Top foods to choose when dealing with thyroid cancer

Top foods to choose when dealing with thyroid cancer

The metabolic functions of the body are regulated by the thyroid gland through the production of hormones. When affected by thyroid cancer, one could experience health complications and should seek immediate treatment to remove the tumor. However, when treating the condition, it is critical to make better food choices. This can help reduce symptoms and avoid interfering with the treatment. So, here are some foods to choose from while undergoing thyroid cancer treatment: Vegetables Fresh vegetables, especially cruciferous and green vegetables, are crucial components of all meal plans. They are rich in magnesium and minerals, making them excellent nutrient sources. Green vegetables also help improve metabolism, particularly in the thyroid gland. So, people with the condition should opt for foods like spinach and lettuce. These vegetables can also help with symptoms like muscle pain, fatigue, and an irregular heartbeat due to their high magnesium content. Fruits and berries Many fruits, such as strawberries, tomatoes, raspberries, bananas, and apples, are high in antioxidants. These help with thyroid function and help fight toxic substances that can worsen thyroid-related issues. Thes fruits also support the body’s ability to stay healthy and fight diseases. Nuts Almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds are excellent sources of magnesium. These nuts are also high in plant protein, vitamin B, vitamin E, and other minerals that aid thyroid gland function. So, one should opt for these foods when undergoing thyroid cancer treatment. Seafood Seafood like shrimp, crab, and fish provide energy to the body, keeping it healthy. They also contain various thyroid-friendly nutrients, such as iodine, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, B vitamins, and selenium. Fish contains lean protein, amino acids, magnesium, and vitamin B. However, one should consult their doctor before opting for seafood, as some treatment procedures call for low-iodine meal plans. Egg whites Egg whites are high in protein and can help people maintain their strength and recover quicker when undergoing cancer treatment.
Lymphoma types and early warning signs

Lymphoma types and early warning signs

Lymphoma cancer is detected in the lymphatic system, which comprises the bone marrow, spleen, lymph nodes, stomach, intestines, and skin. The disease is marked by abnormal growth of white blood cells. More than half a million new lymphoma cases are diagnosed in the country every year. Since lymph tissues are spread throughout the body, lymphoma can start almost anywhere. Here are some common early signs of the disease to look out for. Types of lymphoma The disease can be classified into over 70 types based on cancer growth, aggression, and symptoms. The disease originates in white blood cells called B lymphocytes (B cells) and T lymphocytes (T cells) found in the bone marrow. Broadly, lymphoma is divided into two types: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma It begins in the lymphatic system and is marked by abnormal white blood cell growth that forms tumors throughout one’s body. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is more common in older adults. Hodgkin lymphoma Hodgkin lymphoma usually begins in B cells and is comparatively easier to cure at an early stage. It can affect both kids and adults at any point. Several treatments are available for the disease, from chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, to stem cell transplantation. A patient’s recovery depends on the type and stage of their cancer. What are the early signs of lymphoma? Enlargement of lymph nodes is usually the first sign of lymphoma and can feel or appear like lumps under one’s skin. These bumps are usually painless but can be itchy, red, or purple. They can appear around one’s armpits, above the collarbone, groin area, or on the side of the neck. Additionally, depending on the location of the lymphoma, one can look for the following early signs of the disease. Enlargement of lymph nodes Abdominal pain or swelling due to fluid buildup or spleen or liver enlargement Nausea or vomiting Loss of muscle or body mass Chills Breathing difficulties Easy bruising Inexplicable or chronic fatigue Chest pain Coughing Recurring infections Loss of appetite or feeling full without eating much Apart from these, non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients can also exhibit the following symptoms:
4 silent warning signs of hemophilia

