Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that can affect individuals of all ages. In babies, atopic dermatitis is characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. It is a common skin condition in infants, and it typically begins in the first few months of life. Managing atopic dermatitis in infants might be challenging, but early intervention with appropriate treatment is crucial to alleviate discomfort and prevent complications. Here are some first-line treatment options for atopic dermatitis in infants. Atopic dermatitis in infants Atopic dermatitis causes red, itchy, and inflamed skin, typically occurring on the face, scalp, neck, and extremities. In infants, the condition often appears as red, scaly patches on the cheeks, chin, and forehead, and may sometimes extend to other parts of the body. While its exact cause remains unclear, genetics, environmental factors, and impaired skin barrier function are believed to contribute to its development. First line of treatment Gentle Bathing Use lukewarm water and not hot water for bathing, and limit baths to 5-10 minutes. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap or cleanser designed for sensitive skin. Pat Dry Use a soft towel to gently pat the baby’s skin dry, after a bathing. Rubbing can irritate the skin. Cotton Clothing Dress the baby in loose-fitting, breathable, and natural-fiber clothing, such as cotton, to reduce skin irritation. Avoid Scratching Keep the baby’s nails short to minimize damage from scratching. Use mittens or cotton socks on their hands to prevent scratching during sleep. Emollients and moisturizers The foundation of atopic dermatitis management in infants involves maintaining skin hydration. Parents and caregivers are advised to apply emollients and moisturizers liberally and frequently. Products specifically designed for sensitive infant skin, such as fragrance-free creams or ointments, are recommended. These help lock in moisture and repair the compromised skin barrier.

Various odors and fragrances surround us, but not everyone is tolerant of them. Especially for people with migraine, different strong smells can act as a trigger because of smell sensitivity. Inhalation of these strong odors can lead to dizziness, headaches and other health issues. One can also look for ways to prevent a migraine attack due to such odors. Here are some odors that can be toxic to people with migraine: Car exhaust Car exhausts are among the leading cause of environmental pollution. The gas leak from car exhausts is therefore understandably harmful. The leak has a very strong odor and can be the reason for high CO or carbon monoxide gas buildup over time. These fumes often cause nausea, shortness of breath, headaches, and dizziness. Cleaning supplies Cleaning supplies often contain Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs. These emit gases that may or may not have a strong smell. Exposure to these gases can cause headaches and respiratory issues. They are considered toxic and are often the reason for migraines. Additionally, VOCs can also turn out to be carcinogenic for some people. Therefore, it is essential to use VOC-free cleaning products. Oil-based paints Oil-based paints also contain VOCs. These solvents get released into the environment once the paint is applied on any surface. These VOCs find their way into the body on inhalation, leading to dizziness and migraine. Alternatively, opting for odor-free or water-based paints is also a suitable option. Gasoline Gasoline emits potent vapors that hold the ability to dilate blood vessels. The unnecessary change in the state of blood vessels combined with the strong odors can lead to debilitating migraines and a heavy head. Gasoline generally contains more than 100 chemicals that make it toxic for anyone inhaling it. Using nose plugs is a safe way forward for people who work at places near gasoline or petroleum tanks.

