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3 uncommon questions to ask a neurologist

3 uncommon questions to ask a neurologist

Neuroscience is an interesting study field, with never-ending questions and the quest to answer them. If you know a neurologist and would like to strike up a healthy conversation to know more about the field, you can start with some unusual questions. These questions may not just be about the brain’s health but also about understanding how powerful and complex this organ is. Here are some to start you off. Can brain waves be harnessed to generate power to make devices work? While the brain produces electricity of its own through the neuron receptors, the energy generated is too small. However, there is ongoing research to understand how this electricity naturally generated in the body can be used for scientific purposes. The research includes trying to treat wounds in the body, depression, paralysis, and even cancer. One of the best examples of how electric waves are used in treatment is the pacemaker which helps facilitate the beating of the heart at an appropriate pace. How does the brain intercept and process abstract concepts like art and philosophy? A small experiment was done at the Carnegie Mellon University’s Center for Cognitive Brain Imaging to understand how the brain activates neural patterns to understand abstract scientific concepts.

5 herbs and spices that may aid in preventing cancer

5 herbs and spices that may aid in preventing cancer

In the quest for optimal health, people try exercise routines, remedies, therapies, and food regimes. Regarding the last option, the food choice tends to be bland, unseasoned, and dull, making one believe that health and delicious foods are at odds. However, this is false, and herbs and spices enhance the flavors of meals and offer numerous health benefits. Among their remarkable qualities, certain herbs and spices possess potent properties that may contribute to cancer prevention. Turmeric Turmeric is well-known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A common ingredient in traditional recipes, it is also being taken as a supplement these days. The curcumin found in turmeric has been proven beneficial for a healthy body. There are numerous researches on the health benefits of curcumin and some even indicate it being useful in combating cancer. Adding turmeric to recipes, whether in curries, smoothies, or teas, adds a vibrant yellow color and distinctive flavor to the food and drink, along with being a way to harness its potential benefits. Garlic Garlic is another potential ally in the fight against cancer that can be conveniently found in most kitchens around the world. It is filled with organosulfur compounds that have a cancer-fighting effect on the body.

9 early tell-tale signs of Parkinson’s disease

9 early tell-tale signs of Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder affecting the brain and nervous system, characterized by inadvertent movements, stiffness, and lack of coordination. The disease typically affects senior citizens, with 5-10% of patients experiencing the symptoms before age 50. Several studies have linked the onset of the disease to specific genetic mutations. Parkinson’s occurs when nerve cells in the basal ganglia, which produce dopamine and facilitate movement, begin getting destroyed. Here are some early signs of Parkinson’s disease: Loss of balance The basal ganglia is typically responsible for motor control, ensuring that balance is reflexive. However, individuals with Parkinson’s disease experience problems with the basal ganglia. Consequently, the frontal cortex of the brain, which is responsible for thinking, takes over to regulate balance. However, this process does not occur automatically, so individuals with this disease have to exert efforts to achieve balance. Loss of balance is among the early symptoms of the condition. Muscle stiffness Parkinson’s disease is associated with reduced dopamine levels, which is believed to cause muscle movement issues and give rise to rigidity and stiffness. This stiffness may occur in the arms, legs, hips, and shoulders and can significantly affect daily activities like walking. Tremors Individuals with Parkinson’s disease may experience slow, continuous tremors in their muscles, typically while they are stationary.

5 common peeing mistakes that cause bladder problems

5 common peeing mistakes that cause bladder problems

Peeing is an automatic reflex that is triggered when the bladder becomes full. The kidneys work hard to filter out unwanted toxins and fluids from the body and evacuate these liquids into the bladder that holds the urine. With a normal fluid intake of 2 liters per day, the average adult pees about 800 to 2000 milliliters in a 24-hour cycle. But despite peeing being a regular activity, some people tend to make the following mistakes. Holding pee for a prolonged duration One of the main functions of urination is to help the body evacuate toxins that are filtered out by the kidneys from the bloodstream. So, holding it in actually increases the risk of urinary tract infections caused by the bacteria and toxins in the urine. It also puts pressure on the kidneys, disrupting normal function and increasing the risk of kidney stones developing in the organ. Following urinary voiding It may not be possible to use the restroom multiple times with certain jobs. So many people develop a habit or schedule to urinate at fixed times during the day. This is referred to as preventive voiding, where one learns to control one’s bladder and urine output. While it is not something that can cause major bladder problems, it’s also a habit that should not be prolonged.

