Addictions have become an extremely serious global issue. From different kinds of substances to alcohol and nicotine, people can be addicted to a variety of vices. Being addicted to something is a disorder, which affects the behavior and brain. When the addiction increases, one loses control over his/her urge to use the substance, even if they know how bad it is for them. Understanding it better First, one needs to understand that addiction is a disease. It can start from consumption on an experimental basis, which leads to more intake use until the person cannot control the urge any longer. While some substances may take time to become addictive, a few can be riskier and turn a person into an addict immediately. Like most other diseases, addictions can be treated, but it requires more support from loved ones, and one needs to develop the willpower to quit. Symptoms of addiction Sometimes it can become quite difficult to identify if one is addicted to any substance. Avoiding the consumption of alcohol or any other substance is the best way to save oneself from addiction. However, if a person has started consuming any of these substances, they must look for the following symptoms to recognize if they have become addicted. Using daily or maybe even more than once in a day An intense need to use it and lacking focus on anything else If one requires to take more than before for the same effect Always keeping supply at hand Spending more money on it than affordable Hampers work or social commitments Effects on mental and physical health Starting to do take part in risky behaviors under the influence Starting to feel the physical symptoms of withdrawal when not using the substance Causes of addictions Various factors can influence addiction. The two most powerful influences are the environment and genetics.

For women trying to conceive or wondering if they may be pregnant, one of the first signs to watch out for is a missed menstrual cycle. Although several other symptoms can point to the possibility of a pregnancy, it’s always best to visit a doctor for confirmation. Read on to know the common symptoms of pregnancy: Missed period If a woman in childbearing years experiences a delay of over a week in her menstrual cycles, it may indicate pregnancy. That being said, missed or irregular cycles could also be a result of health issues like thyroid problems. So, women should also keep an eye out for the other symptoms mentioned here. Fatigue Being more tired than usual could be an early symptom of pregnancy. When a woman is pregnant, the progesterone levels in her body rise, which causes her to feel sleepy and tired. Frequent urination During pregnancy, the quantity of blood flowing in a woman’s body increases, causing the kidney to work overtime. This places extra pressure on the bladder and leads to more frequent urges to urinate. Nausea or morning sickness This may be accompanied with or without vomiting, and this pregnancy symptom is also known as morning sickness. Contrary to popular belief according to the name, it may occur at any time of the day. That being said, all women do not experience this symptom, so it should not be considered as the ultimate factor that indicates pregnancy. The cause of this symptom is unknown, but pregnancy hormones are considered to play a key role in its development. Swollen, tender breasts Pregnant women may experience sore and sensitive breasts. After a few weeks into the pregnancy, this discomfort reduces as the body gets accustomed to the hormonal changes, but this is a concrete sign of pregnancy. Nasal congestion This is a little-known sign of pregnancy and occurs due to soaring hormone levels and the production of blood that make the nose swell, dry out, and bleed.

From carpets and drapes to upholstered furniture and air ducts, everything in your home attracts dust and various other contaminants. Perhaps the best way to get rid of these contaminants is to call a professional cleaning service. If you’re looking for a reliable service provider, SERVPRO is an excellent option. With over 50 years of experience, they are the country’s leading residential and commercial restoration and cleaning service. This article looks at the various residential cleanup services offered by SERVPRO. Air ducts and HVAC Routine inspection and cleaning of the HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) units in your home can extend the equipment life and improve the quality of indoor air. Biohazard SERVPRO professionals are equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products to clean, remove biohazards and dispose them of properly. Carpet and upholstery cleaning They offer various specialized regular and deep cleaning methods for all types of carpets in homes. Ceiling, floors, and walls Ceilings and walls accumulate cooking oils and grease, cigarette smoke, and other contaminants over time. Getting them cleaned by professionals occasionally is a great idea. Drapes and blinds SERVPRO specializes in cleaning fine fabrics and intricate pieces. They offer five different cleaning methods for drapes and blinds. You can consult with their professional to select the most appropriate method. Odor removal Persistent odors within the indoor environment can damage your health. Professionals at SERVPRO can identify and eliminate odors using specialized equipment and techniques. Sewage and toilet overflow Toilet overflow or sewer backups should be considered an emergency. These waters are usually contaminated with harmful viruses, bacteria, and other microbes. Trauma and crime scene SERVPRO professionals follow OSHA and EPA to get rid of biohazard contaminants from blood, chemicals, or tear-gas residues following crime or accident scenes. Vandalism and graffiti It’s usually difficult to remove graffiti paint without expert help.

