Tag: healthcare

Health Care

Home Remedies for Piles

Author Byaqilrl

Hemorrhoids (read hem-uh-roids), also known as “piles,” are swollen veins of your lower rectum and anus, pretty similar to varicose veins. Depending on the affecting area, hemorrhoids are classified as “internal hemorrhoids” (inside the rectum) and “external hemorrhoids” (under the skin surrounding the anus).

It is a prevalent condition affecting almost three out of four adults once or more in the lifetime. Underlining the exact cause of hemorrhoids is not very easy, but a combination of factors like a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet is usually responsible. Luckily, there are some very effective as well as safe home remedies for piles.

You can use these remedies and some lifestyle adjustments to improve the condition, especially in the early stages. But you can’t rely only on these remedies if you are having symptoms of late stages of piles. Symptoms like painful stools and regular constipation can be managed at home. However, if you start noticing rectal bleeding, you should talk to your doctor without any hesitation.

Before we discuss these home remedies, let’s try to answer some critical questions related to hemorrhoids.

How long do piles last?

It deserves entirely on the severity of the condition and related symptoms. We can’t talk of a set duration for how long you can have piles. Small, painless piles without considerable discomfort usually clear up within a few days and don’t require specific treatment. A change in diet, like more fiber and exclusion of oily foods, leading an active lifestyle, etc., is enough to overcome small hemorrhoids.

However, large, external piles causing significant discomfort like very painful stools, constipation, and rectal bleeding, etc., may take longer to heal. In such cases, home remedies for piles may not be enough, and you may have to talk to your doctor for proper treatment.

How long does it take for hemorrhoids to shrink?

Again, it depends mainly on how the rectum and anus are affected by hemorrhoids. Regular hemorrhoids with mild discomfort usually shrink within a week. However, thrombosed hemorrhoids may take up to 10 days to improve if you are not going for the surgery. It may require two to three weeks for the lump to heal completely.

The healing period after getting proper treatment won’t stop you from leading an everyday life. However, your doctor may suggest you against intense exercises and strenuous activities, at least for a couple of weeks.

Is there a natural cure for piles?

Yes, natural remedies are quite effective in improving the condition – but only when you don’t have severe piles complications. Following are some very effective home remedies that can help you overcome mild to moderate piles symptoms.

Home remedies for piles

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel has been applied as a natural remedy for piles for many years. The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera gel may effectively improve inflammation and irritation of the anus and rectum. Although we don’t have enough scientific evidence of aloe vera as an effective treatment for piles, the National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health records aloe vera gel as a very effective and safe topical natural treatment for piles.

You can find aloe vera gel in various skincare products, but using only pure, fresh aloe vera gel is recommended for the best results. Some people are allergic to aloe vera gel. You should avoid using aloe vera gel even if you are allergic to onions and garlic. Rubbing a pea-sized amount of gel on the forearm will help you to check for allergic reactions. If you don’t notice anything different after 24 to 48 hours, the gel is safe for you for topical use.

2. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is also considered among very efficient home remedies for piles. You must be very sure and, at the same time, cautious about what you are going to apply on piles – because the already-affected area may get more irritated and inflamed. Many people use witch hazel to apply directly on external piles to get relief from pain and irritation.

Natural witch hazel is an excellent source of astringent, a substance known for its tissue-shrinking abilities. Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, witch hazel may give you instant relief from complications, if not treat the symptoms permanently.

Here is how you can use witch hazel as a natural treatment for piles:

  • Take a small quantity of pure and fresh witch hazel on a cotton ball.
  • Dab the cotton ball on painful areas to get some quick relief.
  • You should never use witch hazel diluted with alcohol to avoid an increase in irritation and dryness.

3. Apply Some Petroleum Jelly

Petroleum jelly, Vaseline, in particular, may also be effective to soothe inflammation and pain. For desired results, dab some petroleum jelly on the affected area and get quick relief.

Must Read: Remove Gallstones Naturally – Is It Possible?

