Home - Diseases conditions
8 ways to manage an overactive bladder
01

8 ways to manage an overactive bladder

An overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition in which there is a sudden and urgent need to urinate. Affecting both men and women, the disorder usually affects older individuals and disrupts social life, sleep, and work. There is a wide range of treatments for an overactive bladder. OAB can be managed through certain behavioral changes, medication, or a combination of both. Bladder training Instead of visiting the bathroom whenever there is an uncontrollable urge, urinate at a set time. It is called scheduled voiding. Start with a few minutes in the beginning and then increase the set time to an hour or more between bathroom visits. Pelvic muscle exercises Performing Kegel exercises daily can strengthen the muscles that help in controlling urination. It is best to consult a doctor or physical therapist to learn how to do Kegel the right way. Biofeedback In this method, electrical sensors are attached to the body, which determine actions it performs. The sensors send real-time feedback about some of the body’s most crucial functions, such as heart rate and blood pressure. It even monitors your exercises and other movements so that you can gauge what’s working best for you. Weight management If you are struggling with obesity, then losing some bodyweight may relieve certain overactive bladder symptoms. Excessive weight gain is a serious problem and can attract various other health complications. It’s also for this reason that it is best to follow a healthy diet. Incontinence products These products manage the symptoms of OAB until the actual course of treatment starts to show results. Absorbent pads or pants can prevent embarrassing moments. You can also use handheld urinals or catheters for draining urine. Medication Doctors may even prescribe drugs to relieve OAB symptoms. Some drugs prescribed for the condition include tolterodine (Detrol), oxybutynin (Ditropan), trospium, solifenacin (Vesicare), darifenacin (Enablex), fesoterodine (Toviaz), and mirabegron (Myrbetriq).
Read More
The effect of diet on Kawasaki disease
02

The effect of diet on Kawasaki disease

Kawasaki disease is a condition that leads to inflammation in the arteries, veins, and capillaries. Also called mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, the disease usually affects children, with around 4,200 cases reported every year in the country. Children of all genders, races, and ethnicities can be diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, but boys are more susceptible to this condition compared to girls. The symptoms of Kawasaki disease include swollen hands and feet, high fever for more than three days, and abdominal pain and vomiting. Fortunately, using a combination of medications and lifestyle measures, Kawasaki disease can be controlled. However, in this article, we’re focusing exclusively on how diet affects Kawasaki disease. Diet and Kawasaki disease Researchers and experts are unsure what causes Kawasaki disease. The condition is not well understood and is usually flagged as a genetic disorder. The link between diet and Kawasaki disease is also somewhat unclear, though a research study published a few years ago could help scientists understand it better. The study, which was published in the journal Nutrition Research, went on to conclude that increased soy consumption leads to an increased risk of Kawasaki disease in children and young infants. Sharing his views on the same, the lead author of the study Dr. Michael Portman, who is a pediatric cardiologist and a researcher at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, said at the time, “It’s concerning that high consumption of foods like tofu, soy formula, edamame, and other soy products is a risk factor for Kawasaki disease.” Note, however, that while reducing consumption of soy foods decreases the risk of Kawasaki disease, it can’t prevent the problem altogether. The same can be said about every other food, which is a problem for parents as it makes it difficult for them to create a diet plan for their children. Still, it is recommended that children eat foods that are rich in fiber and good for the heart.
Read More
5 main types of psoriasis
03