10 mistakes to avoid when selecting Medicare coverage

10 mistakes to avoid when selecting Medicare coverage

People living in the country aged 65 and above can opt for federal health insurance assistance in the form of Medicare, which covers comprehensive costs for known treatments. Even some younger individuals with disabilities or those diagnosed with end-stage renal disease are eligible for Medicare plans. It is divided into four parts and covers everything from hospitalization expenses to the cost of prescriptions. Here are ten common mistakes to avoid while enrolling for Medicare. Enrollment mistakes Medicare benefits become available as soon as a person turns 65. So, it is always beneficial to apply for Medicare policies in the initial enrollment period, open only for a fixed time. Enrolling late can lead to an increase in premiums that would have been otherwise affordable. Signing up for automatic renewals Never voluntarily opt for automatic renewal, as one can switch up plans and avail benefits under a different policy that can be changed once a year. So, consider the premiums, deductibles, and copayments and see if the new policy is worth it. Taking plans only for the premiums Premiums are just one aspect of the total cost of paying for insurance. One must also compare policy benefits, even if it means paying slightly higher premiums.

15 critical details to know about Medicare coverage

15 critical details to know about Medicare coverage

Medicare is a federal primary insurance program that is offered to elderly seniors. It is available for both working and retired seniors as a benefit to pay for rising healthcare costs. Even young adults suffering from a disability or those diagnosed with end-stage renal disease can avail of this benefit. Medicare is a complicated insurance program that entitles many tricky terms and conditions. Here are 15 essential things you should know about Medicare. It’s a government-sponsored insurance Medicare is something that you can additionally avail over any existing insurance plans to provide coverage for treatment. You need to apply before you turn 65 Applications start three months before you turn 65 and end four months post your 65th birthday, giving you seven months to enroll for the plans. There are four parts Medicare is divided into four main parts, with Part A and B forming the original Medicare. Original covers both the inpatient and outpatient needs, whereas Parts C and D are special advantage plans that help cover special costs and prescriptions. You can choose between Original and Advantage plans Original Medicare only covers Part A and B, with an option to choose Part C to pay for prescriptions. Or choose Part C with optional D coverage.

5 common mistakes to avoid while taking supplements

5 common mistakes to avoid while taking supplements

Foods and beverages provide the necessary nutrients to support physical and mental activity for growing children and adults. However, the body gradually loses its ability to break down foods and beverages to extract and absorb nutrients effectively with advancing age. Even some underlying health complications can trigger nutritional deficiencies, forcing one to take supplements extracted from natural foods and beverages. Here are five crucial mistakes to avoid while taking supplements: Taking too many supplements The body can absorb and process only a finite amount of nutrients daily. So, taking more can trigger unnecessary complications without any of the inherent benefits of supplementing. More is not always healthy, especially regarding supplements made from synthetic extracts. Also, not all vitamins, minerals, and nutrients can be taken at once since mixing supplements has multiple side effects, even the most basic ones for boosting immunity and overall metabolism. Combining the wrong supplements together Never take calcium and iron supplements together, as calcium lowers the body’s ability to absorb iron effectively. The same applies to magnesium and calcium, which should never be taken together. It’s alright to take them apart at long intervals. Vitamin C is great for boosting immunity, and vitamin B12 helps boost energy and cognitive function and improve mood.

5 warning signs of poor blood circulation

5 warning signs of poor blood circulation

Poor blood circulation can have severe consequences for overall health, especially regarding the heart. The heart plays a vital role in pumping oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, and any disruption in blood flow can lead to heart failure. Recognizing the warning signs of poor circulation is crucial for early intervention and prevention. From persistent fatigue to swollen limbs, these symptoms can indicate underlying issues that require expert attention. Fatigue Chronic fatigue is a warning sign that determines something is wrong with the body. It can also be an indication of poor blood circulation. Fatigue can arise from the compromised supply of oxygen and nutrients to various muscles and organs. If someone is experiencing persistent fatigue even after getting sufficient rest, it can be a sign to get blood supply, and other basics checked out. Chest pain or discomfort In the healthcare industry, chest pain or discomfort is referred to as angina. It is one of the most commonly recognized symptoms of cardiac issues associated with poor blood supply. It may manifest as a squeezing, pressure, or tightness in the chest. This pain can occur during physical activity or emotional stress and may subside with rest. Shortness of breath Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing is yet another classic symptom of heart problems.

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Joint conditions – Symptoms, causes, and risks

Joint conditions – Symptoms, causes, and risks

Joint conditions refer to any condition or disease that affects the joints. Arthritis is the most well-known and commonly occurring joint disease, while there are several others that impact the health of individuals across the world. Diseases related to the joints can be both short-lived or they can turn chronic and require surgery and other serious treatment. This condition can be limited to a single joint or it can impact different parts of the body. There are two types in which joint conditions can be classified: inflammatory and non-inflammatory. However, one thing that is common with most joint conditions is that they’re very painful, especially inflammatory diseases. Symptoms of joint conditions There are several symptoms of joint conditions. While most of them will involve pain, some of them might just involve a difference in shape or a bulge around the joint. This will be the earlier stage of any joint condition, and if a person visits a doctor during this stage, treatment can be fairly simple. Let us understand the different symptoms of joint conditions: The area surrounding the joint is swollen or there is prominent redness in the area. If you touch it, and the area is warm, you might want to consult the doctor.