Palatable meals can help you stick to any diet plan. If you’re on the keto diet, you’ll be happy to hear that there are many tasty recipes you can whip up for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. But, if you are specifically looking for delicious keto dinner ideas, you’re in the right place. Herein, we’ve rounded up some of the best keto recipes that make for a satisfying supper. Keto butter chicken Perhaps the best thing about keto is that you’re encouraged to feast on food high in fats. So, don’t miss the opportunity to try the keto version of the spicy and famous Indian dish — butter chicken. Traditionally, butter chicken is made using ghee or clarified butter. Ghee tastes almost like butter but has a slightly roasted, nutty flavor, and offers more nutritional benefits. Creamy Tuscan garlic chicken Featuring heavy cream and parmesan cheese, there is nothing not to dislike in this Italian-inspired dish. The best part is that it’s easy to make and requires ingredients that you likely already have. First, you need to prepare a little spicy and creamy sauce that requires heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. Then add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and cooked chicken. That’s all! Pepperoni pizza with fathead crust Craving a pizza? Try this thin-crust fathead pizza tonight! Though low in carbs and keto-friendly, this recipe is delicious, and everyone in your family can enjoy it. The pizza dough is made from almond flour, but add some yeast for bread-like flavor. For pizza sauce or marinara sauce, make sure to choose no-sugar-added varieties. And, if you’re using mozzarella cheese for topping, shred it at home as the packaged one doesn’t melt well. Keto beef stew If you’re a fan of stew, here’s another delicious keto dinner idea you’ll love — a beef stew.

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease in which the initially flexible, round red blood cells become crescent moon- or sickle-shaped. As a result, blood flow through small vessels slows down or stops, leading to various symptoms. The only cure for sickle cell anemia is a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. However, recent studies have shown that certain herbs and their blend can also provide relief. Read on to learn more about the herbal management of sickle cell anemia. Niprisan herbal extract formula Nigeria has the highest number of sickle cell patients in the world. To help its citizens fight the disease, the Nigerian government’s National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) developed a herbal formula called Niprisan that has shown promising results. It is made with extracts from four different plants: Piper guineense seed: Also called the West African pepper or Guinea pepper Pterocarpus osum stem: An African timber Eugenia caryophyllus: Also called cloves Sorghum bicolor: Also known as sorghum, great millet, durra, jowari/jowar, or milo The main active compounds of these herbs are piperine, chavicine, capsaicin, and cubebin. The medicine is unlikely to cause significant side effects. Fagara zanthoxyloides Herbal management of sickle cell anemia involves a few other herbs as well, which have shown promising results. One of them is the root bark of fagara zanthoxyloides, a well-known medicinal plant in Uganda. The herb is also extensively used to treat malaria and other infections. A study suggests that the root bark of fagara zanthoxyloides can reduce the formation of sickle-shaped cells. Plus, it can lower the symptoms’ severity to a great extent. Terminalia catappa Also known as tropical almond or Indian almond tree, Terminalia catappa grows throughout Africa, Asia, and Australia. Extracts from the leaves of this tree have long been used in Africa for treating various ailments.

Food habits play a critical role in maintaining overall health and immunity. Any deficiencies in vitamin or nutrient content can trigger a series of discomforts linked to certain chronic conditions. Also, there are a number of food triggers that can aggravate existing symptoms in conditions like arthritis. This is one of the main reasons why it is essential to incorporate and eliminate certain food options to manage joint pain to some extent. Foods to have: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids Inflammation is one of the significant triggers of joint pain and discomforts. The body must naturally absorb omega-3 fatty acids to counter these problems and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Seafood like salmon, halibut, trout, sardines, and tuna are rich sources of this nutrient to be included among daily foods. Vegetarians can alternatively source omega-3s from a variety of nuts and seeds. Walnuts, pine nuts, almonds, chia seeds, and flax seeds are among the popular sources. Fresh fruits and vegetables Cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are loaded with nutrients that act as pain receptor blockers. Kale, purple cabbage, and mustard greens are popular choices among leafy greens. Similarly, fruits rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, can help manage the inflammatory responses to alleviate discomforts associated with joint problems. Assorted berries like cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries are excellent choices. Further, one can add pineapple as it is rich in a compound called bromelain. Bromelain has shown significant results in managing pain linked to rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Even tomatoes are loaded with lycopene that is a powerful antioxidant. Foods to avoid: Processed and canned foods Foods bought off the shelves in the supermarket are loaded with additives, preservatives, salt, sugar, and food coloring. The gluten from wheat, empty calories from processed foods, refined carbohydrates, fried foods, and even carbonated beverages can exacerbate the symptoms.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease of the lungs. It occurs when the lung tissue gets damaged and scarred, causing shortness of breath, dry cough, fatigue, chest pain, appetite loss, and other discomforts. Unfortunately, there’s no complete cure for pulmonary fibrosis. However, proper nutrition can help manage the condition. This article lists the foods patients must eat and avoid, along with a few medications, including Esbriet®, as treatment options for pulmonary fibrosis. Foods to eat The following foods can help manage pulmonary fibrosis: Whole grains Whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice are packed with fiber. They also have nutrients that can help lower cholesterol levels and decrease inflammation, improving the quality of life among pulmonary fibrosis patients. Lean protein Protein helps strengthen the chest and abdomen muscles, reducing breathing issues. One must choose high-quality lean proteins like skinless chicken breasts, eggs, and fatty fish. Some excellent plant-based protein sources include beans, peas, nuts, legumes, and tofu. Fruits and veggies Fresh fruits and vegetables like carrots, celery, spinach, berries, kiwi, and pineapple are loaded with a slew of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help support lung health and ease pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. Plus, they’re high in fiber and can boost digestion. Foods to avoid Certain foods can worsen pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. These include: Fried foods Fried foods, such as French fries, fried chicken, and potato chips, can cause throat irritation. This may trigger cough and also lead to bloating and gastric disturbances, making breathing difficult. Moreover, fried foods can cause fat gain, which can further worsen breathing problems. Cured meats Cured meats are loaded with nitrates, which act as a preservative and help meats maintain their color. Studies show that nitrates can damage lung tissue and worsen pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. Therefore, one must avoid cured meats like bacon, hot dogs, ham, and salami.

