All homes require water as long as it flows through pipes and the drainage system. However, if there are hidden water leaks, they might result in severe damage if not repaired on time. While obvious signs such as water stains make it easy to spot the leak, it is sometimes insidious, making it challenging to find and fix. Here are 4 ways to find hidden water leaks and take remedial action in time. Check the water bill Most households get a water bill that is fairly consistent every month. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a household of four persons will generally use 12,000 gallons per month. Exceptions are warmer weather or when lawns and gardens have to be watered regularly. However, if the water bill suddenly becomes unusually high, it may be a sign of water leakage. Even a small leak, like a faucet dripping steadily, can cause about 10,000 gallons of water to be wasted per year. Thus, monitoring the water bill is a useful practice to keep a check on water leaks. Conduct a water meter test Another effective way to find hidden water leaks is a water meter test. To do this, turn off all the faucets, showers, and water sources around the house. Once this is done, check the readings in the water meter. If there is a water leak, the meter will keep on running. The change in readings may not be obvious immediately, especially if it is a slow-running leak. So, it is recommended to check the meter after a couple of hours. Look for patches of greener grass For homes with lawns and yards, checking for grass patches that are greener than the rest is a helpful hack to look for hidden leaks. If a part of the lawn is more lush and green than the rest, it may be because of leakage in one of the buried water lines.

This year’s biggest Black Friday specials will likely offer some of the most substantial cuts ever across a wide range of popular businesses and brands. Stores are working hard to offer seasonal items and avoid supply chain problems. While major shops are expected to offer great bargains, it is essential to buy with local businesses, especially in the post-pandemic era. Based on the discounts offered last year, here’s a look at what you can expect this year. Nordstrom Nordstrom could offer up to 50% off hundreds of selected goods from leading brands, as was the case last year. Longchamp items, such as the Le Pliage Cuir Leather Shoulder Bag, were discounted by 20-30%. Kiehl’s skincare sets The Daily Hydrating Skincare Gift Set was discounted at $48 (original value $66), which includes full-sized versions of two Kiehl’s classics: Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane and the renowned Avocado Eye Cream, suitable for everyone. Home Depot Refrigerators Home Depot previously offered up to $900 off refrigerators. Refrigerator discounts of up to $900 are available at Home Depot on some of the greatest brands in large appliances. Shop for Black Friday deals on Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool appliances. Amazon Amazon has some of the best discounts, and the Black Friday sales are chock-full of must-haves! Coach Outlet You could get up to 70% off Coach Outlet bags, wallets, shoes, and more, plus an extra 25% off sitewide. You could also enjoy free shipping on orders of $50 or more. Home Depot Dishwashers Whether you’re searching for a low-cost dishwasher or an upgrade to one with all the latest features, Home Depot is expected to offer up to 30% off a wide selection. Kohl’s With its online Black Friday deals, Kohl’s brings its A-game. In the past, we’ve seen a much lower free shipping requirement, thousands of deep discounts, and $15 Kohl’s Cash for every $50 bought.

As a dog owner, one of the biggest concerns to tackle is fleas and tick infestation. These parasites feed off the pets’ blood, causing excessive scratching and irritation. There is a variety of flea and tick repellents in the market. However, it is necessary to be aware of natural remedies. The following article lists some of the most effective treatments to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs at home: Clinical options Before discussing natural remedies to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs, it is also important to be aware of clinical treatment options.  Simparica® This is one such option that prevents flea and tick infestation in dogs. The FDA-approved oral treatment option can be given once a month which remains effective for up to 35 days. Other treatment options Other options include Bravecto® and K9 Advantix®, where the latter is a topical treatment used on a monthly basis, and the former is an oral treatment option used once in three months. Bravecto® can also be used for getting rid of heartworm. Foods to eat Experts say that fleas and ticks are likely to attack weak and unhealthy animals. If your dog is given healthy and nutritious foods, fleas and tick infestation won’t be a problem. Make sure your dog’s meal comprises of fresh whole foods and unprocessed proteins. Nutrients such as B vitamins, probiotics, sulfur, omega-6 fatty acids, and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for their health. These nutrients can be acquired from foods like meats, organ meats, fatty fish, flaxseed, poultry, eggs, broccoli, cauliflower, and more. Natural home remedies Essential oils The topical application of essential oils is one of the best natural remedies for treating fleas and tick infestation in dogs. It’s best to use essential oils like lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, cedar oil, or eucalyptus oil.

