce water retention and to manage mood swings. Some healthy food choices for dealing with period pain are listed below.

Salmon and cold-water fish
Salmon and generally cold-water fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They have excellent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce period pain and discomfort.

Eggs
Besides being a super source of protein, eggs are rich in vitamins B6, D, and E, all of which can help fight premenstrual syndrome and pain. However, avoid eggs if you are prone to heartburn and bloating, as eggs can cause gas during periods and add to your pain.

Ginger
Ginger has both pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Add ground or grated ginger to your gravies, salads, or other dishes. Brew a pot of ginger tea and sip a few mouthfuls throughout the day; it can reduce pain and gas and help you find instant relief.

Leafy green vegetables
Both cruciferous and leafy green vegetables are rich in magnesium and calcium, which are beneficial in managing period pain. One can include vegetables like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard in one’s daily meals.

Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is high in magnesium, which can help relax the uterine muscle walls. They also contain endorphins which help women relax and help them fight mood swings.

Watermelon
Hormonal changes before and during periods can lead to dehydration. Water-rich food like watermelon or cucumbers can prevent dehydration and excess thirst.

Pineapples
The enzyme bromelain found in pineapple helps uterine muscles relax. The fruit’s anti-inflammatory properties help in reducing period-related pain. Pineapples can help by relieving the dull pain one may experience throughout the menstrual cycle.

Yogurt
Yogurt is rich in calcium and can control pain and bloating, which are expected during periods. If you experience digestion problems during your period, dilute yogurt with water and whisk it until it mixes well. Make a jar of buttermilk and have a cup throughout the day. Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics that helps people overcome bloating and diarrhea associated with periods.

Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains minerals like magnesium and zinc and is a rich source of fiber and antioxidants. A bowl of oatmeal can help relax the blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and relieve period pain. Magnesium also has pain-relieving properties, while zinc can help reduce inflammation.

Peanut butter
Peanut butter is a favorite food for everyone. Keep a jar of unsalted low-fat peanut butter in your pantry to help you manage period pain. It is rich in magnesium and can help fight period pain. It can also prevent bloating that is normal during the menstrual cycle.

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.

Transforming your backyard can be an exciting project. You could create a hangout spot, install sculptures, or even add a garden. However, adding plants to a backyard can require considerable time and effort. If you are taking up gardening for the first time, you do not want to miss key steps that affect the look of the space. So, to help you get started, here are a few gardening mistakes and how to avoid them:

Planting excessively
You may spend immense amounts of time scrolling through seed catalogs and looking forward to fresh vegetables and sometimes can end up planting too much. A big garden may require a lot of effort and can become overwhelming. So, if you have just taken up gardening, start small. First, shortlist your five favorite vegetables and herbs, and grow them. As you have some success with these plants, introduce new seeds to the space to gradually expand the garden space.

Planting too early
Seeds require an optimum temperature to sprout and grow. If some seeds thrive in warmer temperatures, the yield may freeze and die if you try to grow them in spring. The seed may also rot without sprouting. So, you must check what climates are suitable for each type before spreading them across the garden. One of the best ways to avoid planting earlier than required is to buy a good soil thermometer and note the usual first and last frost dates in your area to avoid this period for starting a garden.

Overlooking the soil type
Another mistake to avoid is planting seeds without checking whether the soil is loamy. If your backyard does not have loamy soil—rich in silt, clay, sand, and organic matter—the seeds will get sufficient nourishment, and the saplings may grow weak and perish quickly. So, before you start a garden, ensure you amend the soil to make it ideal for plant growth. For instance, clay-heavy soil may need additional sand and organic matter to reduce compaction. A sandy composition may require well-rotted manure or compost to improve moisture retention and nutrients.