4 silent warning signs of hemophilia

Hemophilia is a rare, inherited condition in which a person lacks certain blood clotting proteins. The absence or low levels of these clotting factors means their blood won’t clot after sustaining any injury. Several symptoms of hemophilia may seem harmless and quite common on the surface; however, these are some underrated indications of this disorder in individuals. Here are a few silent symptoms of hemophilia that one must not ignore. Frequent nose bleeds Nosebleeds are common among many people during the winter months. During this period, people get nosebleeds as they spend time indoors often. The heated indoor air dries out one’s nasal passageways, making blood vessels weak. Eventually, the blood vessels rupture and cause nosebleeds. Sudden nosebleeds are a critical indicator of hemophilia. So, one must consult their local healthcare expert when they experience this symptom. Joint pains Frequent instances of internal bleeding can indicate hemophilia. This bleeding is caused by internal cellular and tissue fragility that causes frequent internal bruising and blood loss. These factors lead to joint pains in a person’s knees, hips, ankles, shoulders, elbows, or other areas. Most people may ignore joint pains as just another injury or sprain; however, one must consult a healthcare expert if one experiences prolonged joint pain. Double vision One crucial and often an under-discussed symptom of hemophilia is bleeding into the brain. Although this kind of bleeding is rarely life-threatening for hemophilia patients, brain bleeds can cause other problems, such as headaches and constant drowsiness. Another silent hemophilia sign caused by brain bleeding is double vision. People who experience this symptom may believe that they have vision problems. However, one must undergo screening for hemophilia when one experiences double vision. Heavy menstrual periods Usually, men are more prone to hemophilia than women. However, some females and girls with this condition will likely experience heavy, prolonged, and uncomfortable menstrual bleeding episodes.
5 unexpected things that may increase one’s cancer risk

5 unexpected things that may increase one’s cancer risk

The incidences of cancer have been estimated at 442.4 per 1,00,000 men and women in the country. This health condition has emerged as a major cause of concern. However, interventions for cancer are becoming more advanced and successful. Following a prescribed treatment course and making some lifestyle changes can help in the symptom management of cancer. But here are some things you probably never knew could increase one’s risk for this disease. Chimneys Chimney sweeping results in exposure to large volumes of soot and dust. Ingestion of wood fumes, coal, and other burnt substances have been found to cause scrotal skin cancer or scrotal carcinoma, now commonly called as Pott’s cancer. Historically, children, particularly young boys, were ordered to clean chimneys due to their petite sizes. The prevalence of chimney sweep cancer among these children led to the discovery of this cancer type by doctor Percivall Pott in London in 1775. Hair straighteners According to recent studies the use of hair straighteners and relaxers may increase women’s susceptibility to uterine cancer. Moreover, it suggested that women of African descent may be at higher risk for this type of cancer than others.  Scented candles Scented candles are often the ideal props to set up the perfect romantic dinner or date night. However, studies have found that scented candles emit certain cancer-causing chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene. Although occasional burning of scented candles is unlikely to trigger cancer, repeated exposure to these candles in poorly ventilated spaces can increase one’s susceptibility to bladder cancer. Grilled foods Cooking over high flame releases heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These elements are carcinogens that may increase one’s risk for cancer. The grilling process as well as grilled foods can contribute to cancer; therefore, one should limit the intake of grilled foods and protect one’s skin from carcinogens by wearing appropriate clothing while grilling.
6 exercises for better migraine management

6 exercises for better migraine management

Migraine is a neurological condition identified by recurrent episodes of moderate to severe headaches and differs from regular headaches. Symptoms like sensitivity to sound and light, vomiting, watery eyes, and nausea accompany migraine headaches. While multiple treatment options exist for migraines, there is no known cure. However, it is possible to manage the condition with the help of food and lifestyle changes. Multiple forms of exercise also help in better migraine management. Tai Chi This is a fluent form of martial arts that combines fluid movements and deep breathing and is an effective form of exercise to help with migraine pain. Since stress is a common migraine trigger, it can help patients manage their symptoms. It also effectively reduces blood pressure and improves the patient’s overall health. Pilates Pilates helps strengthen the core muscles, improves body posture, and promotes relaxation. In addition, it can help relax and decrease the frequency and intensity of migraines. This improvement in posture and muscle relaxation may contribute to reducing migraines. Strength training Muscle tension and poor posture can both contribute to the list of migraine triggers. Strength training exercises like resistance band training or weight lifting can help with both problems. Building a strong neck can also help reduce the likelihood of tension headaches by providing better support for the neck and shoulders. Yoga Yoga promotes physical and mental relaxation by combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It helps reduce stress levels, reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. In addition, specific yoga postures can increase blood flow to the brain, relieving the tension in the shoulders and the neck. Since these are some of the most common areas of tension and pain in people with migraine, yoga can be highly effective. Cardiovascular exercises Aerobic activities that are responsible for increasing heart rate and breathing can be of assistance when trying to help lower migraine pain.
Top 10 overlooked tax deductions