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a health condition where one experiences a frequent urge to urinate. They also find it hard to control, leading to involuntary loss of urine. About 33 million people across the country are diagnosed with an overactive bladder, and women are more prone to the condition than men. Read on to learn about the treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms of an overactive bladder: Treatment options Besides simple home remedies, several oral treatments help manage the symptoms of an overactive bladder. The most common FDA-approved options include GEMTESA, MYRBETRIQ, and TOVIAZ. These work in different ways to relax the bladder muscles, help the bladder hold more urine, and keep it from squeezing often. If used correctly, they can reduce the frequency and urgency of going to the bathroom. Meal plans A balanced food plan can help cope with the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Patients must avoid sodas, canned juices, flavored yogurt, and ice cream. These have added sweeteners and preservatives that irritate the bladder, squeezing it and making it difficult for the muscles to relax. Instead, one can opt for fresh juices, high-protein home-cooked meals, whole grains, and fiber. Creating a meal plan makes it easy to have the ingredients ready for different recipes. If unsure, one can consult a doctor about the foods to eat and avoid. Lifestyle changes Doctors advise patients to follow an active lifestyle besides using treatments and eating the right foods. A 40-minute workout can be rewarding. One can choose a sport, go for morning or evening walks, or join a fitness club. Specific exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, helping control the urge to urinate for longer. However, strengthening the pelvic muscles can take some time, and patients must seek the advice of an expert to perform the exercises correctly.

We spend at least a third of the day in our beds. And that’s just for getting some rest or for sleeping. Factor in a few more hours of the day if you’re binging on TV or scrolling through social media. While everyone’s bedtime routine looks different, one thing remains constant – no one likes the feeling of a dirty bed or mattress. Here are six habits that could be making your mattress dirty: Eating in bed While the idea of curling up in bed with snacks is comforting, eating in bed can leave behind crumbs and spills which attract bugs. Hence, it is best to avoid eating in bed and preserve it as a sanctum of comfort and sleep. Putting the day’s bags on the bed Your bag has seen all your day’s adventures, collecting dust and germs on the way. Putting it on the bed can transfer these impurities onto your bed, making it dirty, and grimy, and therefore impacting health and sleep quality. Getting into bed as soon as you get home Just like your bag, your outfit has also been in contact with outside bacteria. Getting into bed with the same clothes can transfer these bacteria onto your bed. Working in bed Even with pandemic restrictions reaching their natural end, many of us continue to work from our beds at home. Not only can this prove counterproductive, but also unhygienic, as it doubles the number of germs in our beds. Not cleaning up pet dander According to a study, one of the most common allergens found on beds is pet dander, including fur and bacteria. To avoid this, bathe your pets twice a week, and clean their paws before allowing them into bed. Not washing your sheets often Our beds have a lot of dry skin cell deposits on them.

Dementia is a psychological condition involving the progressive loss of cognitive abilities, including memory, reasoning, concentration, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. Many patients with dementia show behavioral changes and mood swings, hallucinate, and get disorientated and irritable. Besides early diagnosis and timely treatment, constant care, family support, and some lifestyle changes can contribute to healing from dementia. Here are some foods that can help individuals prevent and manage dementia symptoms: Spinach Spinach contains high levels of lutein, an antioxidant that helps prevent loss of cognitive functions. Moreover, several studies have drawn associations between the intake of spinach and other leafy greens and the prevention of cognitive decline. Spinach can be added to stir-fries, gravies, soups, smoothies, etc. Fatty fish Fatty fish varieties like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are packed with Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Studies have demonstrated a decline in DHA levels among individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, a leading cause of dementia. Thus, a meal plan rich in DHA can help reduce one’s susceptibility to these psychological conditions. A daily intake of 200 mg of DHA is recommended for brain health. Broccoli Being a cruciferous vegetable, broccoli is rich in carotenoids and vitamin B. These components can reduce the levels of homocysteine, an amino acid known to contribute to cognitive decline and related psychological conditions in the body. It also contains compounds called glucosinolates, which are broken down into compounds called isothiocyanates. These compounds are proven to reduce one’s risk for neurodegenerative diseases. Eggs Eggs are rich in choline, found to enhance cognitive function. Furthermore, one egg yolk contains approximately 200 mcg of lutein, another essential component for preventing cognitive decline. Thus, a meal plan rich in protein sources like eggs can protect cognitive health. Avocados Avocados are packed with vitamin B and can help with the reduction of homocysteine, a risk factor for psychological disorders.