Adding too much nitrogen
Plants require nitrogen to produce chlorophyll. However, avoid adding too much of this gas to the soil, as it may make the yield leggy and leafy. The additional foliage may affect the roots and prevent them from growing and spreading at a normal rate. This may lead to the plants producing little or no fruit and becoming susceptible to damage from insects and diseases. Further, the introduction of excess nitrogen may trigger a spike in mineral salts, which could make the plants look sunburned. So, if you have just started tilling the soil for your garden, ensure that you add nitrogen based on the plant’s requirements. You can speak to an expert or contact a nursery about how much nitrogen to introduce to the soil for a particular variety of seeds.

Underwatering the soil
Planting seeds and fertilizing the soil are the first steps in building a garden. You also need to water the patch regularly to ensure the seeds sprout and grow well. Failing to water the garden, especially in hotter temperatures, can lead to the plants not getting enough nourishment. One way to check whether the garden needs to be watered is the finger test. If the garden is loamy, stick your finger 2 inches into the soil; if it feels moist, it does not need to be watered. For sandy soil, follow the same princess but go two inches lower. With clay, if the fingers cannot easily move 2 inches into the soil, it may require water.

Overwatering the soil
Adding too much water to the soil can also affect the growth of plants. The excess water could end up waterlogging the roots, which may prevent them from getting sufficient oxygen. If you see plants starting to wilt, it could be a sign of overwatering. Further, many plant types may wilt in the daytime and revive when the temperature gets cooler in the evening; here, you do not need to water them. One of the best ways to avoid overwatering and improve root growth is by watering deeply but less often.

Choosing the wrong type of plants
While certain types of plants may look good or bear fruits that you enjoy, they may not thrive in your region. So, before you choose seeds for your garden, you should consider a few factors:

– Check the hardiness zones so that you can plant seeds that thrive in your area.
– Plants that require lots of moisture may not grow well in areas prone to droughts. Further, plants that do not require lots of water may not thrive in a region where it rains regularly.
– Seeds that have a long maturation date may not grow and produce well where the shorter gardening seasons.

Not hiring a professional
Another error you could make is not hiring a professional to help you with your gardening needs. As it is your first time trying to create a garden, seeking the advice of an expert or hiring one to do the job could help you learn about the process. Further, it is essential to look for reliable gardening contractors in your area, as they would be well-versed in aspects like soil requirements, climate, and types of plants that could grow in that region. Top providers, like TruGreen, earlier known as ChemLawn, offer services in most states, so you can find a professional near you. The company offers services such as root zone fertilization, insect and mite control, and disease control. TruGreen also provides handy services, like fertilization and weed control, through its lawn care packages. The company also has expertise in mosquito control and prevention to help you enjoy spending time in your backyard in the summer. You can explore everything there is to know about the brand and look for quotes on its official website.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), also known as wet AMD, is a condition that causes vision loss in the center of the retina. The disease can be caused by high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and other factors. Age-related macular degeneration does not affect a person’s eyesight overnight but progresses over time. However, diagnosing it early is essential for keeping one’s baseline vision intact. This article debunks 10 common myths about the condition. Read on to know more.

Dry AMD is easier to treat than Wet AMD
Patients with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can see improvement within just one month after starting a new treatment plan. Many people think dry AMD is more difficult to treat than wet AMD, but the opposite is true. While both forms of the disease can cause vision loss and blindness if left untreated, dry AMD does not require surgery or prescription treatment as frequently as it does for those with wet AMD.

One will know right away if they have AMD
The truth is that most patients with AMD do not know they have it. Generally, at the initial stages, it creates only minor vision changes or shows no symptoms at all. It is only at a later stage, when the vision starts getting worse, does a person realize that something is wrong with their eyesight. For this reason, it is suggested that one must get their eyes checked regularly to keep their health in check. 

Nothing can be done to prevent the progression of AMD
Many believe that there is nothing that can be done to manage AMD. However, this is not true. Making a few changes in the meal plans and regularly consulting with a doctor can help prolong a person’s vision. It is best to consume more leafy vegetables and oily fish for the extra nutrients required for good eyesight. 