A healthy diet is one of the essentials of living an illness-free lifestyle, including lowering your risk of cancer. Understanding nutrition is essential if you are either managing this illness or trying to avoid it. Speak to a doctor in detail to know why these following foods should be avoided to reduce the risk of cancer. If you are managing your symptoms, you can also read about immunotherapy that may be helpful for your recovery. Processed meats These are primarily red meats like hot dogs, salami, sausage, corned beef, beef jerky, and ham. These meats are preserved using smoke, curing, salting, and canning and these processes can create carcinogens in the food. Several reviews suggest that over-consumption of processed meat is related to breast, stomach, and colorectal cancer. Fried foods According to research, a compound called acrylamide is formed when starchy ingredients are cooked in high temperatures, and this compound is responsible for damaging DNA and causing the death of cells. As over-consumption of fried foods can lead to obesity and risk of diabetes, it also increases oxidative stress in the body. These unhealthy reactions in the body may increase the risk of cancer. Alcohol The liver in the body breaks down alcohol into a compound called acetaldehyde. This compound is carcinogenic, and it promotes oxidative stress and damage to the body’s DNA. When such a reaction occurs in the body, it weakens the immune system, making it difficult to kill any cancerous cells in the body. Studies suggest that women who drink too much alcohol are at high risk of getting estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Immunotherapy treatment This is a type of therapy that works with the immune system to fight cancer cells. A healthy immune system can fight off the infections and diseases in the body, which are major health risks.

People who have eosinophilic asthma usually exhibit high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that helps build a strong immune system. However, when abnormally high levels of eosinophils come in contact with the cells present in the airways, they can cause inflammation. Eosinophilic asthma can also cause type-2 inflammation, resulting in decreased lung function. The following article specifically focuses on allergens like smells that trigger the symptoms of asthma. Symptoms of asthma A person who has inhaled asthma-triggering odors may exhibit symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing when exhaling, and frequent coughing. Shortness of breath may be caused due to decreased lung function or inflamed air passages in the case of eosinophilic asthma type-2 inflammation. Odors that trigger the symptoms of asthma The symptoms may be caused due to a variety of allergens, including dust, dander, or pollen. While these allergens can be avoided to a certain extent, allergens like gases and aerosols can be a challenge to avoid. Statistics suggest that more than 40 percent of people with asthma report health problems due to odors. The odors that trigger asthma symptoms include: Household smells These include air fresheners, chlorine and bleach (present in cleaning products), colognes and perfumes, deodorants, furniture polish (wood varnish), nail polish remover, fireplaces, and wood-burning stoves. Workplace smells Workplace smells include adhesives, carpet and flooring materials, gasoline, paint and paint thinner, and pesticides, among others. Here is how different smells trigger asthma symptoms The mechanism of adverse response to smells may be varied due to physiological and psychological processes. Odors usually activate the olfactory and trigeminal systems, which are associated with cranial nerves. The trigeminal nerve is an unmyelinated nerve distributed throughout the nasal passage. This nerve responds to the irritant vapors, leading to sensations like burning, tickling, and itching. The sensations give rise to neuropeptides, which potentially trigger asthma symptoms.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder that causes the airways to become restricted due to inflammation, which then triggers excess mucous production. 1 in 13 people are affected by this condition every year. There is no cure for asthma, but individuals can manage it to the point where symptoms become negligible. Given below are some useful tips on nutrition habits, lifestyle changes, preventive care, and effective prescriptions for asthma management: Treatment for asthma Prescriptions are the first line of treatment for asthma. Xolair® prevents common allergens from triggering asthma symptoms in patients who don’t respond positively to inhaled corticosteroids. Nucala® and Fasenra® both belong to a class of biologics designed to inhibit certain internal responses that trigger inflammation. Tezelpelumab, marketed under the brand name Tezspire™, specifically targets alarmins released by the lungs that trigger inflammation and lead to an asthma attack. Zyrtec® is an antihistamine that provides relief from indoor and outdoor allergies, which may aggravate asthma symptoms. Suggested nutrition for asthma Studies indicate that vitamins A, C, D, and E help lower the risk of asthma flareups. Egg yolks and salmon are excellent sources of vitamin D. Also, an apple a day can certainly keep asthma symptoms at bay. The fruit contains selenium, an anti-inflammatory compound shown to ease swelling in the airways. Cantaloupes and carrots are good sources of vitamin A and help promote healthy lung function. In addition, foods rich in antioxidants prevent cell damage and promote better respiratory functions. Assorted berries, dark greens, and leafy vegetables are a must-have to better manage asthma. Effective lifestyle changes Not getting adequate rest also increases the risk of infections and common allergies. A proper sleep routine plays a crucial role in boosting immunity. Daily exercise can help keep inflammation under control. In fact, any form of physical activity will promote better lung function.

