“A thing of beauty is a joy forever,” it is rightly said. And the perception of beauty is made possible by the virtue of the eyes. From watching a movie and enjoying the beauty around us to reading an article online, every minute aspect of our lives is governed by our visual faculties. Hence, eye care should be a crucial part of caring for one’s well-being. Here are some common negative habits that affect one’s eyes: Eating unhealthy foods The eyes require vitamins, minerals, zinc, lutein, omega-3, and other essential nutrients. The body absorbs these nutrients through healthy foods. For example, carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, and broccoli are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A and is essential for good eye health. Similarly, omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in fatty fish, are required for good vision. Staring at electronic devices Exposure to white light for long periods is one of the biggest concerns prevalent today, with over 66% nationwide in the country admitting to sleeping with their phones by their side at night. This alarming pattern has several negative consequences, including dry eyes and severe eye strain. Thus, the National Sleep Foundation advises that one should put away electronic devices like mobile phones at least half an hour before going to bed. Ditching sunglasses The harmful UV rays of the sun affect the skin and the eyes. Repeated exposure to these rays can lead to issues like cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and even eye cancer. Thus, keeping one’s eyes covered when stepping out on a sunny day is important. Wearing sunglasses that provide complete protection from UV rays is the best way to cover the eyes. Sleeping with makeup on Constantly sleeping with makeup on can increase one’s susceptibility to eye infections. Individuals who forget to remove their makeup before sleeping may often find a painful lump growing under their eyelids.

There is so much advice floating around us when it comes to skincare. From online trends to old lores, it is important to filter this information and create a skincare routine that will get you closer to achieving your skin goals. However, while searching for the right products and foods, several bad habits can wreak havoc on your skin and slow down your progress. Here are five skincare habits that can worsen skin health: Not wearing sunscreen around the year Many of us assume that the sun isn’t bright or visible enough to affect our skin during the winter months. But, the sun’s UV rays still percolate to the ground and can affect your skin. To prevent photodamage from this exposure, wearing sunscreen all year round is important. Not removing your makeup before bed Washing your face before going to bed is one of the most important steps in your skincare routine. Throughout the day, your skin is exposed to several things, such as makeup, dust, dirt, and grime. Washing your face at the end of the day will help you remove these from the surface of your skin so they do not clog your pores and lead to more breakouts. Exfoliating too much Exfoliating once in a while can help remove dead skin cells and impurities from the skin. However, engaging in this practice too often can strip the skin of its essential oils and cause frequent acne flares. Using comedogenic products Some makeup, skincare, and haircare products contain oils that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. When shopping, look for products labeled ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘won’t clog pores,’ as they can help you avoid breakouts. Additionally, do not share your makeup applicators or brushes with others, as cross-contamination can also lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Drying your skin too much Sometimes, you may feel tempted to dry your skin using products for oily skin or astringents to avoid breakouts.

There is so much advice floating around us when it comes to skincare. From online trends to old lores, it is important to filter this information and create a skincare routine that will get you closer to achieving your skin goals. However, while searching for the right products and foods, several bad habits can wreak havoc on your skin and slow down your progress. Here are five skincare habits that can worsen skin health: Not wearing sunscreen around the year Many of us assume that the sun isn’t bright or visible enough to affect our skin during the winter months. But, the sun’s UV rays still percolate to the ground and can affect your skin. To prevent photodamage from this exposure, wearing sunscreen all year round is important. Not removing your makeup before bed Washing your face before going to bed is one of the most important steps in your skincare routine. Throughout the day, your skin is exposed to several things, such as makeup, dust, dirt, and grime. Washing your face at the end of the day will help you remove these from the surface of your skin so they do not clog your pores and lead to more breakouts. Exfoliating too much Exfoliating once in a while can help remove dead skin cells and impurities from the skin. However, engaging in this practice too often can strip the skin of its essential oils and cause frequent acne flares. Using comedogenic products Some makeup, skincare, and haircare products contain oils that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. When shopping, look for products labeled ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘won’t clog pores,’ as they can help you avoid breakouts. Additionally, do not share your makeup applicators or brushes with others, as cross-contamination can also lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Drying your skin too much Sometimes, you may feel tempted to dry your skin using products for oily skin or astringents to avoid breakouts.