If a person has a family history of wet AMD, they will get it too
Family history does not guarantee that a person will get AMD. There are several factors, such as advancing age, genes, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure, that are responsible for AMD development.

All AMD progresses at the same rate
While it is true that AMD progresses at the same rate for most people, there are exceptions. The rate of progression varies from person to person and can be accelerated or slowed by factors like meal plans or genetics. AMD is not a disease that progresses linearly; it is more like an onion with layers of complications, each layer adding to a person’s symptoms as they age. At the core of this, onion is those two leading causes: age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affects dry eyes and cataracts, as well as wet AMD (wet AMD being more common among those over 60 years old), which causes blood vessels in the eye to leak fluid into them (known as clouding).

Consuming carrots can improve vision
Carrots are one of the most popular foods in the world. They are suitable for everyone and taste delicious, but no evidence eating carrots can improve a person’s vision. Carrots contain beta-carotene, which helps prevent macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Besides carrots, consuming foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E is important. Good nutrition helps protect the eyes from developing drusen, a debris buildup in the innermost layer of the eyes that contribute to AMD. Good nutrition can promote good eye health; however, it is not a cure for AMD or cataracts. 

Dry and wet AMD are entirely different diseases
The most common type of macular degeneration is dry AMD, which is caused by age-related changes in the macula. As a person ages, the retina—the layer behind the eye—becomes more fragile and atrophies. This causes damage to photoreceptors (cells that convert light into electrical impulses), leading to loss of vision. Wet AMD occurs when fluid builds up in or between layers of tissue around blood vessels or nerve fibers in or near the retina. Wet AMD often begins as early as midlife but can develop later in life if it progresses slowly enough for a person not to notice any changes until it is too late.

Young people will not get AMD
You may have heard that AMD is a disease that only affects older people and that young people do not get it. This is not true. Most cases of AMD are diagnosed in adults over 60 years old. However, it is not just older people at risk for developing this condition—anyone can get it at any age. 

Reading in a dimly lit atmosphere will damage the eyes
You may have heard that reading in dim light will damage the eyes. This is absolutely not true. Reading in dim light has nothing to do with age-related macular degeneration. Reading in a dimly lit area can put more stress on a person’s eyes and make the reading experience less enjoyable. Other than this, it does not cause any other harm to a person’s eyes. It is perfectly safe to read in dim light as long as a person is able to read a book or a magazine comfortably.

People with AMD will eventually go blind
Many people give up thinking that any amount of medical treatment will not stop the progress of their AMD condition and that they will eventually go blind. Many rumors lead people to not even go for a checkup or treatment from a certified doctor. Before the advent of advanced medical methods, some people with AMD who gave up hope did indeed go blind. However, many advancements in the ophthalmology field have led to many people being treated properly. 

While there are no easy answers, knowing what risks a person may face as they age and how to protect oneself from the risks is crucial. If you or someone you might know has been diagnosed with AMD, make sure they see an eye doctor who can diagnose and treat this condition. We hope this post helped debunk some common myths around AMD.

Today, improved technology has made dental implant surgeries easier and relatively painless. However, it is natural to be a little anxious before any such procedure. To clear your mind beforehand, you can consult your dentist and discuss your queries. Always disclose your complete oral history to the dentist so they know what to be prepared for. In addition, you must know how you can prepare for dental implant surgery, especially if it’s your first time.

What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium screw-shaped artificial tooth roots. They replace the natural root of a missing tooth. The implants must be placed in the jawbone, so minor oral surgery is required to attach them correctly.

Getting dental implants requires a progressive series of appointments. This includes consultation, placement of implants, and placement of crowns. Once the surgery is over, the dentist may also schedule follow up appointments.

A dental implant replaces one or more permanent teeth lost due to an injury, gum disease, tooth decay, or infection. During your initial meeting with your dentist, they may discuss different options for replacing your teeth. Dentures and bridges are examples of these alternatives.