Home remedies for external piles

1. Ice Packs

Applying cold or ice packs to the piles may also be surprisingly useful to improve pain and inflammation. An ice pack may temporarily relieve pain and reduce swelling as well.

Don’t apply ice cubes directly to the skin to avoid tissue damage. Instead, scarf a few ice cubes in a soft, clean cloth and dab on the affected area for fifteen minutes to get relief.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing effects and can reduce piles’ complications within a few minutes. You can apply some coconut oil directly on piles to get rid of swelling and irritation. Coconut oil is also very good at reducing the urge to scratch the piles-affected anus.

3. Potato Compress

It may sound very strange, but a potato compress is also among the most effective home remedies for external piles. When you apply grated potato on piles, it works as a soothing astringent and improves the symptoms like pain, inflammation, itching, etc. 

4. Warm Bath with Epsom Salt

A warm bath can also give surprising results and can reduce irritation and inflammation. Both a full-body bath and a sitz bath can give you immediate relief from the complication of piles. We recommend taking an Epsom salt bath for fifteen to twenty minutes after a bowel movement for great results. It might sound a bit arduous but is packed with some surprising results. Hence, you should give it a try.

How to get rid of piles when pregnant?

Pregnant women are usually prone to getting hemorrhoids, especially in the third trimester, due to the pressure of an enlarged uterus on rectal veins and reduced physical activities. You can ease the complications with these home treatments:

  • Avoid sitting in one position for so long: Sitting aggravates the anus and rectum’s venous pressure. You should avoid sitting in one position for hours. Instead, try to take a stroll or keep changing your sitting position regularly. Standing up every few minutes may also help. Sitting on a hemorrhoid pillow (also known as doughnut and ring cushion) may also be very handy.
  • Soak in warm water: Soaking the affected area in a tub filled with warm water may also help reduce complications of hemorrhoids during pregnancy.
  • Ask your doctor for an over-the-counter-remedy: Applying witch hazel medicated pads can be immensely helpful. Otherwise, ask your gynecologist for prescribed medication or cream to ease the symptoms.

NOTE: Pregnancy is itself full of different complications. If you get affected with hemorrhoids quite frequently during pregnancy, we suggest you get in touch with your doctor for proper assessment and a change in the pregnancy-care module, if required.

Natural food treatment for piles

Some minor changes in your eating habit can be surprisingly useful to deal with hemorrhoids and related complications. Here are some tempering you can do with your diet.

1. Add more fiber

Diet rich in fiber can play a crucial role in improving piles by positively affecting your digestion. Fiber increases your stool volume and weight and ensures easy and comfortable passage of stools. Oatmeal, nuts, beans, fruits, pears, etc., are some of the best dietary fiber sources.

2. Drink plenty of water and other liquids

Most anal problems, including hemorrhoids, usually develop due to a lack of fluids in the diet.

Quench a lot of water and other fluids such as fruit and vegetable juices, coconut water, etc., can help you keep your stools soft and make them easy to pass through the intestines. A much softer stool means you can pass the stool without putting much pressure on the rectum – and in less irritation to the affected parts.

3. Add more whole grains

Whole grains are the powerhouses of nutrition. Because they are ready to eat with endosperm, bran, and germ – all of which are packed with various health benefits.  Whole grains are particularly rich in insoluble fiber and can immensely improve your digestion and reduce the discomfort related to hemorrhoids.

You should keep in mind that whole grains are not only about bread and whole-wheat flour. While these are the best options, the list contains corn, brown rice, oats, whole rye, barley, and quinoa.

In particular, oatmeal can be a perfect natural treatment for piles, and that too, without any side effects. Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber known as “beta-glucan,” which works like a prebiotic and improves your gut microbiome. Prebiotic also ensure better survival for good bacteria in your diet.

When you visit an online or nearby store to purchase oatmeal, steel-cut oats need more cooking time but are less processed.

4. Add Broccoli and Other Veggies Containing Cruciferous

Cruciferous veggies like cauliflower, broccoli, arugula, kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage, turnips, radishes, etc., can be very healthful home remedies for piles.

