6 clothing pieces that may affect one’s health

6 clothing pieces that may affect one’s health

On the surface, what one wears may seem like the most non-influential aspect of their health and wellness. However, clothing affects an individual internally and externally, mostly health-wise, in more ways than one. Certain outfits, such as comfortable, breathable ones made from bamboo, linen, silk, or cotton, are considered “healthy clothing.” On the other hand, certain clothes have been found to be detrimental to the wearer’s health. Here are some such clothes that affect health adversely:

Underwire bras
Underwire bras are convenient to use, but studies have found that they can have potentially long-term health risks, including cuts and punctures from the sharp-ish wires, skin problems, long-term headaches, blocked milk ducts for nursing mothers, neck pain, uneasiness in the chest, indigestion, and several other problems.

Some other health hazards posed by these types of bras include the metallic straps impeding the wearer’s blood flow and attracting undesirable electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs) to the breast areas, increasing the risk of radiation-based health issues like cancer in women over time.

Tight underwear for men
As is the case with tight bras for women, tight underwear can be problematic for men from a health perspective. Overly fitted underwear can drastically increase the temperature around a man’s testes, leading to eventual and permanent infertility and impotence. The area around the testes needs to stay at a cool and moderate temperature for optimal health. If that does not happen, then men can suffer from other problems apart from the ones mentioned here, too, like low sperm count and a perpetual sensation of pain in the lower abdomen and crotch area.

Tight underwear has also been linked with jock itch, a fungal health condition that causes bacteria infestation in the groin area and urinary tract infections in men. At the same time, women must also wear breathable underwear, as they may develop urinary tract infections.

Skinny jeans
Skinny jeans have been a trendy clothing garment for men and women alike for several decades. Their sleek look and tight-fitting attributes make them a hot favorite among buyers of all ages. However, skinny jeans are not very “healthy” to wear. Tight denim clothing compresses the body and can cause problems such as blood flow obstruction, swelling and numbness around the waist, and nerve damage if worn for a long time.

Several health cases over the years worldwide involve women and men suffering issues when they wear their skinny jeans for too long. For these reasons, one can switch to looser and more comfortable clothing rather than sticking to skin-tight denim that brings a plethora of health issues.

Last night’s pajamas
Before drifting off to sleep, most people slip into comfortable nightwear, such as pajamas. However, many of them also leave their pajamas on throughout the next day. In fact, there are many who may go an entire day, including working remotely, eating, and exercising, in the pajamas, a practice that can have long-term health consequences. One needs to change their nightwear just as frequently as their underwear when starting their new day.

Dirty, worn-out pajamas can lead to bacterial infestation near one’s urethra and other sensitive genital areas. As a result of that, people may develop infections and, if not treated on time, major urethral health issues. Due to these reasons, it is safe to discard a pair of pajamas worn overnight into the laundry basket the next morning. After they are cleaned for the day, one can safely wear their pajamas again.

Leggings
Leggings are the ultimate all-purpose outfit for women. However, leggings come with their own set of health issues, including fungal infections like ringworm, scaly patches on the skin, rashes, itchiness, and other problems. Any piece of clothing that sticks as closely to the skin as leggings (or, alternatively, control-top tights) rubs violently against one’s body throughout the day. A person moves their body in over a hundred ways, so this rubbing can be detrimental to their skin health over a period of time.

While there is no direct substitute for leggings, one should continue to try different garment pieces to see which one is the most comfortable and which sticks to the skin like leggings.

Colored undergarments for women
Women who select designer undergarments that come in extravagant colors may suffer health issues due to the heavy fabric dye used in these clothing pieces. Issues like vaginal infections, skin irritation, and rashes are common effects of such garments.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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Top 9 household items that are linked with cancer

The increasing number of people falling prey to cancer is rising, and ensuring that every home remains safe has become more important. Unbeknownst to many of us, numerous products we bring into our homes repeatedly contribute to the increased cancer risk. From everyday products found in kitchens to unsuspecting items in bathrooms and beyond, we can make changes that can create healthier environments and help prioritize our well-being. Let’s learn which household items to avoid. Cleaning products Most conventional cleaning products are being flagged for being harmful to health. They contain chemicals that make these products endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, and in some cases, respiratory irritants. Various ingredients, including ammonia, formaldehyde, and phthalates, have been researched to be associated with different types of cancer. To avoid the risk of the disease, adopting eco-friendly alternatives with natural compounds is suggested. You can also use kitchen ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon to make your cleaners at home. Personal care products We are constantly bombarded with a range of personal care products that pop up in the market every day. And this drives our curiosity to try and test various products that claim to have so many benefits. However, some personal care products like soaps, shampoos, deodorants, and others can contain harmful ingredients. These chemicals have been linked to hormone disruption and increased breast, prostate, and other cancer risk. Non-stick cookware Coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or Teflon, non-stick cookware can release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures. These fumes have been associated with respiratory problems and cancer in laboratory animals. Opt for safer alternatives like stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware to minimize exposure to these potentially harmful substances. Plastic containers Plastic is one of the most hazardous materials ever known. Certain plastic items contain chemicals like phthalates and bisphenol A that are labeled harmful to well-being. These chemicals can leach into food or beverages, especially when exposed to heat or acidic conditions. Instead, one must choose glass or stainless steel containers for food storage to reduce exposure and opt for BPA-free plastics. Air fresheners and scented candles Many air fresheners and scented candles contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates, which can contribute to indoor air pollution. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals has been linked to respiratory problems and increased cancer risk. Consider using natural alternatives like essential oils, beeswax candles, or simply opening windows to improve indoor air quality. Pesticides and herbicides Certain pesticides and herbicides used in gardening and pest control have been linked to cancer. The chemicals present in these products, such as glyphosate, have been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Consider using organic or natural alternatives for gardening, and if pesticide use is necessary, follow safety guidelines and precautions. Formaldehyde This particular compound has multiple ways of entering your home. It can be found in cleaning products, carpets, furniture made of pressed wood, insulation material, and more. It is a sneaky substance that you have to be on the lookout for constantly. It is one of the most significant contributors to household products that are linked with cancer. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can increase the risk of respiratory and nasopharyngeal cancers. To keep yourself safe from the side effects of formaldehyde, choose building materials, cleaning agents, and other items that have a low possibility of formaldehyde emission. Also, ensure your house is well-ventilated to avoid toxic buildup. Radon A naturally occurring compound, radon is a radioactive gas associated with increased cancer risk. While not usually a household item, it can easily seep into homes through cracks in the foundation. People exposed to radon over time have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. It is important to get your home and office tested for radon presence and to take necessary measures to mitigate its entry into your promises. Electromagnetic radiation While there is still some space for reliable research results to conclude, studies suggest a potential link between long-term exposure to electromagnetic radiation and cancer. These radiations are emitted around you by cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, and other electronic devices that put you and others at an increased risk of cancer. It is essential to minimize exposure to these radiations. An easy way of doing so is limiting cell phone use, using hands-free options, and keeping electronic devices away from your body during sleep.

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