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Avoid These 7 Things for Healthy Skin

Avoid These 7 Things for Healthy Skin

Maintaining skin health requires considerable care, especially if one is affected by conditions like eczema. Recognizing things to avoid when it comes to skincare can be just as important as knowing which products to use. If certain products or foods cause acne or dry skin, they could be key triggers to avoid. So here are a few things one should avoid to get healthy skin and prevent various skin issues and conditions:

What is healthy skin?
Skin is the body’s outermost layer, protecting one from environmental factors like temperature changes, toxins, and bacteria. Healthy skin helps prevent diseases like eczema, acne, psoriasis, and other skin disorders. A blemish-free skin also helps one look and feel their best. One can do multiple things to keep their skin healthy. For instance, one should try using a tinted moisturizer sunscreen on their face. Moisturizers can keep the skin hydrated and protect it from harsh, dry environments. Sunscreen protects the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can trigger premature aging, wrinkles, and even skin cancer.

Things to avoid
Excessive sun exposure
When it comes to healthy skin, avoiding too much sun exposure is essential. Prolonged sun exposure without protection can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and other forms of skin damage. The best way to protect the skin from the sun is to wear sunscreen when stepping outside. Limiting time outdoors during peak sunlight hours is also a good idea. Whenever possible, one should seek shade and wear protective clothing and accessories such as wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeve shirts, and long pants. These steps can help keep the skin healthy and youthful for years to come.

Harsh soaps
If one has dry or sensitive skin, they should avoid using harsh soaps, as they can strip away the natural oils that keep the skin hydrated. Instead, one should choose gentle, sulfate-free cleansers or creamy, oil-based soaps that help lock in moisture. It is also essential to protect the skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays by applying a sunscreen moisturizer on the face with at least SPF 30. Applying moisturizer and sunscreen can help protect the skin from further damage. Lastly, one should moisturize their skin after every wash or shower to prevent dryness.

Hot showers or baths
Hot water may not be ideal for those with sensitive skin. Health experts recommend using lukewarm water instead to prevent skin irritation. Hot water can worsen skin problems and symptoms of eczema, so one should avoid taking extremely hot showers or baths.

Stress
Stress can increase the risk of the skin becoming dry, inflamed, and itchy. Stress can also cause breakouts, age spots, and wrinkles. Stress hormones such as cortisol can make the skin’s natural oils overactive and produce more sebum, causing acne. One should find ways to relax and manage stress levels to maintain healthy skin. Relaxation techniques like yoga or massages can help relieve stress. Getting enough sleep, making better food choices, exercising regularly, and taking breaks throughout the day are also key measures to reducing stress.

Poor food choices
Processed foods high in sugar, salt, and saturated fats increase inflammation, reduce collagen production, and exacerbate existing skin conditions. So, one should opt for a balanced food regimen with lots of fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins, as this is the best way to keep the skin looking and feeling its best. One should avoid fried foods, refined carbohydrates, and processed meats as much as possible. Eliminating or limiting these foods can help relieve skin irritation and inflammation. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can also keep the skin hydrated. Skin that is adequately hydrated has fewer wrinkles and looks smoother. Additionally, one should monitor portion sizes. Large and heavy meals can also cause breakouts. Eating smaller meals frequently throughout the day will give the body the nutrition it needs without increasing the risk of skin issues.

Excessive exfoliation
Exfoliation is a great way to remove dead skin cells, clean pores, and get healthy skin. However, excessive exfoliation can do more harm than good. It can cause dryness, redness, and irritation, leading to inflammation and skin damage. Exfoliating too often can strip away essential oils, leaving the skin unprotected. The most effective way to exfoliate is by using gentle products that contain natural ingredients such as sugar or oatmeal. One should also limit exfoliating to just once a week. If one has sensitive skin, they can start by exfoliating every two weeks. Also, one should avoid scrubbing too hard, which can cause irritation and redness.

Over-treating the skin
Over-treating the skin can cause more harm than good. Too many products and treatments can strip away the natural oils in the skin, leaving it dry and irritated. It can also lead to breakouts. Over-treating includes using too many harsh skin care products and over-exfoliating. When it comes to healthy skin care, less is often more. One should opt for a simple routine consisting a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. One should avoid scrubbing the skin too hard or using products that contain harsh chemicals in excessive amounts. Moisturizing the skin is a great way to keep it hydrated and healthy. One can use a heavier moisturizer at night. But, it is important to adopt a simple skincare routine and mild products.