These vegetables are known for their anticancer properties, but they are packed with many insoluble fibers. For example, only one cup (76 grams) of raw broccoli gives you about 2 grams of healthy fiber, and the best part is, all of it is insoluble. Broccoli increases your stool’s volume and makes it pass easier. Additionally, cruciferous vegetables contain glucosinolate, a plant chemical that is easier for your gut bacteria to breakdown.

A study highlighted that an increased intake of cruciferous vegetables (14 grams per kg) of body weight assorted the gut microbe within a couple of weeks. And assorted gut microbe is directly linked with a healthy, more resilient gastrointestinal system, and at the same time, and improved immunity. This, especially when combined with fiber content, makes cruciferous veggies a go-to option for people struggling with hemorrhoids.

5. Cucumbers and Melons

Cucumbers and melons come from the Cucurbitaceae family. They are not only very delicious, but can be fine home remedies for piles, and can also improve your digestion.

Tip: Instead of consuming peeled cucumber, have them with the skin to get the most fiber content.

6. Apples

Apples also boast a decent amount of healthy fiber. For instance, one medium-sized apple contains about 5 grams of fiber. The apple contains a special fiber known as pectin, which forms a gel-like consistency in your digestive tract.

This improves your digestive system and bulks up the stool, easing the strain during stool and other hemorrhoids symptoms.

Some other very healthy and effective foods that can help you get over piles are pears, raspberries, bananas, stewed prunes, bell peppers, celery, root vegetables, squash, etc.

Foods to Avoid:

You should avoid foods low in fiber, including red meat, dairy products, fried foods, processed meats, salty foods, white flour, etc.

Piles are not a very serious complication, of course, until and unless left untreated for multiple weeks. You can improve mild to moderate symptoms with a healthy combination of a fiber-rich diet and home remedies for piles. Hopefully, we have guided you correctly with some very efficient natural remedies. If you don’t notice any recovery in symptoms even after a couple of weeks, we suggest you talk to a doctor for a proper assessment. Sometimes, doctors suggest hemorrhoidectomy (a surgical procedure to remove hemorrhoids), especially if there is no improvement after long-term medical treatment.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317114#Lifestyle-changes

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268

https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-hemorrhoids#otc-ointments

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322976#recovery

https://www.healthline.com/health/thrombosed-hemorrhoid#recovery

https://www.readersdigest.ca/health/conditions/home-remedies-for-hemorrhoids/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/hemorrhoids-during-pregnancy/faq-20058149

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-for-piles#Foods-to-avoid

Health Care

Pimple In Ear – Potential Causes, Treatment, Prevention and Much More

Author Byaqilrl

If you feel a bump in or around your ear, you probably have a pimple inside your ear. Is having a pimple in the ear common? Is it normal? What causes a pimple in the ear? Do you need to get serious about it? – A bunch of questions starts revolving around your mind, and you keep looking for satisfactory answers.

Pimple is a prevalent skin condition, affecting millions of people all around the world. Pimples can affect any part of your body, but the areas containing most oil glands are more prone to it, and that’s why your face and back are affected with pimples more than other body parts.

You may feel pain and discomfort in or around your ear if you have a pimple inside. Usually, pimples don’t need specific treatment, and they are subsided on their own. However, you can speed up the healing process by using simple, safe, and effective home remedies.

In this article, we discuss possible causes of pimples, how to remove them without hurting your ear, what are different treatment options, and what are the prevention tips.

Causes of pimple in ear

The causes of pimples inside your ear are not different from the causes of pimples you get on your face, back, or other body parts. Your ear canal and outer ear are made up of skin cells, oil-producing glands, and hair cells – and all of them take their part in the formation of pimples inside your ear.