A person’s daily meals are vital for their overall cardiovascular health. Regularly consuming healthy and nutrient-rich foods can help one’s heart and circulatory system function efficiently, providing oxygen and nutrients to all body parts. However, certain foods can worsen symptoms of conditions like atrial fibrillation, where the heart beats too quickly. This article discusses 4 foods to avoid to prevent the development or worsening of such conditions. Read on to learn more. Salted chips Salt is a major cause of heart issues in individuals, so healthcare experts advise people with existing heart conditions to consume it in moderation (only 1,200 milligrams of sodium daily). Salt contains sodium, which increases the blood volume and makes it harder for the heart to pump it. This leads to atrial fibrillation or a worsening of the condition’s symptoms. Salted potato chips contain massive amounts of salt, making them one of the worst foods for those with atrial fibrillation. High sodium levels in the blood can also cause potassium levels to decrease. Potassium is essential for the heart to work properly and efficiently. Therefore, a potassium deficiency can lessen the effectiveness of one’s cardiovascular system. White bread Gluten is just as bad as salt for people with heart conditions. Gluten has been medically known to trigger heart conditions like atrial fibrillation. It raises the inflammation levels in the body, which negatively affects the pacemaker nerves of a person’s heart. This brings about wild fluctuations in heart rates and worsens atrial fibrillation. White bread (and most other kinds of bread, except those distinctively marked “gluten-free”) is loaded to the brim with gluten. Therefore, people with cardiovascular problems are discouraged from consuming white bread, pasta, cereal, and other gluten-filled foods. Coffee Although caffeine-rich foods stimulate one’s body, they are also known to drastically increase heart rate and worsen blood pressure issues.

The intake of excessive sugar is associated with multiple health complications, including cancer. The cells in the body, including cancerous ones, use glucose to survive, grow and spread. Glucose may not be directly responsible for the onset of cancer. However, having sugar in excessive amounts may increase the risk of the disease and worsen its symptoms. So, here is a look at how high sugar intake can worsen common symptoms of cancer: Fatigue Sugar can help temporarily boost energy levels. The pancreas produces enough insulin to break down food into simple sugars, which are then utilized by cells to stay energized. However, sometimes the pancreas may not be able to produce enough insulin, which could lead to excessive sugar in the blood, causing fatigue and weakness. Further, if one is at risk for cancer or is affected by the disease, the body needs more energy to fight the abnormal cells. So, fatigue is a common sign of cancer that can worsen when dealing with high blood sugar. Frequent infections If one is dealing with cancer, the weakened immune system is already prone to frequent infections. The immune system requires balanced nutrition, such as healthy amounts of minerals and vitamins, to thrive and fight diseases, including cancer. However, when cancerous cells spread, they may prevent the immune system from absorbing these nutrients. Further, sugar encourages the production of inflammatory proteins, making one more susceptible to illnesses. Frequent pain One may usually experience pain for reasons including strenuous exercises or injuries. However, the symptom is an early sign of cancer. Cancerous developments may often press against the nerves across areas of the body, which could lead to pain. Further, sugar can worsen the pain by triggering inflammation. So, when experiencing persistent pain, one should consult a doctor to determine the underlying causes and if limiting sugar intake might be the solution.

