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.

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.

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.

The end of a woman’s menstrual cycle, known as menopause, typically occurs in the late 40s or 50s. It is a natural biological process that marks the end of the reproductive years and is typically diagnosed when a woman has gone through 12 consecutive months without having a menstrual period. Women may experience various uncomfortable signs and symptoms leading up to this period, making daily activities challenging. Here are some indications of menopause. Anxiety The menopause period brings a lot of hormonal changes that can have physical and psychological effects. Commonly experienced feelings include stress, anxiety, and depression. Seeking the help of a therapist is usually recommended to manage these emotional changes. Additionally, joining a support group can benefit those going through these changes. Difficulty sleeping It can be challenging for women experiencing menopause symptoms, especially when getting enough sleep. Insomnia is a significant concern for many women due to the various symptoms they may be experiencing, such as anxiety, hot flashes, and night sweats. While treatments are available to help with sleep, it’s important to note that these symptoms can persist for years and won’t go away quickly. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can help manage these symptoms. Hot flashes It can be frustrating and uncomfortable to experience sudden changes in body temperature, especially during menopause. Hot flashes are a common symptom that can occur at any time of day or night, leading to night sweats and feelings of anxiety. These hot flashes often affect the neck, face, and chest and can cause the skin to become red and sweaty. Heavy menstrual bleeding The transition to menopause, known as perimenopause, can bring about a range of symptoms and changes in a woman’s body. While not all women will experience the same symptoms, the intensity and duration of these symptoms can vary widely.

With the fast-paced world, getting a good night’s sleep is becoming harder. We often attribute sleep loss to external factors like stress or technology, but sugar can also be a culprit that we tend to overlook. Despite its seemingly harmless nature, sugar can negatively affect our sleep patterns and overall health. Many people are unaware of sugar’s harmful impact on sleep and its correlation with sleep disturbances and constipation. Here’s everything you should know. Disrupts the sleep-wake cycle Consuming excessive sugar close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle. Sugar stimulates insulin release, leading to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. This spike in energy can make it difficult for your body to relax and enter the sleep phase, causing insomnia or fragmented sleep. Promotes restless sleep Sugar can contribute to restless sleep by causing blood sugar fluctuations throughout the night. As your blood sugar levels rise and fall, your body may experience sudden awakenings or interruptions in sleep. These disruptions can leave you tired and groggy in the morning, even after a seemingly long night of rest. Increased risk of sleep disorders Studies have shown that high-sugar foods are associated with an increased risk of sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring. Excess sugar consumption can lead to body mass gain, a common risk factor for sleep disorders. Furthermore, sugar-induced inflammation can contribute to airway inflammation and breathing difficulties during sleep. Disrupts digestive function Too much sugar can negatively affect your digestive system, causing constipation and other bowel issues. This is because sugar can slow down the movement of food in your digestive tract, leading to it lingering in your intestines. As a result, your sleep quality may also be impacted as discomfort, and the need to use the bathroom can disrupt your sleep. Imbalanced gut microbiome Consuming too much sugar can harm the helpful bacteria in your digestive system, known as the gut microbiome.

When packing for a vacation, one is likely to load up on sunscreens and other skin essentials while overlooking the effects of extreme weather and sunlight on the eyes. Leaving the eyes unprotected can increase the risk of retinopathy, photokeratitis, and corneal thickness, which can lead to vision-related complications. So, one should be prepared for extreme weather conditions, dry air, and excessive sun exposure. Here are some tips for protecting the eyes while traveling: Avoid contact lenses for long trips Although it might feel convenient to wear contact lenses while traveling, most healthcare professionals suggest otherwise. This is because longer trips—either by car or airplane—come with constant temperature fluctuations and low humidity, irritating the eyes. Moreover, when traveling long distances, one may fall asleep without removing the lenses, which is a huge risk factor for eye infections. So, as an alternative, one must stick to eyeglasses on long trips. Additionally, on a road trip, the air vents should be directed away from the eyes to keep the glasses from fogging up. Pack eye care essentials If prone to allergies due to changes in weather, altitude, or air quality, one needs to pack allergy treatment options before leaving for a trip. Here, allergy-specific eye drops can come in handy. Further, when dirt or dust enters the eyes, many may choose to wash it away with tap water. However, tap water in public washrooms in some parts of the world could have irritating impurities and minerals. So, one should use sterile eye washes to get rid of the irritants. In addition, one must pack hats, top-notch sunglasses, and swimming goggles to protect the eyes. Manage eye strain One of the most common issues while traveling is eye strain, usually brought on by increased screen time and poor lighting. Although the discomfort can seem harmless, it can make the eyes susceptible to infections.