Pimples are formed when a pore inside your ear gets clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. Sometimes, bacteria are also responsible for causing pimples in the ear. And hence, anything that helps bacteria traveling inside can form pimples. Causes of pimple in the ear may include:

  • Regular and prolonged exposure to a dusty or dirty environment
  • Using already used earbuds or sharing them with others
  • Putting unnecessary things in the ear, including toothpick, pen, pencil, or finger, etc.
  • Increased mental stress
  • Ear becoming infected or dirty after piercing
  • Allergic reactions to certain hair or beauty products that accidentally enter the ear canal
  • Wearing helmets for very long hours
  • Hormonal imbalances, especially during puberty
  • Otitis externa or swimmer’s ear after getting in touch with dirty or stale water
  • Using old, dirty earphones or earbuds
  • Production of excessive oil from glands inside the ear

Also Read: Face Cream Allergy Symptoms

How to Know If the Bump in My Ear Is Boil or A Pimple?

Sometimes, a boil is misunderstood as a pimple because both look pretty similar from the outside. If you feel a painful bump in or around your ear, you might be having a boil. Boils are usually hard; reddish lumps appear on the skin. They usually affect the body parts that have hair and sweat. And that’s why you usually get boils around your head, eyelids, beard, armpits, and thighs, etc.

If you think you don’t have hair inside your ear canal, you are wrong – because you have! The hair inside the ear, along with the earwax, protects your eardrum from debris and dust.

Inspecting your internal ear on your own is almost impossible, and it can be a bit hard to differentiate between a boil and a pimple. Typically, if the bump is larger than a pea, is compressible, and fluctuant, it’s implausible that it’s a pimple.

If somehow, you can see the bump with the help of a mirror, an individual, or by taking a photo, you should look for the size and appearance. If it’s pinkish red, more extensive with a white or yellow center and lesion, it’s probably a boil.

If the bump is smaller in size, red in color, not very painful, it might be a pimple inside your ear.

How to treat a pimple in your ear?

Your ear is one of the most sensitive body parts, and you should not use “anything” as a treatment for acne inside the ear. Those usual acne creams should also be avoided to ensure maximum safety of your ear.

Following are some very effective and safe home remedies for pimple in the ear.

1. Cold Compress

Ice packs are used effectively to improve bumps and soothe inflammation. In fact, various studies back that repeated application of cold compress effectively treats pimples, including those inside the ear.

Steps to follow

  • Apply an ice cube gently around the painful area.
  • Hold and press gently for around 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Remove for a few seconds and apply again.
  • Repeat these steps twice or thrice a day to get soothing and calming effects.

2. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree essential oil is packed with excellent antibacterial and antifungal properties and can heal ear pimples, especially if caused due to bacterial infection. One should not use tea tree oil with 100% strength, as it can irritatethe skin. So, only use 5% diluted tea tree oil with a carrier oil. Using skin products containing tea tree oil can also help. We recommend using a cotton swab to apply tea tree oil a few times a day to the pimple visible from the outside.

3. Basil

Basil

Basil has been used as a natural treatment for various infections due to its antimicrobial properties. And it can also be proved a handy treatment for pimples in the ear.

What You Will Need

  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • Cotton ball or dropper

Steps You Have to Follow

  • Extract the juice by crushing the basil leaves
  • Apply the juice to the visible pimple and surrounding area using a cotton ball
  • Alternatively, pour a few drops of basil juice inside your ear canal to treat pimple

4. Onion

Onion

Onions are known for their microbes-killing properties and can help you eliminate ear pimples, especially bacterial infection. Also, onion juice can absorb harmful chemicals from the skin affected by pimples and prevent a recurrence.

You Will Need

  • One medium-sized onion
  • Cheesecloth

What You Have to Do

  • Slice the onion into two halves and heat them on the stove or in the microwave for a minute or so.
  • Wrap one half of the onion into the cheesecloth, and place around your infected ear.
  • Please keep it for ten minutes, or until the onion cools down.

5. Olive Oil

Warm olive oil can be useful, especially if there is too much wax or dirt around the pimple. This can also help in treating ear zit.

What You Need

  • Olive oil
  • Dropper

What You Have to Do

  • Put some drops of warm olive oil in your ear using a new dropper.
  • Applying the olive oil topically with a cotton ball is also effective.

6. Black Tea

The tannin content of black tea with warm water can be proved a handy treatment for pimples in the ear.