5 main types of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that results in inflammation of the skin throughout the body. It is an autoimmune disease in which the cells of the body act against themselves and begin growing rapidly in an unhealthy manner. As a result of this, the cells start building up over the surface of the skin instead of falling off, leading to scaly patches. This can sometimes cause redness, itchiness, or pain. Here are five different types of Psoriasis observed in people. Plaque Psoriasis This is one of the most common types of Psoriasis and is said to be observed in almost 80% of Psoriasis patients. In this condition, the skin develops significant red patches, which are often covered by silver or white scaly layers. Also known as Psoriasis Vulgaris, in this type of Psoriasis, such patches are usually 1 to 10 centimeters wide and are seen on elbows, knees, scalp, or the lower back. Guttate Psoriasis After Plaque Psoriasis, the second most common type is known as guttate Psoriasis. In this type, the person develops small, drop-shaped red spots on the skin that are caused by inflammation. It is commonly observed on the face and the scalp and can also be found on the arms, legs, and torso. Inverse Psoriasis In Inverse Psoriasis, also known as Flexural Psoriasis, the inflammation of the skin is often observed specifically in the folds of the skin. This may include the armpits, under the breasts, in the buttocks, or the groin area. As a result of sweat and dirt settling in these crevices, this condition results in a lot of itching and discomfort. Pustular Psoriasis Pustular Psoriasis, which is observed in only 3% of people suffering from Psoriasis is a severe condition as compared to the other types. The skin is covered in white, cystic bumps, which are known as pustules.
Read More
Foods to eat and avoid for myeloid leukemia patients
04

Foods to eat and avoid for myeloid leukemia patients

Myeloid leukemia is characterized by immature blood cells that do not turn into healthy ones. This progressive disease must be treated with appropriate medicines and a proper diet. Herein, we discuss the foods that patients can eat and avoid. How is diet associated with myeloid leukemia? A healthy diet can help manage the side effects of the treatment better as well as curb the symptoms and flare-ups of myeloid leukemia. A nutrient-rich diet can generally help the patient feel stronger, bettering their overall health. Foods to have These foods are highly recommended for myeloid leukemia patients Vegetables Accommodating vegetables in the daily diet makes one feel better and helps endure the impact of treatment and symptoms alike. Cruciferous vegetables like kale, spinach, broccoli, and cabbage are recommended for myeloid leukemia as they’re known to combat inactive carcinogens. Fruits Adding fruit to cereals or enjoying a fruit bowl after a meal is an objectively good idea. Replacing mid-day snacks with a smoothie will definitely do more good for the body. Whole grains Whole grains are potent sources of nutrients and make for a great staple for a variety of cuisines. There are many healthy recipes that can be prepared using ingredients like oats, buckwheat. and quinoa. Probiotics Yogurt, kefir, miso, kimchi, and tempeh are great for maintaining a good balance of gut bacteria. These probiotic-rich ingredients are light on the stomach and help digest food better. Fish, poultry, and lean meats These are low-fat high-protein foods that help the body shred the extra pounds and also help reduce cholesterol, which is essential in combating any chronic illness. Foods to avoid Myeloid leukemia patients must stay away from Heavy foods For myeloid leukemia patients, it’s essential to steer clear of foods that are heavy to digest. Foods like burgers, hot dogs, frozen foods, and red meat must be avoided to aid easy digestion.
Read More
Spinal muscular atrophy – Types and symptoms
05

Spinal muscular atrophy – Types and symptoms

Spinal muscular atrophy is a neurological condition that affects an individual’s movement. The rare genetic condition causes the muscles to weaken due to improper functioning of the spinal cord and brainstem cells, and it is the leading genetic cause of infant mortality. Despite its prominence, there is a general lack of awareness about this degenerative disorder. This article tries to bridge the gap by discussing the types and common symptoms of the condition: What is spinal muscular atrophy? Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a group of hereditary disorders that affect movement. The condition causes muscle wasting and weakness, mostly due to the loss of nerve cells present in the brain stem and spinal cord. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive trait, which means an individual must receive the defective gene from both parents (SMA carriers) to develop the disorder. The severity varies based on the type of SMA, with type 0 being the rarest and most severe form that develops during pregnancy. Milder forms of SMA develop during childhood (type 3) and adulthood (type 4). What are the symptoms of SMA? SMA symptoms depend on the type of the neuromuscular disease. There are five basic types, each of which manifests differently. Here are some of the symptoms that manifest with each type: Type 0 This is the rarest form of SMA, and it develops in babies while they are still in the womb. Common signs and symptoms of SMA type 0 include weak muscle tone, joint troubles, and weak muscles for breathing. Type 1 Another severe form of SMA, type 1 can leave an affected infant unable to support their head or sit without support. Swallowing trouble, breathing difficulties, and floppy arms and legs are also common among babies with this type of SMA. Type 2 This type affects babies of 6-18 months and causes moderate to severe symptoms that mostly affect the legs.
Read More