All you need to know about kidney and liver failure

Hepatorenal syndrome is a condition that is identified as a type of kidney failure that occurs in people who have serious damage caused to the liver, commonly due to cirrhosis. When the kidney stops functioning, toxins begin to accumulate in the body which leads to liver failure as well. Therefore, kidney and liver failures are co-dependent in this case. This condition is of two types: 1 and 2. In Type 1 the kidney failure is more rapid, while type 2 patients tend to move gradually toward renal failure and the symptoms are less aggressive. Symptoms The symptoms caused by the hepatorenal syndrome are a cause of medical emergency in most cases. If any of the symptoms associated with the condition occur, the patient must be rushed to a doctor without any delay. The common symptoms associated with the condition include Nausea Increase in body weight Confusion Reduced urination Change in the color of urine, which usually becomes dark-colored Swelling in the abdomen area Jaundice Dementia Vomiting Delirium Causes and risk factors In most cases, the hepatorenal syndrome is a complication associated with liver disease. Almost in all patients, the condition is caused as a result of liver cirrhosis. When a person suffers from cirrhosis of the liver, there are several factors that can cause the hepatorenal syndrome, such as Infections, especially the ones that affect the kidneys Digestive tract disorders such as gastrointestinal bleeding Use of diuretics, the substance used for increased production of urine The primary reason behind the condition is mostly any kind of disease related to the liver.

Menopause – Symptoms, causes, and risks

Menopause is a stage that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles and fertility, and it is diagnosed when a woman doesn’t menstruate for 12 consecutive months. Usually, menopause occurs in women between the ages of 40s and 50s, but in some cases, early onset may cause a woman to reach menopause in her late 30s as well. Menopause can lead to the development of several symptoms and can cause a lot of discomfort, but no medical attention is required in most cases. This article outlines what you need to know about menopause. Symptoms of menopause The time that leads up to menopause is also known as perimenopause, and it can be accompanied by various symptoms, including the following: Irregularities in the menstrual cycle Vaginal dryness Hot flashes and night sweats Cold chills Sleep-related problems Mood swings Increase in body weight Reduced metabolism Hair thinning Skin dryness Reduced breast fullness The symptoms caused by menopause, including the irregularities in the menstrual cycle, can vary from one woman to another. During perimenopause, it is common as well as expected for a woman’s menstrual cycles to be irregular or skipped. Some women do not get their cycles for several months, followed by normal cycles for a few months.

Symptoms, causes, and risk factors of mental health issues

Mental health is a term that is collectively used to understand illnesses that include symptoms that might have an impact on the thinking, mood, and behavior of a person. Mental health problems might make it difficult for people to concentrate on work or maintain a positive work-life balance. There might even be problems pertaining to relationships when a person is dealing with mental health problems. While mental health and stress have a complex but definite relationship, the latter can gravely be worsened by the former. What is the solution? While some people resort to counseling for mental health problems, some might turn to medication. A combination of both can also be a good and effective solution for some. Symptoms of mental health problems The symptoms of mental health illness can vary depending on the individual, the depth of the problem, and how a person is looking to cope with the problem. There can be emotional and behavioral repercussions of mental health illness, and the best way to cure is to identify it early on and support the person suffering from mental health issues as well as possible. Some of the known symptoms of mental health illnesses include: Feeling sad or low Inability to concentrate on the job or even on leisure activities like watching TV or reading the newspaper Extreme feeling of guilt Irrational fears or worries, especially about the future Mood swings Withdrawal from family, friends, and all sorts of social activities Detachment from the real world and a sense of delusion or hallucinations Inability to keep up with daily tasks or powerlessness in handling the stress of simple jobs Difficulty in understanding people and situations Excessive alcohol use Sudden change in eating habits Change in sex drive for the worse Change in temperament and sudden hostile behavior and loss of patience Suicidal thoughts Physical symptoms such as stomach ache, back pain, and headaches Causes of mental health problems Multiple causes can be associated with the occurrence of mental health illnesses.

Oral health issues – Causes and tips to prevent them

Although maintaining oral hygiene is important for overall health, several mouth and teeth diseases can make it difficult to have the pearly whites you desire. This makes it important to be careful about oral hygiene and make regular efforts to maintain oral health. This article discusses the symptoms and causes of mouth and teeth diseases, followed by a few tips to maintain good oral hygiene. Symptoms Several mouth and teeth problems can be caused by oral health issues. Here are some symptoms that you need to keep in mind to help prevent oral diseases: Foul breath Bleeding gums Loosening of teeth Aches in the tooth, jaw, or gum These are the most common symptoms that are often overlooked, but ignoring them can worsen the pain and aggravate mouth and teeth problems. It’s best to consult a dentist at the earliest if any of these symptoms manifest. Causes The causes of mouth and teeth problems may vary from person to person, but let’s look at the most common causes: Smoking Smoking causes several health issues, and mouth and teeth problems are just one among those. It harms the tissues of the gums and the nicotine also stains the teeth. Poor dental history in the family If your family has a poor dental record, you should take extra precautions to maintain oral health as you face a greater risk of developing mouth and teeth problems.