The degeneration of brain cells can lead to the development of various health concerns. It can compromise the person’s cognitive and physical function and deteriorate their lifestyle. To avoid these complications, doctors often recommend adopting a healthy lifestyle. Eliminating unhealthy foods and adopting a healthy lifestyle can prevent the brain’s and other organs’ free radical damage. Here are three essential tips that help avoid the degeneration of brain cells due to dementia. Have these foods to prevent degeneration Proper nourishment is essential for brain functions, and providing the correct nutrients helps prevent this organ from rapid damage. Here are some foods to consider: Nuts Regular inclusion of nuts in meal plans can help develop better cognitive skills. It can also help keep other systems running smoothly. Nuts have also been linked to having a better memory. Green vegetables Two servings of green vegetables a week can help prevent the degeneration of brain cells. Those who include leafy vegetables in their daily meals are better protected against cognitive decline. Fatty fish Omega-3 fatty acids are abundant in fish like salmon, tuna, and herring. This nutrient also benefits people with low cognition and those at risk of developing degenerative brain disorders. Berries Berries are rich sources of anthocyanin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This compound helps prevent free radical damage and brain cell degeneration. Olive oil People who regularly use olive oil for cooking show better cognitive function. It helps in slowing down brain cell degeneration and the onset of symptoms. Get personal care For patients who can’t afford a long wait to see their physicians or can’t travel to a clinic, Optum Care can be of great help. The organization partners with healthcare professionals and clinics to provide better healthcare services by caring for patients’ primary and special-care needs.

A luxury cruise is your best escape strategy for a much-needed break from life on land. Besides the obvious “breath of fresh air,” the curated spa treatments, impeccable hospitality, varied interactions, and sightseeing can do wonders for your mental health. But choosing the right luxury cruise is crucial for a safe, fun-filled holiday with your loved ones. Here are some all-inclusive luxury cruises to consider for your next sea retreat. Seabourn This classy all-inclusive cruise offers world-class luxury amenities, from ocean-view suites and specialty restaurants to spa treatments, salons, and incredibly fancy open bars. The impactful mindfulness training sessions in collaboration with Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned expert, only add to its splendor. Viking Viking is your answer to a fulfilling sea expedition with a host of amenities on board, including 24×7 room service, a thermal suite spa, elaborate meals, supremely luxurious cabins, and complimentary ground transfers upon purchase of airfare through Viking, to name a few. Silversea Want to travel the world in relatively small but highly vibrant ships? Silversea Cruises has you covered. Gratuities, open bars, in-cabin bar setups, specialty restaurants, fitness sessions, and shuttle service on land are just some benefits. Passengers may opt for port-to-port or door-to-door travel, the only difference being that the latter offers international economy airfare and airport transfers facilitated by private executive car services. Scenic This cruise liner’s luxury expedition voyages are genuinely exceptional. Customers enjoy a wide range of remarkable facilities, from gourmet meals, sprawling decks, and spacious dining to a variety of options in terms of itineraries. Other world-class amenities include comprehensive laundry services, luxury suites, and on-suite minibars. Regent Seven Seas Cruises Touted as “the world’s most luxurious fleet,” Regent Seven Seas provides an all-inclusive luxury cruise experience in the truest sense. From pre-cruise hotel accommodations overnight and roundtrip airfare to 24-hours room service, two-for-one fares, laundry services, and luxurious dining, this cruise offers every facility you can imagine before and during your voyage.