5 Common Causes of Tinnitus
General Health

5 Common Causes of Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the perception of sound with no external source—meaning other people cannot hear it. It commonly is described as a ringing sound, but some others experience a roaring or buzzing. With the condition being so common, approximately 10-25% of adults have it, there are some treatment options and hearing solutions, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and tinnitus therapy that each can help reduce symptoms and improve hearing. Here are 5 common causes of tinnitus: 1. Noise exposure Most individuals are diagnosed with tinnitus after exposure to loud noise, whether that’s in the workplace, a concert, a sporting event, and so on. This condition is the most common service-related disability among veterans, due to the loud noise experienced from gunfire, machinery, bomb blasts, or other relative noises. 2. Hearing loss Hearing loss is often attributed to aging or exposure to loud noise, and it is strongly associated with tinnitus. However, it is possible that individuals with hearing loss will never experience tinnitus. 3. Medications It’s important to always read the side effects of medications, as tinnitus can even be caused by certain medications—especially if they’re taken at high doses. Common medications that are associated with tinnitus include non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (e.g.
Read More
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Buying Life Insurance
General Health

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Buying Life Insurance

Personal life insurance is a way to secure the financial future of your loved ones in the event of your unexpected passing. It helps to cover any financial obligations you leave behind, such as mortgages and loans, and it also provides support for family members. There are many different types of life insurance protection out there, so you will want to do your due diligence when selecting a policy. Here are five common mistakes to watch out for when seeking life insurance. 1. Not shopping around for the best rates Premium costs for life insurance vary from provider to provider, even for plans with similar coverage. Check out several different plans and insurance companies (i.e., AARP Life Insurance, First Horizon, etc.) before making your decision. Otherwise, you may find yourself needlessly overpaying every month for coverage that may not be the best match for your specific health or medical needs. 2. Being unprepared for your medical exam Many insurance companies require you to undergo a physical exam before buying life insurance. Just as with a usual physical, the doctor will check your weight and your blood pressure. But you may also be asked personal questions about your family health history, prescription usage, your activity over the course of the week, lifestyle habits (i.e., smoking), and even your driving record.
Read More
5 Common Symptoms of Narcolepsy
General Health

5 Common Symptoms of Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is characterized as a type of neurological disorder that impacts the area of the brain responsible for wakefulness and sleep control. Narcolepsy occurs in intermittent, uncontrollable “sleep attacks”, which cause extreme fatigue and even cause the narcoleptic to suddenly fall asleep throughout a day, regardless of time or activity level. For instance, a narcoleptic could suffer a sleep attack during a morning work presentation or when driving home from work. Most narcoleptics remain undiagnosed and untreated. However, diagnosis almost always follows up with a prescription for Sunosi, Xyrem, or Provigil to help manage the production of wake and sleep chemicals (chemical hypocretin deficiency). REM sleep can be greatly disturbed and negatively impacted. To be diagnosed as narcoleptic, one of the following warning signs of narcolepsy, ranging from mild to severe, must be present. Only a small portion (less than a third of patients) of narcoleptics have all of the five following symptoms: 1. Cataplexy Cataplexy is described by medical professionals as muscle weakness experienced during wakeful periods. Cataplexy can strike the entire body or specific muscle areas, causing weakness in the knees, sudden loss of grasping so you drop whatever you’re holding, or even entire loss of muscle control that affects the entire body, causing the patient to fall down.
Read More
Breathing Shouldn’t Be Hard: Understanding and Managing Chronic Pulmonary Disorders
General Health

Breathing Shouldn’t Be Hard: Understanding and Managing Chronic Pulmonary Disorders