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.

Bad breath can be an embarrassing limitation to those suffering from it. Individuals with bad breath or halitosis tend to avoid social interactions and have communication issues as they hesitate to speak freely. While there are measures like chewing sugarless gum to get rid of this oral health condition temporarily, there are some foods that can be incorporated into one’s daily meals to help with the difficulty. Keep reading to learn more about them. Pineapple The enzyme bromelain in pineapple can help break down proteins in the mouth and reduce the buildup of odor-causing bacteria. Ginger Ginger has natural antimicrobial properties and a strong, pleasant aroma that can help mask bad breath. Cinnamon Cinnamon contains essential oils with antibacterial properties that can help combat oral bacteria and freshen one’s breath. Cranberries Cranberries contain compounds that can help prevent the growth of bacteria in the mouth. Celery and carrots These crunchy vegetables stimulate saliva production and help clean the teeth, reducing the buildup of bacteria and food particles. Mint Mint leaves and mint-based products like sugarless gum can provide a refreshing and pleasant aroma, temporarily masking bad breath. Yogurt Plain yogurt with live probiotics can help balance the oral microbiome, reducing the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Herbs and spices Parsley, mint, and cardamom are herbs and spices that can help freshen breath due to their natural aromatic properties. Citrus fruits Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons can stimulate saliva production and mask bad breath temporarily. Other options Water Staying hydrated is vital to maintaining a moist environment in your mouth, which can help reduce bad breath. Drinking water can also rinse away food particles and bacteria. Green tea Green tea contains compounds that can restrict the growth of oral bacteria and reduce the production of sulfur compounds. Sugarless gum or sugarless mints The ingredients in sugarless mints can stimulate saliva production.

Today, achieving truly restful sleep can call for making considerable changes to the fast-paced, task-heavy daily routine to help one relax at bedtime. A healthy sleep cycle can offer a host of health benefits, helping the body recover and regain lost energy. So, following a strict schedule and focusing on improving the quality of sleep is important here. To help one get started, here are a few practical tips to consider: Follow a consistent sleep schedule One of the cornerstone habits for a healthy sleep cycle is maintaining a regular schedule. This involves going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Consistency reinforces the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed. Here, it is also important to be realistic, so one should choose a bedtime that allows for at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep. Create a tranquil sleep environment The ambiance of the bedroom plays a significant role in promoting healthy sleep. So, one should ensure the room is cool, quiet, and dark to facilitate relaxation. Investing in comfortable bedding and a supportive mattress can also make a difference. Additionally, one should consider minimizing sources of disturbance, such as electronic devices and excessive light, to be able to relax. Establish a calming pre-sleep routine A series of calming activities before bed signal to the body that it is time to wind down. This routine can include activities like reading a book, taking a warm bath, or gentle stretching exercises. Here, one should experiment with different activities to discover what makes them relax. Check food and drink intake A light, balanced dinner a few hours before sleeping is preferable to heavy meals. Sleep-promoting foods, like warm milk or herbal teas, can encourage a more restful transition into sleep.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy, or DMD, is a rare, progressive genetic disorder that affects the muscles, primarily in males. DMD is characterized by the weakening and degeneration of muscle tissue, leading to significant mobility issues and, in many cases, a shortened lifespan. While a cure for the condition is yet to be determined, ongoing research seeks to improve management and treatment options. Find below the signs of DMD and ways to diagnose the disease. Signs and symptoms DMD is a condition that typically presents early in childhood. The signs and symptoms of DMD may vary in severity but generally become more pronounced as the child grows older. Some common indicators include: Muscle weakness One of the earliest signs is weakness in the muscles of the pelvis and upper legs. Children with DMD may struggle to get up from the floor or climb stairs. Delayed motor milestones Affected children often experience delays in reaching motor milestones, like sitting up, crawling, and walking. Some may never achieve independent walking. Waddling gait As the disease progresses, the weakening of leg muscles causes a waddling gait that makes walking more challenging. Frequent falls Children with DMD may experience frequent falls due to muscle weakness, making activities that require balance and coordination difficult. Enlarged calves Another distinctive feature of DMD is calf muscle enlargement, caused by the replacement of muscle tissue with fat and connective tissue. Contractures Muscle contractures, where joints become stiff and less flexible, are common. These may affect the ability to move arms and legs freely. Respiratory issues As DMD progresses, respiratory muscles weaken, leading to breathing difficulties. This could result in the need for ventilatory support. Heart complications DMD may affect the heart, causing cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) and potentially leading to heart failure. Diagnosis Diagnosing DMD typically involves a combination of healthcare evaluations, genetic testing, and muscle biopsies.

