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7 signs of unhealthy skin that need attention

7 signs of unhealthy skin that need attention

Skin is the largest organ of the human body and often also the one that is easily ignored. It is one of the telltale organs which show signs and symptoms of how a person’s body is doing internally – if it is healthy or unhealthy. Many internal and external factors contribute to the skin’s health and here are some signs that indicate one’s skin might need some love, care, and attention.

Dry and flaky skin
This happens when there is not enough moisture retention in the skin. There can be many factors that cause dryness, including using harsh face and body cleansers, excessive bathing and exfoliation, and extreme weather conditions like too hot or too cold temperatures. Moreover, other underlying conditions like eczema or psoriasis could be responsible for the dry and flaky skin symptoms. It is important to moisturize regularly and drink enough water to stay hydrated. If one lives in an extremely dry environment, then investing in a humidifier is recommended to avoid further skin issues.

Acne breakouts
This is a prevalent condition that leads to the formation of other issues like blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. When there is excess sebum production, then it leads to clogging of pores and the formation of bacteria. There could also be some hormonal imbalance issues that can lead to acne breakouts. It is important to follow a good skincare ritual on a daily basis to help control the condition. One must speak to a dermatologist to understand the skin’s needs and use the right products to manage the condition.

Redness and irritation
When the skin is sensitive or inflamed, it can lead to redness and irritation. However, there can be some other contributors like environmental factors, allergies, harsh chemical products, or even conditions like rosacea that can lead to such symptoms. Many dermatologists suggest using gentle products that do not have any fragrance and also recommend using sunscreen on a daily basis to avoid any damage from sun exposure. It is important to understand one’s skin type and use products accordingly.

Uneven skin tone
Commonly known as hyperpigmentation, this is one of the most common signs of unhealthy skin. It happens due to the overproduction of melanin, which is a natural pigment that forms in the body and is responsible for skin color. There are some reasons why uneven skin tone affects certain people and that could include certain injuries, hormonal changes, acne scars, or even long and frequent sun exposure. There are some professional treatments available to help with this discoloration, but one must always use sunscreen on a daily basis and also wear long-sleeved clothing when exposed to the sun to avoid sunburn.

Rash or hives
There can be several reasons why one’s skin may break out in a rash or hives, including anxiety. It is always important to speak to a dermatologist to understand why this happens and what could be the possible management tips for the condition. There can be times when one’s skin comes in contact with an allergic substance, it could be a plant or a product, and their skin responds to it by breaking out in a rash; this is the body’s way of warning one to stay away from the allergen. However, sometimes rashes are a symptom of diseases like Lyme disease, so it is essential to consult with a dermatologist and get a proper diagnosis in case this happens frequently.

Excessive oiliness
The natural oil that is produced in the skin is absolutely essential for keeping it moisturized and healthy. However, an excessive amount of oil production can lead to oiliness that can create complications. This can contribute to clogged pores, greasy appearance, and also acne breakouts. Using gentle face and body washes and exfoliating regularly are recommended to balance out the oil production. Some people experience excess oil production on the scalp as well, and this leads to the need to shampoo more often than usual.

Loss of elasticity
Losing elasticity is normal as one grows old, but if one sees an unusual increase in loss of elasticity and sagginess, then it is time to visit the dermatologist to understand the underlying issue. Age is a contributing factor in this condition; however, there are other factors that can be controlled like sun exposure, food habits, and lifestyle choices. Regular exercise and nutritious meals are important in keeping the elasticity of the skin intact, so one must speak to a doctor to understand what measures can be taken to prevent this sign of unhealthy skin.

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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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7 warning signs of bone cancer to be aware of