Fleas and ticks are probably the most annoying things you have to deal with as a pet parent. You might have tried it all, and everything must have worked fine. But the moment you grow lenient, they are back. Ticks do not go away permanently, so you have to be vigilant round the clock. One way to deal with these parasites is to grow plants that repel ticks in outdoor and indoor gardens. Sage Many use sage leaves to enhance the taste of food. Interestingly, the plant is also great at repelling ticks and protecting your pets. So, consider growing sage indoors to prevent infestations. Lemongrass As the name suggests, this plant smells like lemon. While the fragrance may be appealing to you, it repels parasites. Many prefer growing this plant to repel ticks as it requires little maintenance. Lavender While this plant is known for its calming properties, insects would beg to disagree. Lavender is an effective repellent against moths, mosquitoes, and ever-annoying ticks. Its color, as well as its scent, are unappealing to the blood-feeding parasites. Garlic Ticks find the scent of garlic abhorrent. So, if you are looking up for plants that repel ticks from your household, grow this one in your outdoor and indoor garden. Rosemary This herb has a long list of benefits, and repelling parasites is one worth mentioning. Brushing the leaves of the rosemary plant releases fragrance and oil, which protects against ticks, fleas, mosquitoes, and other pests. Your pet may need treatment in case of a severe tick or flea infestation. Here are a few options: Simparica Trio These are available as chewables to be used once a month. The effect of a single chewable can last for weeks, protecting against fleas, ticks, and heartworms. FRONTLINE Plus It is a topical solution to be applied to the pet’s skin.

Get ready for the joyful sound of jingling bells and the sweet smell of pie filling the air with Christmas right around the corner. It is also time to start wrapping presents and placing them under beautifully decorated trees. To honor this customary practice, one should choose the right gifts by considering the recipient’s preferences and balancing visual appeal with functionality. Further, one can avoid the following gifts that are most likely to be returned: 1. Scented candles Although scented candles are among the most popular Christmas gifts, one may end up choosing a scented candle with an extremely strong fragrance or a specific one that the recipient does not like. This makes the gift less appealing to the receiver. Here, gifting a scent diffuser could be a better move, as one can let the receiver pick fragrances to add to the diffuser. 2. Glassware and crockery An expensive crockery or glass set has long been the go-to Christmas present, as it perfectly integrates esthetics and utility. However, having become so overwhelmingly popular gifts, glassware and crockery sets are usually either returned or regifted. Alternatively, they may end up on the recipient’s kitchen shelf for years on end without being used even once. 3. DVDs and DVD players At one point, DVDs and DVD players were perhaps the best gifts one could find. But over the years, online streaming platforms have taken over, making DVDs redundant. So, gifting someone a DVD or DVD player today may not be the best idea. 4. Shoes The perfect pair of shoes is an indispensable accessory to complete the look. However, knowing the recipient’s exact shoe size is crucial for ensuring that the gift is not returned or exchanged. Moreover, it is not always possible for one to know exactly what the receiver likes in terms of the design and type of shoes.

Chronic bronchitis is caused by the long-term inflammation of the airways. This causes excess mucus production. In addition, there is a higher risk of lung infection. Those who have chronic bronchitis are also diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD, or chronic bronchitis, often occurs through periodic flare-ups. A chronic bronchitis flare-up or exacerbation is a sudden worsening of symptoms. These flare-ups are generally preceded by the following signs: Signs of chronic bronchitis flare-up The signs of a flare-up can last for two days. In some cases, it lasts for several days. The intensity of the symptoms is usually more severe than usual. A person may have to go to the emergency room if they experience a full-blown exacerbation during a flare-up. Some of the common signs that indicate an incomplete flare-up include the following: Wheezing and noisy breathing sounds Coughing accompanied by more mucus than usual Change in the color of mucus Trouble catching breath Discomfort in the chest Tiredness or fatigue Some other signs include the following: Unable to take deep breaths Trouble sleeping Headaches after waking up Stomach pain Frequent bouts of anxiousness Swollen ankles and legs Drowsiness Unable to think clearly Frequent mood changes Pale skin Changes in nail and lip color Difficulty talking Tips to manage signs of a chronic bronchitis flare-up Here are a few tips to manage chronic bronchitis symptoms: One should not panic as soon as they start experiencing the first symptom. This can help prevent further worsening of the symptoms. Oral treatment options given by the doctor for flare-ups must be taken as directed. An effective way to slow down breathing and save energy is to use the technique of pursed lip breathing. This will help to relax as well. If the symptoms do not improve after 48 hours or worsen further, seeking immediate medical care or going to the emergency room is crucial.