Breathing is one of those things most people take for granted—until it becomes difficult. For those living with chronic pulmonary conditions, this basic act can be a daily struggle. Breathing techniques can play a crucial role in managing these conditions, helping to ease the strain and improve quality of life. Chronic pulmonary disorders, which include a variety of long-term respiratory conditions, can severely impact lung function and make breathing a challenge. Understanding these disorders is key to early diagnosis and effective management, ensuring that every breath is as easy as possible. 1. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) COPD is a major player in the world of chronic pulmonary disorders, encompassing both emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It is characterized by the obstruction of airflow, which makes normal breathing a Herculean task. Imagine trying to breathe through a straw—that’s what it can feel like for someone with COPD. The key to managing COPD lies in opening up those airways, often with the help of inhalers and bronchodilators, and reducing inflammation with steroids. Pulmonary rehabilitation can also be beneficial, teaching patients how to breathe more efficiently and conserve energy. 2. Asthma Asthma is another common respiratory condition that involves the inflammation and narrowing of airways.
Read More
Navigating Long-Term Disability: Key Conditions and How Legal Experts Secure Your Benefits
General Health

Navigating Long-Term Disability: Key Conditions and How Legal Experts Secure Your Benefits

Are you facing a medical condition that’s affecting your ability to work long-term? You’re not alone. Many people find themselves unable to work due to various disabling conditions, but they often struggle with securing long-term disability (LTD) benefits. Long Term Disability insurance is a safety net designed to replace a portion of your income when a serious health issue prevents you from working. However, the process of obtaining these benefits can be complex and fraught with challenges, including frequent denials, which is where Long Term Disability Appeals come into play. This article will guide you through the conditions that typically qualify for LTD and explain how specialized LTD lawyers can assist in securing the financial support you deserve. 1. musculoskeletal disorders Diseases like arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and chronic back issues can severely impair your physical capabilities, making it tough to fulfill work duties. These conditions are among the most common reasons individuals seek LTD benefits. With the physical strain and pain associated with these disorders, maintaining a regular work schedule becomes increasingly difficult, if not impossible. 2. mental health issues Mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to work capabilities. Disorders such as severe depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD can significantly disrupt your ability to function effectively at work.
Read More
Not Just a Sore Throat: Uncovering the Truth About Eosinophilic Esophagitis
General Health

Not Just a Sore Throat: Uncovering the Truth About Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Have you ever experienced a sore throat that felt like more than just a typical irritation? Perhaps it came with difficulty swallowing or the sensation that food was stuck in your throat? If these symptoms sound familiar and haven’t improved with standard treatments, you might be dealing with something more specific than you think—Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). Eosinophilic Esophagitis Signs can be subtle, but they often point to a chronic issue that requires more than just a quick fix. Eosinophilic Esophagitis Treatment options are available, but understanding the condition is the first step toward relief. 1. Understanding eosinophilic esophagitis Eosinophilic Esophagitis, or EoE, is a chronic immune-mediated condition where a type of white blood cell, the eosinophil, accumulates in the esophagus. This buildup is typically driven by an allergic reaction to certain foods or environmental triggers and leads to inflammation that can damage the esophageal lining. It’s like having an unwanted guest who just won’t leave, causing chaos and discomfort in its wake. 2. Recognizing the symptoms EoE symptoms can vary but often include trouble swallowing, chest pain, persistent sore throat, and reflux that doesn’t respond to medication. These symptoms are frequently mistaken for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but unlike GERD, EoE doesn’t typically respond to antacid treatments.
Read More
Why Water Is Considered The Best Snack For Diabetes
General Health

Why Water Is Considered The Best Snack For Diabetes

When it comes to managing diabetes, choosing the right snacks can be a game-changer. One often overlooked yet incredibly beneficial option is water. Fresh Water Delivery services make it easier than ever to ensure you always have access to this vital resource. The Benefits of Water As A Snack are numerous, especially for those managing diabetes. Let’s dive into why water is considered the best snack for diabetes. 1. Zero calories, zero guilt Water is the ultimate guilt-free snack. Unlike many other snack options, water contains zero calories. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need to manage their weight as part of their diabetes care plan. When you drink water instead of consuming high-calorie snacks, you avoid the blood sugar spikes that can come from sugary or carb-heavy foods. It’s a win-win situation: you stay hydrated and keep your blood sugar levels stable. 2. Hydration is key Proper hydration is crucial for everyone, but it’s especially important for individuals with diabetes. Dehydration can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous. Drinking water helps maintain the balance of bodily fluids, supports kidney function, and aids in the efficient processing of glucose. Fresh Water Delivery services ensure that you always have a steady supply of clean, refreshing water, making it easier to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Read More
7 Causes of AFIB
General Health