What You Need

  • A couple of black tea bags
  • Warm washcloth
  • Warm water

Steps to Follow

  • Boil the water and dip tea bags for a couple of minutes. Extract the excess water and apply gently around your ear.
  • Keep the warm compress on for fifteen minutes to get rid of pain due to pimples.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

You can’t keep ACV away from your kitchen. Can’t you? This versatile vinegar does make its presence felt due to its action on a wide range of skin conditions. To help you, diluted apple cider vinegar may be used for pimples in the ear as well! ACV is known for its antibacterial and astringent properties and can help improving infections by opening up the clogged pores. Topical application of ACV can give instant relief from pimple symptoms, including pain, redness, and inflammation.

What You Require

  • Diluted apple cider vinegar
  • Cotton ball

Steps You Should Follow

  • Soak the cotton ball in diluted apple cider vinegar and wipe over the visible pimple.
  • Keep it on for a couple of minutes before washing with clean water.

8. Garlic

Garlic does wonders mainly for a pimple on the outer ear. It can improve pain due to pimple due to its antibacterial properties. By using garlic, you can get rid of both pains as well as a zit.

You Will Need

  • Two cloves of peeled garlic
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil or mustard oil

Steps You Need to Follow

  • Heat the lightly pressed garlic cloves and oil of your choice.
  • Warm the mixture on low heat until the cloves are black.
  • Strain the oil from the mixture and keep it aside until the oil gets to room temperature.
  • Now, apply the oil on the outer ear pimple and leave it for a few minutes.
  • If the pimple is inside, you can pour a couple of drops of oil inside.

9. Hydrogen Peroxide

Here is another very, very effective treatment for pimples in the ear. Hydrogen peroxide works really well on pimples due to bacterial infection. Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, you can thin it as an alternative treatment.

You Will Need

  • 3% diluted hydrogen peroxide
  • Cotton ball

Must Read: How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Remove Blackheads?

Steps to Follow

  • Soak the cotton ball in diluted hydrogen peroxide for a couple of minutes.
  • Remove the cotton ball and squeeze to get rid of excess solution.
  • Now, dab the cotton ball on the external ear pimple for a couple of minutes.

Toothpaste in the ear for pimple – Is it a good idea?

There is a lot of rumors around netizens about the effectiveness of toothpaste on the in-ear pimple. People claim rubbishy that dabbing some toothpaste on the pimple will clear it up overnight! Certain kinds of toothpaste contain some natural ingredients that can be effective against pimples, but there is no scientific backing for toothpaste itself as a treatment.

Most kinds of toothpaste contain ingredients like alcohol, triclosan, and other chemicals that can only harm your skin. Menthol content of some toothpaste can give temporary relief from pain and swelling, but there is no logic behind using toothpaste to treat a pimple. So, we recommend avoiding it altogether, especially if there are so many other natural and safe treatments available.

pimple in the ear

How to pop a pimple in your ear canal? – Is it safe to remove without proper treatment?

Sometimes, it may be tempting to squeeze the pimple out, but you should avoid it altogether, as it can harm your internal ear.

Trying to pop the pimple out of your ear can force the pus deeper into the pores. And in a result, you may suffer from further irritation and inflammation. In the process of squeezing the pimple, the area may get swabbed, and there may be a scar formation.

An infected pimple may also convert into a boil. Sometimes, it happens without any external reason, trauma, and pricking, squeezing, and poking.

Some Prevention Tips

It is possible to prevent the formation of pimple in the ear by:

  • Proper and regular cleaning to reduce sebum and dead skin cells
  • Avoiding swimming in filthy water
  • Avoiding the introduction of foreign objects in the ear
  • Not wearing hats or helmets for a very long time

Is it always a pimple?

Sometimes, other types of growth may also be mistaken for in-ear pimples. Other bumps that may affect your ear may include:

  • Keloid Scars: Dark, raised, large scar tissues resulted from an old wound
  • Sebaceous Cysts: Small bumps beneath the skin with slow or now growth
  • Basal Cell Carcinoma: Although very rare, bumps may be due to malignant growth
  • Seborrheic Keratosis: Common, harmless growths look like brownish, raised bumps
  • Acanthoma Fissure: An uncommon skin problem resembling a raised edge, usually seen in people who always use contact lenses or sunglasses.