Sickle cell crisis, also called vaso-occlusive crisis, is a painful and potentially life-threatening episode that occurs in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). This type of blood disorder is caused by an abnormal genetic mutation. The condition affects one’s hemoglobin and turns the shape of red blood cells into sickle-shaped cells, leading to restricted blood flow, anemia, and increased risk of infections. Understanding the warning signs of sickle cell crisis is important. Intense pain and headaches Sickle cell crisis brings excruciating pain, often accompanied by headache or dizziness. Individuals experiencing a crisis describe the pain as sharp, throbbing, and unbearable. This pain can occur anywhere in the body but is most commonly felt in the bones and joints. It can be so severe that it interferes with daily activities, making it impossible to ignore. Muscular weakness and swelling Muscular or general weakness can manifest in various parts of the body during sickle cell crisis, making it difficult to move some parts of one’s body or perform everyday tasks. It can also be due to swelling of hands and feet or localized swelling that can be tender or painful to the touch. These symptoms mainly occur because the sickle cells get stuck in the small vessels and block blood flow. Breathing problems Sickle cell crises can also affect the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, chest pain when breathing, or both. When sickle cells block blood vessels in the lungs, it can result in acute chest syndrome, a medical emergency. Shortness of breath should never be ignored and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional immediately. Tiredness Fatigue is a common symptom of many health conditions, but it can become alarming when experienced during a sickle cell crisis. Anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, is a common complication of sickle cell disease.

High blood pressure is one of the most prevalent health problems globally. While it is a lifelong disorder with no cure, high blood pressure can be managed through treatments and lifestyle modifications. One of the crucial aspects of managing it is eating the right foods and avoiding others. Fresh fruits, green vegetables, and whole foods are often recommended to maintain safe blood pressure levels. Equally importantly, one must avoid fried and fatty foods, among others. 5 foods to avoid that increase blood pressure Cold cuts and cured meats Salami, sausages, pepperoni, bacon, prosciutto, and hot dogs contain a high amount of sodium. The high level of sodium is necessary to preserve the meat. It also gives the cold cuts and cured meats their flavor. However, for those with high blood pressure, eating these meats on a regular basis will worsen the symptoms. Packaged sandwiches Sandwiches can be healthy meal options. However, the nutritional value and whether they are safe for high blood pressure or hypertension greatly depends on the ingredients used. Most packaged sandwiches use white flour-based bread, deli meats, cheese, pickles, and other condiments. All of these make these sandwiches high in sodium, which is bad for managing high blood pressure. Instead, homemade sandwiches with fresh vegetables, whole-grain bread, and non-sodium-rich ingredients are a better alternative. Frozen pizza This may seem like a quick and convenient alternative to cooking a meal. However, frozen pizzas can potentially make hypertension worse, especially when consumed on a regular basis. This is because they have high amounts of saturated fats, sodium, and sugar. All of these can increase blood pressure levels and aggravate symptoms. Sweetened beverages Packaged sweetened beverages contain huge amounts of artificial sweeteners and sugars. From packaged fruit juices, milk shakes, to carbonated beverages, all of these can do more harm than good in the case of hypertension.