7 Causes of AFIB

AFIB, short for atrial fibrillation, is a prevalent heart rhythm disorder that demands attention due to its potential impact on cardiovascular health. If you’re grappling with AFIB symptoms or seeking insights into its causes, this article is your comprehensive guide. We begin with heart diseases, a critical factor in AFIB, and include a deeper look into other contributing factors. Additionally, we’ll highlight the significance of AED machines in emergencies and provide insights into symptom recognition and advanced treatment options. 1. Heart Diseases Heart conditions, notably valvular heart diseases, play a central role in the onset of AFIB. Issues such as mitral valve prolapse, rheumatic heart disease, or aortic stenosis disrupt blood flow and electrical impulses that regulate the heartbeat. These structural and functional changes in the heart predispose individuals to AFIB. For managing such diseases, treatments range from medications to manage symptoms to surgical interventions like valve repair or replacement when necessary. Valve replacement surgery, in particular, involves replacing a damaged valve with a prosthetic one to restore normal heart function and rhythm. 2. Age and Aging Aging is a natural contributor to AFIB as the heart’s electrical system experiences wear and tear over time. As we age, changes in cardiac tissue and a decline in the efficiency of the heart’s electrical pathways increase the likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation.
Read More
5 Foods Linked To Breathing Issues including Asthma and COPD
General Health

5 Foods Linked To Breathing Issues including Asthma and COPD

Allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can all contribute to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and strained breathing. Whether these symptoms are severe and chronic or simply annoying, they commonly involve the immune system reacting to a certain substance in the wrong way. With 70% of the body’s immune system tied to the gut, diet may be a path to relief for children and adults suffering from breathing issues. Common treatments like Spariva, Flovent and Advair are often prescribed to help with airflow. Below are five common foods that might trigger breathing problems: 1. Eggs Egg allergies may trigger breathing problems at any age, though this cause is most commonly seen in young children under five years old. These patients’ immune systems may react to ovalbumin, ovotransferrin, ovomucoid, or any other protein found in egg whites or yolks. Avoiding any food made with egg products could be a solution to your child’s breathing problems. The good news about egg allergies is that they are often outgrown with time. Studies have shown that two thirds of kids with an egg allergy will be able to enjoy eggs without symptoms by the age of five, though patients with a severe allergy may need to wait longer.
Read More
Migraines and Aging: What Women Need to Know
General Health

Migraines and Aging: What Women Need to Know

Migraines can be a debilitating experience, especially as we age. For women over 55, migraines often come with unique challenges influenced by hormonal changes, lifestyle adjustments, and age-related factors. However, understanding the triggers and exploring practical solutions can make a significant difference in managing the condition. Here’s what you need to know about migraines after 55—and steps to take back control of your life. Why Migraines Become More Common After 55 Migraines are often linked to changes in estrogen levels, which can fluctuate dramatically during menopause and post menopause. These hormonal shifts may increase the frequency and severity of migraines for many women. Age-related factors such as increased stress, changes in sleep patterns, or even certain medications for other health conditions can also contribute. Additionally, some women may become more sensitive to common triggers, such as certain foods, dehydration, or even bright lights. Practical Steps to Manage Migraines While migraines can feel overwhelming, there are actionable steps you can take to minimize their impact and potentially prevent them: 1. Identify Your Triggers Keeping a migraine diary can help pinpoint what causes your migraines. Common triggers include: • Stress or anxiety • Certain foods like chocolate, red wine, or aged cheeses • Skipping meals or dehydration • Bright or flashing lights • Strong smells 2.
Read More