The kidneys are responsible for filtering and flushing out unhealthy liquid waste from the body. However, kidney cancer—a relatively uncommon but serious disease that might often go undetected until it reaches advanced stages—could disrupt this cleansing process. It could also lead to more severe complications. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of kidney cancer is vital for early diagnosis and treatment. This post explores the most common signs of kidney cancer. Blood in the urine (hematuria) While hematuria may have various causes, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or injury, it should never be ignored. Even a small amount of blood in the urine warrants immediate expert attention. Persistent back pain Persistent or chronic back pain, particularly in the area around the kidneys, could be a warning sign of kidney cancer. This pain may be dull and aching, sometimes mistaken for muscle strain. If back pain persists despite rest and usual treatments, one must consult a healthcare provider for evaluation. Fatigue Kidney cancer may lead to constant and debilitating fatigue. This persistent tiredness often interferes with one’s daily activities and might be an early indicator of the disease. A loss of appetite A sudden or persistent loss of appetite is another sign. This, coupled with a sudden reduction in fitness levels, may point toward an underlying health issue that requires attention. Swelling in the abdomen or lower extremities Kidney cancer may sometimes cause swelling in the abdomen or lower extremities. This swelling, known as edema, occurs when excess fluid accumulates in tissues. It could be uncomfortable and is often associated with advanced kidney cancer. Palpable mass Patients may feel a palpable mass or lump near the abdomen. This mass may represent the tumor itself or an enlargement of the affected kidney. Any unexplained lumps or masses should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the motor neurons in the spinal cord and brain. This condition requires early diagnosis for effective management and treatment. Therefore, identifying the initial signs of ALS can make a substantial difference for one with ALS. Here are some of the early warning signs of ALS that individuals, along with their caregivers and healthcare providers, should remain vigilant about. Muscle twitches and cramps ALS often presents with persistent muscle twitches, which are medically termed fasciculations. These involuntary contractions manifest as visible or palpable ripples beneath the skin’s surface. Additionally, individuals may experience muscle cramps, which are sudden and painful contractions occurring even at rest. These twitches and cramps can be caused due to various reasons. However, if these are persistent and prolonged occurrences, one should immediately consult a health practitioner. Increased muscle stiffness and spasticity In some cases, an individual may experience muscle stiffness and spasticity. This can lead to a sensation of tightness or rigidity in the affected muscles. In addition, this may result in involuntary contractions or spasms, which can be uncomfortable or painful. This symptom can further contribute to mobility difficulties and may necessitate specialized care and interventions. Impaired fine motor skills ALS can also significantly impact fine motor skills, which are required for tasks that necessitate precise coordination. Activities like writing or typing may become difficult. Also, individuals may have a decline in their ability to perform delicate tasks that were once effortless. Muscle weakness and fatigue Another common early sign of ALS is the onset of muscle weakness and persistent fatigue. Initially, individuals may notice difficulty completing tasks that require strength, like lifting or carrying objects. Everyday activities such as buttoning shirts or gripping utensils may become increasingly challenging.

Loneliness is a common and deeply human experience that can affect anyone at various stages of life. It is also a complex emotion often arising from social isolation or the feeling of being disconnected from other people, among other factors. The good news is that there are practical ways to deal with such feelings while also fostering meaningful connections. So, here are a few ways that can help overcome loneliness: Engage in prayer Prayer can involve meditation, reflection, or quiet contemplation, all of which help by offering hope and faith in a better future. Additionally, engaging in this practice can help one find inner peace, possibly reducing feelings of loneliness. Spend time outdoors Connecting with nature can be a rejuvenating activity. Whether it is a leisurely stroll in the park, a hike through the woods, or enjoying the sun, stepping outside can help one experience a sense of peace and a connection to their surroundings. Volunteer for a cause Giving back to the community can be a fulfilling way to not just help but also connect with others. This way, volunteering provides a sense of purpose and belonging. Whether it is lending a hand at a local shelter or hospital, reading to children, or participating in neighborhood clean-up drives and other community initiatives, volunteering is a great way to make new connections. Try yoga or group fitness classes Exercise is known to boost physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here, joining a yoga class or a group fitness session offers an opportunity to improve health and also meet new people in the process. These group settings can create a supportive environment where one can connect with others through shared experiences and fitness goals. Read books or listen to podcasts Hobbies like reading a book or listening to podcasts can be intellectually stimulating and emotionally fulfilling experiences, activating dormant parts of the brain.

Our lungs are susceptible to various health complications, including mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) disease. MAC is a group of bacteria that usually triggers infections in people with weaker immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS and other underlying lung conditions. However, it is also seen in healthier individuals. Various symptoms of MAC lung disease could help diagnose it early and seek appropriate treatment. Here are eight warning signs of the condition. Pain in the chest Someone who develops pain in their chest should see an expert and determine the underlying cause. The pain could result from MAC lung disease and may require immediate treatment. The symptom’s intensity may range from mild to severe and worsen by deep breathing or coughing. Clubbing of the fingers Another warning sign of MAC lung disease is the clubbing of one’s fingers. The individual may find their fingers becoming enlarged and rounded at the tips. This symptom might be associated with the advanced stages of MAC lung disease and could indicate lower oxygen levels in the blood. Shortness of breath Among the first noticeable signs of MAC lung disease is shortness of breath, which worsens during physical activity. It is usually triggered by lung tissue damage. Persistent cough People who develop a cough that does not go away for several months should get tested for this lung disease. The cough may initially be dry but worsen over time, producing mucus or phlegm. Fever Fever and chills can result from several factors, including a viral infection. However, one might also develop these signs due to MAC lung disease. Fatigue One can get fatigued due to multiple factors, such as age and excessive exercise, which could make daily activities more tedious. However, fatigue could also occur due to MAC lung disease, so one must consult an expert immediately.