Bone cancer is a rare but serious condition that primarily affects an individual’s pelvis and long bones in the arms or legs. Timely detection and treatment are crucial to manage the symptoms effectively. Here are some of the highly common warning signs associated with bone cancer as well as some of its causes and treatment options. This can help individuals recognize symptoms and take proactive measures in addressing this condition. What is bone cancer? Bone cancer, or bone sarcoma, is an uncommon type of cancer that makes up less than one percent of all cancer cases. It occurs once malignant cells start to grow in the bones and form a tumor. Bone cancer can be of various forms. Osteosarcoma, which is highly prevalent in children and young adults. Here, the cancerous cells grow or produce excess bone cells. Chondrosarcoma is another type of cancer where the cancerous cells begin to produce cartilage. It usually affects middle-aged and older adults. Ewing sarcoma tumors primarily affect the pelvis, legs and arms of children and young adults. Warning signs of bone cancer Pain In the initial stage, one may experience pain in the area where the cancer is developing. This is the most common sign and may also be associated with swelling in the area. Usually, in bone cancer, the pain may persist for a long time, or get worse with any physical activity. It may not show signs of improvement despite some popular home remedies. In children, bone sarcomas often show up near the knees. At times, parents may mistake the pain for a typical ache associated during a child’s growth stage, so the diagnosis can take longer. Limited range of motion In cases where a bone with a tumor breaks or fractures, particularly in the leg, it can result in a noticeable limp. Limping is typically observed in later stages of bone sarcoma and can be a serious symptom of the disease. Weakened bones Bone cancer weakens the affected bone, making it more susceptible to fractures. Fractures may occur even with minimal trauma or stress, and sometimes, a fracture is the first indication of an underlying bone tumor. Joint swelling, lumps, and stiffness When a tumor forms near or within a joint, it can cause swelling and stiffness. This leads to tenderness and limited range of motion in the affected joint. Individuals may experience discomfort and pain while attempting to move the joint, indicating a potential presence of bone sarcoma. General malaise or fatigue One may also experience a vague feeling of discomfort or unease without any specific symptoms or identifiable cause. It is often described as a sense of overall fatigue, weakness, or a lack of well-being. Individuals suffering from this symptom may find it difficult to identify the exact cause of their discomfort. Unexplained loss of body mass Cancer cells take up a significant amount of energy and nutrients from the body, which can affect one’s body mass without any changes in one’s appetite. This concerning sign may indicate any other underlying health issue, but if it is accompanied by above-mentioned symptoms, one should get an accurate diagnosis. Anemia Bone cancer is also characterized by a reduced number of red blood cells. This, in turn, can lead to one feeling anemic. Further, as cancer progresses, it can make the affected bone break down, which releases calcium into the bloodstream. Over time, the calcium buildup in the bloodstream affects various processes, including digestion, causing issues like constipation, bloating, vomiting, and nausea. Causes of bone cancer Although the exact causes of bone cancer are still not entirely known, it is thought that they are inherited. However, researchers have linked an increased chance of acquiring the condition to a few factors. Rare inherited genetic diseases like Li-Fraumeni syndrome are among these contributing causes. A higher chance of getting bone cancer later in life has also been associated with Paget's disease of the bone, which is more frequently diagnosed in older persons. Additionally, radiation exposure during cancer treatment, like radiation therapy, may increase the chance of developing bone cancer in the future. Diagnosis and treatment options Imaging tests are important in identifying the location, size, and potential spread of bone tumors. The specific tests, such as bone scan, CT scan, MRI, PET scan, and X-ray, are chosen based on individual signs and symptoms, and they help in getting an accurate diagnosis and in treatment planning. If bone cancer is detected, a healthcare professional will consider the tumor size, its growth, and whether other areas are affected to suggest a treatment plan. This plan can include surgeries to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy to kill the cancer cells using high energy beams.

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Everything you need to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
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What you should know about depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
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Important things you should know about diabetes

The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
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Gout – Diagnosis, stages, and prevention

Gout or gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis that commonly occurs in the joint located at the base of one’s big toe. It can also be seen in other joints and results in swelling, sudden pain, and tenderness. It can happen to anyone and occur at any moment, even suddenly in the middle of the night. The good news is that it can be prevented and treated. Diagnosis of gout Multiple medical tests can be used to determine if one has this form of arthritis. Below is a list of the most common tests. Joint fluid test The doctor uses a needle to collect fluid from one’s joint and test the same under a microscope. If urate crystals are found in the fluid then they have the condition. Blood test For gout detection, the doctor may suggest a blood test. The amount of creatinine and uric acid present in one’s blood indicates if they have it or not. However, the result of the blood test may not always be conclusive. X-ray imaging If one has joint inflammation, the doctor can use X-ray imaging to determine if it is caused by any other reason or gouty arthritis. Ultrasound A musculoskeletal ultrasound test is used to determine if one has gout or any other form of arthritis.

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