Top 10 overlooked tax deductions

In the rush of filing taxes, it can be easy to overlook deductions that could help you save money. Tax deductions are expenses you can subtract from your taxable income. Knowing which expenses can be claimed as deductions is the key to limiting the hard-earned money you owe the government. From student loan interest payments to health expenses, here are some of the most overlooked tax deductions you should know: How do deductions work? Tax deductions lower the amount of tax you owe. A standard tax deduction—a single deduction of a fixed amount—is determined by your filing status: single, married, head of household, or filing jointly. You can claim the standard deduction without providing additional documentation or expense receipts. In contrast, itemized deductions are specific expenses you can deduct from your taxable income, such as clinical expenses, charitable contributions, and mortgage interest. Most overlooked tax deductions Job hunting expenses If you are looking for a new job in your existing field, you may be able to deduct expenses such as those incurred in resume preparation, traveling for interviews, and career counseling services. Charitable contributions Many know that cash donations to charity can be claimed as deductions but often overlook non-cash contributions like clothing or household items. Clinical and dental expenses You can deduct expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income for clinical and dental care. Moving expenses If you move for a new job, you may be able to deduct expenses such as transportation and lodging from the tax amount. Student loan interest If you are paying interest on a student loan, you can claim a deduction of up to $2,500. Tax preparation fees Taxpayers can deduct fees paid to tax professionals, tax software charges, and other tax-related expenses. Sponsoring a child The money you give an organization supporting underprivileged children can be tax deductible.
Top 5 desserts for migraine sufferers

Top 5 desserts for migraine sufferers

With a migraine, anything one eats can be a trigger. But that does not mean that one needs to skip out on desserts and other foods they enjoy. Swapping out certain ingredients can help create a migraine-friendly meal plan and boost one’s health. Gluten and sugar, the main ingredients in most desserts, are also the biggest triggers for people with migraine. Try these five updated dessert recipes to continue enjoying one’s favorite foods even with a migraine: Carrot muffins Made with migraine-friendly ingredients like carrots, gluten-free flour, and cinnamon, carrot muffins are loaded with magnesium and antioxidants to help keep migraine headaches under control, making them a great dessert or snack option. “Chocolate” pudding For many people, the phenylethylamine in chocolate has been linked to migraine headaches. Try switching cocoa with carob powder and sweetening it with dates to create a chocolate-free “chocolate” pudding that tastes like the real deal. Using cooked millet instead of flour gives this dessert an added dose of magnesium. Almond-orange cake with cream cheese frosting Prepare a delicious almond-orange cake with almond flour, oranges, and eggs. It comes together quickly and is a delicious gluten-free low-carb option for migraine sufferers. Frost it with cream cheese to give it a birthday cake that looks perfect for any party. Not-ella Carob Butter This simple 5-ingredient recipe only calls for toasted sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, stevia, carob powder, and coconut oil. It is ideal for people missing out on name-brand chocolate spreads and can be paired with fruit for a quick, healthy, and migraine-friendly dessert. Strawberries and cream pop Are you missing ice cream? Here’s the perfect hack! Use a freezer pop maker to make some at home using coconut milk, strawberries, natural stevia, and vanilla extract. These candy pops are low in sugar and rich in antioxidants from berries and healthy fats from coconut oil.
8 alternatives to using tampons