Before the advent of texting, emailing, or even calling, people used flowers to communicate. The language of flowers is known as floriography and was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. Even though communication has evolved in recent years, here’s how you can use flowers to say something special to your loved ones or to bring them a personalized gift. Check out this guide to find what your birth month flower type reveals about you: January: Carnation and Snowdrop Carnations are distinctly strong to bloom in winter and symbolize admiration, love, and distinction. Snowdrops are symbolic of hope and rebirth. February: Violet and Primrose While many associate roses with the month of love, violets, and primrose are the birth flowers for February. Violets symbolize modesty, faithfulness, and virtue, whereas primrose symbolizes young love. March: Daffodil Daffodils represent spring’s first month, symbolize unparalleled love, and are also associated with new beginnings, prosperity, and faithfulness. April: Daisy and Sweet Pea Daisies symbolize purity, true love, and innocence and are great for showcasing undying love. Sweet peas symbolize blissful pleasure and are known for their sweet fragrance. May: Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn Lily of the Valley signifies sweetness, humility, and motherhood and are great presents for your mother on her birthday or Mother’s Day. The hawthorn flower is a symbol of purity and uniqueness. June: Rose and Honeysuckle The beauty and sweetness of the rose can be used to symbolize a myriad of emotions, from passionate love (red) to friendship (yellow). Honeysuckles symbolize pure happiness and denote messages of sweetness and affection. July: Larkspur and Water Lily Larkspur generally symbolizes positivity and love, while water lilies represent purity and rebirth. August: Gladiolus and Poppy The gladiolus (or sword lily) is a symbol of strength, character, remembrance, and sincerity, and the poppy, too, represents remembrance and imagination.

As the warmer months approach, many pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for more time spent outdoors. However, with the great outdoors come unwanted pests like fleas and ticks, which can be a nuisance for humans and their furry companions. While chemical-based repellents are commonly used, there are natural alternatives that can help keep these pests at bay. One such alternative is using plants that naturally repel fleas and ticks. 1. Lavender Lavender is a natural flea and tick repellent. These insects are repelled by the strong fragrance of lavender, making them an excellent choice for gardens or indoor pots. Planting lavender in one’s garden or outdoor sitting areas can deter fleas and ticks from bothering inhabitants and their pets. 2. Rosemary This versatile herb acts as a natural pest repellent; its aromatic scent acts as a deterrent to fleas and ticks. One can plant rosemary in their garden or create a natural spray by boiling rosemary leaves and using the infused water as a pet-friendly flea and tick repellent. 3. Mint Like peppermint and spearmint, mint plants emit a strong scent that fleas and ticks find unpleasant. Planting mint around one’s garden or patio can help keep these pesky insects away. 4. Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemums contain a natural insect repellent called pyrethrin, commonly used in commercial flea and tick products. Planting chrysanthemums in one’s garden can help keep these pests away from outdoor spaces. 5. Lemongrass Lemongrass is another natural plant that repels fleas and ticks effectively. Its lemony scent is pleasant for humans but not for these insects. Planting lemongrass around the yard or patio can create a natural barrier against fleas and ticks. 6. Eucalyptus Eucalyptus trees and plants contain essential oils known to repel fleas and ticks. One can plant eucalyptus trees or shrubs in one’s yard to help keep these pests away.