Pain is a natural response of the body that alerts one of potential harm or injury. While some types of pain are normal and can be easily treated with natural or holistic home remedies, there are certain types of pain that may be severe or persistent. These pains may be signs or causes of underlying health conditions that require immediate medical attention. Certain types of pain that one should never ignore are listed below. Chest pain Chest pain can indicate a heart attack or angina- a form of chest pain triggered by reduced blood flow to the heart. Chest pain can also indicate other severe conditions, such as a pulmonary embolism or aortic dissection. Severe headache    Common causes of headaches include dehydration, lack of sleep, eye strain, or sinus infection. But when one experiences a severe or sudden headache or headaches accompanied by other symptoms like a stiff neck, vision changes, dizziness, or tingling on one side of the body, it may be a warning sign of underlying health concerns. Usually, severe headaches may result from a head injury, the onset of stroke, meningitis, low blood sugar, or more. Abdominal pain    Abdominal pain can indicate various health conditions like appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, or a kidney stone. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional is advised if one experiences severe or persistent abdominal pain. Back pain   Severe or persistent lower back pain can indicate an underlying disease such as kidney stones or kidney infection. The pain can either be dull or sharp and can be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea and painful urination. Unusually painful periods   Women who experience severe or abnormally painful periods may feel cramping, sharp pain, or a constant ache in their lower abdomen or back. The pain may accompany heavy bleeding or irregular periods and interfere with daily activities.

People often purchase humidifiers, carpets, and other products to keep their homes clean and fresh. However, not all of these are as harmless as they seem. Some household products can lead to lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) when not handled or used correctly. Therefore, one must take every precaution to protect one’s respiratory well-being. Here are a few household products that can harm the lungs and increase the risk of COPD. Humidifiers Humidifiers help moisten dry indoor air and relieve respiratory symptoms and dry skin. However, they can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and mold if not cleaned regularly. When turned on, the machine can release these pathogens into the air, which one may inhale. Studies suggest inhaling mold may worsen breathlessness and related COPD symptoms. Therefore, those diagnosed with or at risk of this condition should clean the humidifier regularly by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Experts also suggest using distilled water to minimize the risk of contamination. Flour While flour is a staple in many kitchens, it can affect lung health when mishandled. When flour is poured or mixed vigorously, fine particles become airborne and can be inhaled. For individuals with sensitivity or allergies, this can lead to respiratory irritation. Furthermore, studies say that flour dust plays a role in the development of COPD. Hence, one should use precautions like wearing a mask and working in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk. Candles Scented candles are great for creating a cozy atmosphere at home. However, when burned, they can release harmful chemicals into the air. Some candles, mainly those made from paraffin wax, may emit toxins that can irritate the respiratory tract. Moreover, they can worsen breathlessness in those with COPD, causing them to breathe harder. Using candles made from natural materials like soy or beeswax and ensuring proper ventilation can minimize the adverse effects on COPD patients.

Surface cleaners play a pivotal role in helping one maintain a clean and hygienic living environment. They help get rid of dirt, germs, and stains, leaving the home’s surfaces sparkling and safe. But, choosing the right product is not always a straightforward process. Individuals must note several factors when considering surface cleaners to ensure effectiveness and safety. Here are some of these critical aspects to help consumers make informed choices. 8 things to avoid while considering surface cleaners Harsh chemicals Avoid cleaners that contain harsh chemicals in their ingredients list, especially for everyday use. These include chemicals like bleach, ammonia, sodium hydroxide, emulsifiers like MEA, DEA, and TEA, SLS and SLES, sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate, and petroleum solvents. These chemicals can harm one’s health, irritate the skin and eyes, and emit harmful fumes. One can either go for eco-friendly alternatives in the market, like white vinegar or essential oils, or make natural cleaners at home. Unlabeled surface cleaners Choose products with clear, complete ingredient lists or labels. Avoid products that don’t disclose their ingredients, as it may be difficult to assess their safety and effectiveness. Lack of safety information Check for safety information on the label, such as whether the product is safe for use around pets or children. Avoid products that lack this important information. Environmentally toxic products Consider products that are environmentally friendly and biodegradable whenever possible. Avoid cleaners that contain pollutants or non-biodegradable ingredients that can harm ecosystems. One can also look for products that carry certifications for environmental and safety standards. This can provide assurance of a product’s quality and safety. Excessive fragrance Some surface cleaners contain strong fragrances that can trigger allergies or sensitivities. Look for products labeled as fragrance-free or with mild scents if one is sensitive to fragrances. Ignoring special needs If one has specific cleaning needs, such as allergies or asthma, one should consider cleaners designed for those conditions.