8 alternatives to using tampons

For decades, tampons have been the go-to solution for menstrual hygiene for women all over the world. But traditional tampons and pads create a significant amount of waste and can be uncomfortable for many women. With increasing concerns about the environmental impact of disposable menstrual products and health issues associated with tampon usage, many women are now looking for sustainable, eco-friendly, and easier alternatives. Here are 8 best alternatives to tampons that one can consider. Menstrual cups Menstrual cups are a popular alternative to tampons. They are small, flexible, and made of medical-grade silicone or latex. Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours and can be reused for up to ten years, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. Period underwear Period underwear or pants is designed to absorb menstrual blood and can be worn alone or as a backup to other menstrual products. These underwear come in a variety of styles and absorbency levels, making them a versatile option for women. Reusable pads Reusable pads are a soft, comfortable, and an environmentally-friendly alternative to the traditional disposable pads. They can be washed and reused multiple times. Made from a variety of materials like cotton fleece, polyester, micro-fiber bamboo and other absorbent fabrics, reusable pads come in a variety of sizes. Sea sponges Sea sponges are a natural, eco-friendly alternative to tampons. They are harvested from the ocean and can be reused for up to six months. Sea sponges are soft and comfortable, making them a great alternative for women who find tampons uncomfortable. Period discs Period discs are a newer alternative to tampons. They are small, disposable discs that are inserted into the vagina and can be worn for up to 12 hours. Period discs are designed to be comfortable and leak-proof, making them a great option for women who lead active lifestyles.
7 side effects of not drinking enough water

7 side effects of not drinking enough water

More than half of the human body is made up of water. This fluid is indispensable in helping different organs carry out their functions correctly. Drinking less water can cause dehydration and contribute to several health conditions. To avoid complications, smartwatches and mobile apps have been developed to remind people to drink water regularly and stay hydrated. The following are a few common repercussions one may face due to less water intake. Constipation Water helps food move through the gastrointestinal tract. When the body does not have sufficient water, it cannot perform this function effectively. As a result, individuals may experience hard stools or constipation. Bad breath Water helps produce saliva and destroy the bacteria inside the mouth, resulting in optimal oral hygiene. Dehydration hampers this process, leading to bad breath. The foul smell may not recede despite brushing regularly and practicing other oral care activities. Skin problems Although moisturizing and cleansing are essential skincare practices, they are typically ineffective if one does not drink enough water. Dry skin is among the most common symptoms of dehydration. The skin may appear sunken and dull, with dark circles underneath the eyes and chapped lips. Dark-yellow urine When a person is dehydrated, the kidneys try to conserve water in the body, which causes the urine to become darker in color. Thus, dark-yellow urine is a sign of less water intake. Craving for high-sugar and high-carb foods A sudden craving for foods high in sugar and carbs is another symptom of dehydration. When dehydrated, the body cannot utilize glucose to produce energy. Consequently, individuals may experience sudden cravings or hunger even after heavy meals. Frequent headaches Many individuals who are dehydrated experience severe and frequent headaches. Such headaches are often accompanied by other dehydration symptoms like dry mouth and fatigue. Fatigue Low water intake can cause extreme tiredness and fatigue.
Ataxia – Warning signs, causes, and types