Pimple in the ear can be painful, uncomfortable but is rarely severe. You can get rid of it by using some very simple, safe, yet effective home remedies. Hopefully, you got to know a lot about in-ear pimples, and you are now aware of some myths like “toothpaste in the ear for pimple” and “popping it out forcefully.” If you feel the symptoms of a pimple in or around your ear, and you are unable to see it even with the help of your friend, we recommend you to get in touch with an ENT specialist. It might be possible that you are having more than you are assuming, and you may require proper professional medical assistance. You are most welcome with your comments if you have something to say, ask, or suggest. Cheers!

References

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pimple-in-the-ear#outlook

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/pimple-in-ear#treatment

https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/get-rid-of-pimples-inside-the-ear/

https://www.healthline.com/health/toothpaste-on-pimples#Toothpaste-on-pimples-may-do-more-harm-than-good

https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-do-with-a-pimple-in-ear-4171778

https://www.allure.com/story/pimple-in-ear-treatments

Health Care

Home Remedies: How to Reduce Sugar Level

Author Byaqilrl

A frequent rise in your blood sugar level is not good for your health at all. It can affect different body parts and components, including blood vessels, nerves, blood, and various organs. If left uncontrolled, high blood sugar may lead to some severe health conditions.

Different medications and synthetic insulin are used for regulating high blood-sugar levels. But there are some easy ways to regulate minutely high blood sugar with some natural treatments. These home remedies for hyperglycaemia are effective as well as safe and are suitable for diabetic and non-diabetic people of any age. In this guide, we will try to learn how to lower high blood sugar at home.

Also, we will discuss some essential aspects of high blood sugar; it’s causes, different blood-sugar levels chart and a lot more. Let’s find out what is high blood sugar first.

What is high blood sugar?

Also known as “hyperglycaemia”, high blood pressure is the most prominent characteristic of all types of diabetes. An average blood sugar level depends on various factors including age, sex, and lifestyle etc. The blood sugar level is raised when your pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin, or your body’s cells have somehow become resistant to insulin.

When your body’s blood sugar level is more than 130 mg/dL before a meal or more than 180 mg/dL after the first bite of your meal, however, most of the signs and symptoms of high blood pressure remain dormant until the blood-sugar level is more than 250 mg/dl. But a few symptoms are known to have a rapid onset.

Hyperglycaemia can be both acute or chronic. Acute hyperglycaemia affects your body briefly and is usually due to meals highly rich in carbohydrates, stress, a missed dose of medicine, medicinal reaction, or other illness etc.

Chronic hyperglycaemia is a condition characterized by long-term elevated blood glucose. It is usually a result of ignored or untreated diabetes or due to improper diabetes treatment regimen. Chronic one is undoubtedly more dangerous and can be life-threatening at times as well. A long-term increased blood-sugar level can have a toxic effect on your tissues and may lead to a plethora of other complications.

What are the causes of high blood sugar?

Underlining a single cause for high blood sugar is a bit tough. However, there are various risk factors associated with diabetes, including:

  • Excessive eating, especially too much snacking between meals
  • Prolonged illness or infection
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Prolonged mental stress
  • Overtreatment of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
  • Excessive intake of medicines like steroids

What causes blood sugar to rise in non-diabetics?

Non-diabetic hyperglycaemia is a condition in which your blood sugar level increases even if you don’t have diabetes. A major or prolonged illness is usually the most common cause of non-diabetic hyperglycaemia. Here are the conditions that are typically associated with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia:

  • Medical condition such as polycystic ovarian syndrome or Cushing syndrome
  • Infections like urinary tract infection or pneumonia
  • Trauma such as severe injury or burn
  • Nutrition through IV or feeding tube
  • Prolonged lack of physical activities
  • A family history of gestational diabetes
  • Overdose of certain medications like diuretics or steroids

What causes blood sugar to rise without eating?