Dental implants – Procedure, preparation, and tips
Before you proceed with a dental implant operation, consider the following tips.

Choose a date for a dental exam
A visual inspection of your mouth, x-rays, and a review of your health records may be part of your dental examination. With this information, your dentist will create a dental implant process plan, taking unique factors into account, like the cause of the missing tooth, oral health, any possible allergies, and so on, based on your health.

They will go over their plan with you so that you know what to expect at each stage. This is a good time to inquire about the procedure’s date, expense, and the number of sessions needed.

Follow what the dentist prescribes
Before the procedure, confirm which supplements would be safe. A study suggests stopping the intake of vitamin C, aspirin, and omega-3 fish oils at least one week before surgery.

Dentists may prescribe remedies if you are dealing with any chronic illness or other issues. Any prescribed antibiotics will function as a substitute immune system, preventing early implant failure. Additionally, you will be asked to rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash to keep germs away from the operated area.

Prepare your jaw for bone grafting
A bone graft (replacing bone tissue of the natural tooth) may be required to support an implant if your jawbone is soft or if a tooth has been missing for a considerable period of time. It reconstructs the damaged area of your jawbone to provide added strength. Thus, avoid eating anything hard food that may hurt or injure your jawbone before the surgery. A well-rested jawbone is what will help you during as well as after the procedure.

Prepare healthy and light meals
A nutritious meal plan promotes healing after surgery and provides your body with the resources it requires to support dental implants. In the weeks coming up to your surgery, consume plenty of fruits, whole grains, and veggies. Additionally, before undergoing surgery, you should purchase or prepare soft foods such as smoothies, noodles, and soups. For a few days after the procedure, your sore gums will not be able to bite into or chew hard foods.

Extracting juice from fruits and veggies is one of the ways to reap their advantages. Nutritional shakes can also meet your body’s food needs during this time. However, you must avoid eating anything spicy or acidic because it may irritate the gums and act as a bacterial magnet.

Make proper preparations
Ensure you get enough rest on the night before surgery. While some patients can return to work within three days of the surgery, observing caution and avoiding vigorous schedules is advisable. Avoid major or stressful events for at least a week after the implant operation. In certain situations, your dentist may also suggest a diet to be followed in terms of hot/cold foods.

Ensure oral hygiene
You must maintain good oral hygiene to ensure an effective dental implant surgery. Instead of brushing your teeth vigorously, be gentle. Use a super-soft toothbrush easily available in departmental stores. Regular flossing and mouthwash after each meal also help to keep your mouth clean, and protect you against infections/cavities. It is imperative to consult your dentist and opt for a long-lasting mouthwash that keeps your mouth fresh and clean.

Get sufficient rest
Sufficient sleep is essential for overall health as it boosts productivity, concentration, and fitness, but it’s especially critical before surgery. In the week preceding your dental implant treatment, get at least eight hours of sleep per night. If it is pertinent to your particular operation, ask your dentist if there are certain sleeping positions they advise to avoid putting pressure on your mouth before or after the surgery.

Immediate aftercare suggestions
Following your dental implants, you may most likely feel slight pain or swelling. However, this is quite common and not something to worry about. When your surgery is over, you should:

Nibble on the sponges placed in your mouth to halt the bleeding.
Avoid excessive movement and keep your head elevated during the first 8 to 12 hours after the operation.
Place an ice pack on your face for 15 minutes when necessary.
Only consume soft meals and beverages for the first 24 hours.
Take prescription treatments strictly as directed by your doctor.
For the first 24 hours, avoid using mouthwash.

In conclusion
Good dental hygiene plays a significant role in ensuring mental and physiological well-being. What you eat has a direct impact on your health, mood, and daily productivity. Dental implants can help to replace your missing teeth, restoring a natural smile, ease of interaction, and convenience in eating what you love! Preparing for a dental implant procedure is not difficult; you must follow your dentist’s post-surgery care steps. You should select a reputable and effective dental clinic that can meet your individual needs and expectations.