When dealing with skin conditions like eczema, one may have to seek guidance from a dermatologist or doctor to understand treatment options for the condition as well as determine eczema causes. One could develop eczema in childhood or in their teens. But what are the main causes of eczema? An overactive immune system that reacts too quickly when exposed to certain irritants can result in skin inflammation, causing eczema. This inflammation leads to itchiness and dryness in the affected areas. Identifying the causes of eczema can help prevent flare-ups. Additionally, anti-inflammatory creams or ointments can help soothe eczema symptoms. Further, certain hormonal IUDs can cause acne. So, when dealing with persistent breakouts and blemishes, they should consult a doctor to determine the cause.

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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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5 Most Common Digestive Disorders

Digestive disorders or gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are a group of conditions that affect the digestive system. These conditions can cause various symptoms, from abdominal pain and nausea to bloating and difficulty swallowing. This article lists five common digestive conditions, their associated symptoms, and the possible treatment options and remedies to help better manage those symptoms. One should consult a doctor for a confirmed diagnosis if they think they might have these disorders. Heartburn Heartburn is a common digestive condition that causes a burning sensation in the chest, which can be pretty uncomfortable. The burning sensation is typically felt after eating or when lying down and is often accompanied by a bitter or sour taste in the back of the throat. In some cases, the burning sensation that begins in the chest can travel up to the neck and throat. Heartburn can result from several factors, including a poor nutrition plan, lifestyle habits, and other underlying health conditions. Treatment for heartburn can vary depending on the cause and severity. Several treatments are easily available on the market to help reduce symptoms, but it is best to speak with a doctor before using them. In addition to treatments, doctors may recommend lifestyle changes to manage heartburn, such as avoiding certain foods and including fiber-rich options in the meal plan. GERD Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly referred to as GERD, is a chronic or more persistent form of acid reflux. Acid reflux is a digestive disorder in which stomach acids travel into the esophagus or food pipe. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which separates the esophagus from the stomach, does not close properly and allows the stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. The symptoms of GERD include heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, a chronic dry cough, a sour taste in the mouth, and wheezing or feeling like something is stuck in the throat. Since GERD is a chronic condition, lifestyle changes are essential for managing the symptoms in the long term. However, lifestyle modifications and home remedies may not always be effective. So, the doctor might recommend a surgical procedure for patients who do not respond to traditional treatments. If a person experiences acid reflux, it is crucial to visit a doctor and take steps to prevent it from aggravating and leading to GERD. Peptic ulcers A peptic ulcer is a sore or lesion in the lining of the stomach or small intestine caused by a bacterial infection or long-term use of specific treatments. This condition can cause severe bloating, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and dark or bloody stools. It can also cause severe stomach pain, which becomes all the more unbearable when the stomach is empty. If left untreated, peptic ulcers can lead to internal bleeding and even gastric cancer, so it is essential to visit a doctor as soon as possible after experiencing these symptoms. Peptic ulcers can be treated with doctor-recommended treatments and lifestyle changes. Experts recommend that patients eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day instead of fewer large ones and avoid fatty and spicy foods that can produce excess stomach acids. However, these remedies work best in minor cases of peptic ulcers. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove any part of the digestive tract affected by an ulcer. Irritable bowel syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common digestive condition that affects the large intestine or colon. Its symptoms include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. IBS's exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be linked to stress, unhealthy food choices, and hormonal changes, among other factors. People suffering from the condition may experience aggravated symptoms due to these triggers. The treatment options for IBS include lifestyle modifications, such as healthy food habits, stress management, exercise, and drinking plenty of water. Doctors may also recommend treatments to manage the discomforts like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis Ulcerative colitis is a digestive disorder that causes chronic inflammation in the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the colon and rectum. The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), rectal bleeding, fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, and night sweats. These signs tend to come and go. In other words, there are flares of severe symptoms alternating with periods of remission. The treatments used to manage ulcerative colitis can vary depending on the severity, but they generally include a combination of doctor-recommend treatment options and lifestyle changes. Following healthy food habits is also essential. Experts recommend eating low-fiber foods and avoiding dairy products and fatty meats. Further, patients may benefit from moderate physical activity; it can help improve overall health and reduce some symptoms associated with the condition. Surgery may sometimes be necessary to remove part of the damaged intestinal lining. Chron's disease is a digestive disorder similar to ulcerative colitis. However, unlike ulcerative colitis, it can cause inflammation anywhere in the digestive tract, not just the colon. Moreover, individuals with Crohn's disease usually have healthy areas in between inflamed spots. Living with a digestive condition can be difficult, both physically and emotionally. But there are ways to manage it and lead a fulfilling life. The first and most important thing is identifying the symptoms and visiting a doctor to make informed decisions about treatment and lifestyle changes. But it does not stop there. Patients should continue to visit the doctor to monitor their progress and discuss any changes experienced in their condition or if their current treatments stop working. This can help the expert develop a personalized treatment plan. Finally, one should remember that they are not alone. Talking to others with digestive conditions and supporting each other can make managing the situation easier.

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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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