Ataxia – Warning signs, causes, and types

Ataxia is a condition that generally results from damage to the cerebellum or its connections, the part of the brain controlling muscle coordination. It can be a result or a symptom of various conditions like stroke, tumor, brain degeneration, multiple sclerosis, or genetic disorders. Ataxia can affect a person’s coordination, speech, and balance and make it difficult to swallow or walk. Keep reading to learn more about the warning signs of this condition. Symptoms of ataxia Some early warning signs of ataxia to watch out for include- Problems with coordination and balance, such as clumsiness or frequent falling Facing trouble with fine motor skills such as picking up small objects, writing, or buttoning up clothes Slurred or unclear speech Tremors or muscle spasms Difficulties with eating or swallowing Unusual eye movements, such as blinking slower than usual or suffering from nystagmus (a form of involuntary eye movement) Cardiovascular issues The severity of the symptoms of this condition depends on the type of ataxia one is dealing with. Genetic failures, other health conditions, vitamin deficiencies, injuries, or immunological problems can cause ataxia. Depending on the causes, ataxia may be categorized into three types. Inherited ataxia Inherited ataxia occurs when a parent (or both parents) passes on a congenital disability to their child. It may worsen from one generation to the next. The most common types of inherited ataxia are spinocerebellar ataxia, episodic ataxia, Friedreich’s ataxia, and ataxia telangiectasia. Acquired ataxia Many external events can also cause ataxia. These include brain surgery, tumors, head injuries, infections such as meningitis and chickenpox, exposure to toxic chemicals such as mercury or lead, neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy, stroke, an underactive thyroid, vitamin B12 deficiency, chemotherapy, etc. Idiopathic ataxia When no underlying cause is found for the condition, it is known as idiopathic ataxia.
5 uncomfortable questions to ask a gynecologist

5 uncomfortable questions to ask a gynecologist

Visiting the gynecologist once a year is important. However, you may feel nervous about scheduling an appointment, with concerns like the need for grooming before a checkup and discomfort you may experience during the examination. Additionally, being on your period can make you put off the visit. This embarrassment can also keep you from asking important questions during your visit. But here are a few seemingly uncomfortable questions you can ask your doctor: Should I be worried about bumps down there? Bumps in intimate areas may not always be a cause for concern. There are numerous reasons for the vaginal area can develop acne or bumps, including shaving. Other reasons could be sebaceous cysts, skin tags, or gentle warts. You do not have to be embarrassed to ask your gynecologist about such skin issues, especially if you experience any pain or changes in the color or size of the bump. Is my vaginal discharge concerning? Vaginal discharge is part of normal reproductive health. However, if the discharge causes discomfort like itching or pain, you should speak to your OB/GYN about it. A cottage cheese-like discharge could be an indication of a yeast infection, while greying vaginal discharge with a raw egg-like odor can be a sign of bacterial vaginosis. The doctor can help determine the cause. Why is intercourse painful for me? Pain during sex is not an issue you should overlook. Psychological factors, lack of lubrication, infection, or uterine fibroids are just some of the reasons that could make intercourse a painful experience for you. Your gynecologist can help you get the appropriate treatment when you ask the necessary questions. Moreover, if you choose to use birth control, your gynec can guide you safely about birth control depending on your medical history. Why is my libido so low? Thyroid issues, changes in hormonal levels, or even age can be the answer to this question.
6 signs of bad dental practices

6 signs of bad dental practices

Maintaining good oral hygiene does not simply refer to brushing, flossing, and home remedies. Periodic planned visits to the dentist’s office also determine the scope of oral care in the long run. But one must also be aware of the possibility of dental negligence from the professional and unsafe practices that con unsuspecting patients. It’s necessary to assert extra vigilance and identify these common red flags that question the authenticity of dental care treatments. Providing inflated bills Often, people get overwhelmed with technical jargon used for explaining treatment packages. Some professionals take advantage of this situation to bill charges explicitly without one’s knowledge. Not paying attention to detail A comprehensive exam and a thorough review of past health complications can provide valuable insights for the dentist to plan a good treatment. However, if he or she is taking this step lightly, then it’s better to avoid fixing another appointment and find a better practitioner in the neighborhood. Lack of ethics Speaking rudely, not paying attention, or unnecessarily losing one’s calm because their patients are asking questions are all warning signs that should not be ignored or tolerated. Too many promotions and ads A dental clinic that spends too much time and money advertising on billboards and online may not be good enough, as there is such a thing called as overselling. If the professional services and treatments are good, the clinic’s reputation will likely increase through good word-of-mouth publicity. Also, look out for promotional offers that are too good to be true. Communication is a problem Healthcare professionals need to take into account personal considerations of their patients while discussing treatments. If the dentist seems disinterested or dismissive by nature, it is a clear sign that he or she is not really serious about helping overcome one’s dental problems. Bad testimonials Check social media pages and online review sites to learn more about the dental clinic and the services provided by its staff.