Waterproofing the basement helps prevent water damage, a common problem in homes. It can also lower the risk of other moisture-related issues, like mold and decay. However, certain lapses in the waterproofing process can make the basement vulnerable to leaks and water damage. So, it is important to get the waterproofing technique right. This ensures water cannot sneak into basement walls, helping enhance the durability and preserving the property’s overall value. 1. Ignoring signs of moisture Signs of moisture could be damp spots on walls, peeling paint, musty odor, or efflorescence—a white, powdery residue on surfaces brought on by water evaporation. Though seemingly minor, the signs are early indicators of underlying water issues that can become bigger problems uf left unchecked. If one notices these signs, they should get basement waterproofing done immediately. 2. Poor drainage system installation A critical aspect of basement waterproofing is proper drainage. Inadequate or improperly installed drainage systems make water pool around the foundation and eventually enter the basement walls. So, while waterproofing, one should ensure the drainage system can divert water from the home. 3. Choosing the wrong materials Choosing unsuitable or low-quality waterproofing materials can cause premature failure of the waterproofing system. So, choosing high-quality products recommended for a basement’s specific conditions is crucial. One should consult professionals to learn about the best options available. 4. DIY without experience While DIY projects can help one save money, attempting to waterproof the basement without the necessary expertise can be risky. Professional waterproofers have the skills, experience, and tools required to ensure that the job is done correctly the first time. 5. Incorrect sealant application Applying sealant is among the most common methods of waterproofing basements, but incorrect application can make it ineffective. Before applying sealant, one should ensure the surface is clean and dry.

Due to physical limitations, health issues, or other circumstances, older adults may require additional support to manage their daily activities as they age. In such situations, the role of a caregiver becomes crucial. Caregivers can provide such seniors with personal care, medical assistance, and emotional support. The caregiver’s support depends on the recipient’s requirements. However, caregiving can be broadly classified into four types based on the nature of the support provided. Professional caregivers When seeking care services, it’s important to rely on trained and certified professionals for the best possible care. Fortunately, many options are available for healthcare professionals who specialize in various areas of caregiving. For instance, one can find registered and practical nurses trained to provide medical care and ensure well-being. Professional caregivers also include certified nursing assistants to assist with activities of daily living (ADLs). Nurses and nursing assistants are usually available for help at a senior living facility, hospice care center, or hospital. Home health aides can be hired to provide personal care and support for those looking for professional caregivers at home. In addition, physical, occupational, and speech therapists can also be hired if specialized care and rehabilitation services are needed. Family caregivers Sometimes, family members become caregivers. These include parents, spouses, children, and siblings of individuals who need care. This usually happens when the care needs are basic and do not require the caregiver to have professional training. Sometimes, a senior may have a family caregiver working alongside a professional caregiver. Informal caregivers Along with family members providing caregiving assistance, a senior may have few informal caregivers. These may include friends, neighbors, and acquaintances willing to support the person’s care needs. Volunteer caregivers These are individuals who work with community centers or nonprofit organizations. They provide unpaid support and caregiving services to those who need it.

A virtual private network or VPN is one of the most useful tools for privacy that can be used at its best when using a public network, as it makes data tracking difficult due to encrypted connection. A VPN connection hides one’s IP address, which prevents companies from keeping tabs on your browsing history. So, if you are thinking of ramping up your privacy setting while using the internet, the following VPN services of 2021 can help you stay off the radar. NordVPN It is one of the best VPN services of 2021 that offers its services for both mobiles and desktops. The VPN service offers not only AES-256 standard encryption but also a double VPN system that encrypts the internet traffic twice. This ensures stronger network impermeability when using public networks. NordVPN is one of those VPN services with at least 5,000 servers in more than 60 countries, ensuring uninterrupted privacy. Moreover, it allows up to six simultaneous connections. Some of its other features include DNS leak protection, proxy extensions on Firefox and Chrome browsers, and kill switches. It is also one of the few VPN servers that accepts Bitcoin as payment. CyberGhost If you are looking for unblocked worldwide access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and iPlayer, CyberGhost is the VPN service for you. One of the best features of CyberGhost is it has at least 7,000 servers with more than 105 server locations in 91 countries, allowing maximum simultaneous connections of more than 7 devices. CyberGhost runs on almost all operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. The VPN service offers a trial period of 45 days with a money-back guarantee. Surfshark Like most VPN services, Surfshark offers its services on almost all OS platforms, making it compatible with mobile phones and desktops, thereby ensuring maximum privacy even on public networks.