The key to a healthy relationship is always open, clear communication, so it is important for both partners to discuss their fears and address personal issues. Skipping these discussions can lead to bigger problems in the long run. One of the problems is infidelity, often cited among the top reasons for ending relationships. While one must only trust proof or admission to determine if a partner is cheating, a few surprising signs may indicate infidelity. 1. Becoming secretive about their phone It is common knowledge that a partner’s phone can provide evidence of an affair, if any. So, they often become secretive while using their phone as soon as they start seeing someone else. They may also hide their phone. They may also become anxious when it comes to sharing phone passwords, texts, or emails. 2. Investing less time into the relationship Being gone more often is another classic sign of an affair. The partner may suddenly seem to have much more work late at night, frequent weekend work calls, or business trips. Here, they could be creating time for someone else. Even if they are not cheating, spending less time together can be a sign of a problem in the relationship. 3. Becoming emotionally distant Emotional honesty is the foundation of a strong relationship. So, if a partner starts disconnecting emotionally, it can be a sign of trouble. But often, work-related problems, health issues, and stress can also make them become emotionally distant. So, it is important that one initiates a conversation with their partner to determine the underlying reason for the decline in emotional affection. 4. Confiding less When having an affair, one may stop talking about what they are thinking or feeling with their partner. Here, they could have begun sharing their private thoughts with another person and, consequently, have stopped confiding in their partner.

Shopping addiction is a compulsive behavioral condition marked by an overwhelming desire to buy things. It is also known as oniomania, which can have a considerable impact on one’s finances, ultimately causing emotional distress. There are ways one can cope with shopping addiction, from therapy to financial counseling. Still, before one can find help, one needs to understand the signs of a shopping addict and how they differ from a shopper who enjoys occasional retail therapy. Signs of shopping addiction Emotional reactions to the activity Frequently, compulsive individuals with unhealthy shopping tendencies experience nearly extreme emotions while engaging in this particular activity. For example, they may go on a shopping spree to beat the feelings of depression, anxiety, or stress, usually making more impulsive purchases. After buying the items, they experience relief or euphoria, which is soon followed by deep regret or shame. Eventually, these emotions cause problems with their relationships and finances. Inability to let go Shopping addicts are unable to treat the activity as a casual outing or stress buster. They find it difficult to roam around a mall or a shopping center for leisure and get consumed by the thoughts of shopping and money. They also find it challenging to let go of the constant urge to make purchases, which can even worsen anxiety or compulsiveness. Loss of control and lying Compulsive shoppers may find it difficult to stop thinking about what they want to buy and lose control when they find items of interest. They may lie about or hide their purchases and get things they don’t need. Inability to pay off debts Compulsive shoppers often find it hard to pay off their debts. They may open new credit cards without paying off the existing balances, thus creating a vicious cycle of growing debt, constant financial instability, and distrust among lenders.

Pain in the legs and feet is a common health issue most people face today. This discomfort can arise from various factors like excessive blood sugar levels, resulting in nerve damage or leg cramps. Individuals looking for ways to manage the pain themselves usually opt for foot massagers. However, despite its simplicity, people can make various mistakes while using this massaging device that may worsen their discomfort. Here are five such errors to avoid. Applying excessive pressure Some people believe that pressing the massager in the muscles harder will improve the effectiveness. However, excessive pressure could lead to discomfort or injuries. Therefore, one must ensure they use the foot massager gently and apply steady pressure that is comfortable and does not trigger pain. Failing to adjust speed Most electric foot massagers come with different speed settings. However, users may not always experiment with the speeds and use only one preset. One should adjust the speed based on the area of the foot being massaged and the level of muscle tension. Some areas might benefit from slower speeds, while others from fast preset. Not reading the instruction manual Most foot massagers come with an instruction manual. Not reading this document could result in overlooking crucial aspects of using the device, including the charging time and type of power input. The manual may also offer information associated with device safety that could help avoid accidents. Keeping liquids near the massager When using the massager, one must avoid keeping liquids – such as water or tea – next to the device. If spillage occurs, it could enter the electrical components of the massager and damage it. Users who are affected by water may also put themselves at risk of electric hazards. One could also look for foot massagers that are water-resistant or waterproof to be on the safer side of things.