Taking care of the body and maintaining proper hygiene during the menstrual period is incredibly important. This also includes using safe and hygienic menstrual products, which are extremely affordable. However, one can make a few mistakes while on their period, which can cause issues in the long run. Read this article to learn more about menstrual products and tips on how to avoid some common mistakes while on a period. Common mistakes made during the menstrual period Using scented tampons or pads In most cases, usage of scented menstrual products can lead to skin irritation and even cause burn-like symptoms. Hence, healthcare professionals recommend using fragrance-free products without any additives, such as aloe vera. Furthermore, one can also use organic products that contain no chemicals. Not keeping track of the period The menstrual cycle is often one of the markers of overall health. In fact, for some health conditions such as diabetes, celiac disease, and thyroid dysfunction, the menstrual cycle can be an indicator of the condition. Furthermore, irregular periods in women can also indicate certain forms of cancer. Hence, one can use period and ovulation tracking apps to ease the process of period tracking and maintain overall health. Additionally, seeking medical advice is suggested in case of a missed period. Not changing pads/tampons regularly The longer one wears the tampons or pads, the more bacteria grow. Used tampons and pads are the perfect environment for bacteria. This includes Staphylococcus aureus, which releases toxins and may cause toxic shock syndrome. Hence, healthcare professionals suggest changing pads and tampons every 4 to 8 hours. However, if one needs longer-lasting protection, one can use menstrual cups for up to 12 hours. Not getting enough sleep Most women experience severe cramping, bloating, restlessness, and even hormone-induced insomnia during the menstrual period. However, sleep is extremely important during this time, as without enough sleep, the body may become inflamed and stressed, which can, in turn, worsen symptoms of premenstrual syndrome ( PMS) and menstrual cramps.

Skin disease can be caused due to a variety of reasons, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, genetic factors, contact with irritants, or even due to a weak immune system. Some skin diseases are mild, while others can cause extreme discomfort and distress and may require specialized treatment. If you are suffering from a skin disease, here are a few things you should avoid to control the spread and intensity of the disease. Avoid using strong soaps, detergents, and shampoos Skin disease can worsen when you wash your body or clothes with strongly scented soaps, detergents, and shampoos. Soaps made with chemicals remove the natural oils from the skin and make it dry and itchy. Fragrance-free, mild soaps and detergents are best, and rinse your body and clothes well. For severe skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis, it is best to avoid using soap unless it is essential. Avoid hot water Extreme temperatures can inflame the skin and trigger a flare-up in people with skin conditions. To soothe your skin, use lukewarm or cool water for a shower. Hot water will dry the skin and cause redness, itching, and sometimes peeling. Avoid excessive sunlight Having sufficient exposure to sunlight is essential, but it can be harmful to people with skin diseases. Sunburns can cause inflammation to your skin and can lead to flare-ups. People with skin diseases should keep sun exposure to a minimum. Use mineral sunscreen to block out the burning rays. Avoid stress Stress can make skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis worse. When stressed, your body’s hormones cause inflammation, further irritating your skin. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation. Also, ensure you get enough sleep to reduce stress. Avoid all types of allergens Pet dander, dust, and mold can come into direct contact with the skin and cause flare-ups.

A urinary tract is made up of bladder, kidneys, ureters and the urethra. An infection in any part of this tract is known as a urinary tract infection (UTI). In most cases, the infection is caused by two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Escherichia coli. However, sometimes, it can also be caused by a virus or fungi. UTI is more common in women than in men. This is primarily because the urethra, which is the tube that carries the urine out of the bladder, is shorter in women, making it more likely for the bacteria to enter and reach the bladder easily. Common symptoms of UTI In UTI, people generally experience the following: A burning sensation while urinating Frequent urination Dark colored urine with a potent odor Pelvic pain A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying In the case of any symptoms, it is imperative to consult medical help. Usually, antibiotics are used to treat the infection. But, a natural home treatment option for UTI that can also help in alleviating the agonizing symptoms. In this article, we will look at some effective home remedies to naturally treat UTI. Natural cure of UTI Consuming plenty of fluids Low fluid intake and irregular urination have been linked to increased chances of UTI. When one is adequately hydrated, the person passes sufficient urine that helps in flushing out the bacteria to prevent infections. Therefore, staying hydrated is the key to preventing the occurrence of UTI. To meet the fluid needs, it is best to drink water throughout the day. As per general recommendations, women should consume 91 ounces of water every day and men should take 125 ounces, which also includes water content from food. Increasing the Intake of Vitamin C This is another simple home treatment for UTI to speed up the recovery process.