Sometimes, your blood sugar level may elevate even without eating! Yes, some astounding factors can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar level

  • Artificial sweeteners – Some studies suggest that overuse of artificial sweeteners can also cause a hike in blood sugar levels.
  • Coffee – People who are sensitive to coffee can have an elevated blood-sugar level even without adding sugar to it.
  • Sunburn – The pain due to sunburn causes stress, which is a common causative factor for an increased blood sugar
  • Loss of Sleep – Insufficient sleep of even one night can be responsible for stress and hence, non-diabetic hyperglycaemia.
  • Skipping Breakfast – Leaving breakfast can also cause increased blood sugar, especially after lunch and dinner.
  • Dawn Phenomenon – Having a surge of hormones in the morning irrespective of being diabetic or not is also seen as a causative factor for higher blood sugar in both diabetics and non-diabetics.
  • Nasal Spray – Some nasal sprays contain chemicals that may trigger your liver to cause a surge in blood sugar levels.
  • Dehydration – Reduced water intake is also associated with a higher concentration of sugar in the blood.
  • Gum Disease – One of the common complications responsible for a hike in blood glucose in both diabetics and non-diabetics.

We recommend you to watch out for these factors if you are having a surge in blood-sugar level even after having a balanced diet and avoiding overeating. These factors elevate blood-sugar levels, usually for a limited period, and you should not be worried much. However, a constant or frequent surge should not be taken lightly, and you should see a licensed medical practitioner.

Can stress cause high blood sugar levels in non-diabetics?

Yes, work stress, emotional stress, very scary movies, a trauma, or a sudden lousy news etc. all can force your liver to release already stored glucose to ensure a better response to these triggers.

On the other hand, sometimes, stress disrupts the release of insulin from the pancreas and causes a pile-up of glucose in your blood. If you have long-term mental stress, the build-up of glucose will only increase. Stress-induced hyperglycaemia in non-diabetics is usually harmless and can be managed very effectively with physical exercises, meditation, counselling etc.

What level of blood sugar is dangerous?

You should start taking a lot of precautions and proper treatment if your blood sugar level is more than 150 mg/dL while fasting and 200 mg/dL after a meal. You may start developing symptoms once the blood-sugar level is more than 300 mg/dl. You may have one or more symptoms, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Blurry vision
  • Excessive thirst
  • Excessive urination
  • Dryness of mouth
  • Tiredness throughout the day

Blood-sugar level of anything more than 400 mg/dl can be dangerous, and very high blood sugar, i.e. 600 mg/dl or higher can cause coma and even death.

High blood sugar levels chart?

A blood-glucose chart is convenient to identify ideal and healthy blood sugar levels throughout the day, including fasting and after meals. While checking for blood-sugar, you should also keep in mind the low blood sugar. It is not very common but can be very harmful to your health, even life-threatening at times. Here is a blood-sugar chart along-with recommendation.

Fasting blood sugar level Risk-level and suggested action
50 mg/dl or under Dangerously low: Immediate medical attention is very important
70 – 90 mg/dl Usually very low: Consuming sugar while having symptoms. If not improved, get medical attention
90 – 120 mg/dl Normal range
120-160 mg/dl Medium: Lifestyle changes under the guidance of a doctor is usually enough to manage
160-240 mg/dl Too high: Immediate actions are required to control and reduce bloodsugar levels
240-300 mg/dl Much too high: Can be a sign of improper glucose management, seeing a doctor is strongly recommended
300 mg/dl or high Very high: Immediate medical attention is advised
600 mg/dl or high Too high, the patient may go to coma. Can be life-threatening also.

Blood sugar levels chart by age

Average blood sugar level varies according to different factors; age being the most common one. Here is a chart for your reference, so that you can understand the optimum blood sugar level for other age groups

Kids Under 6

  • Fasting – 80 to 180 mg/dl
  • Before meal – 100 to 180 mg/dl
  • After a meal (1-1 ½ hour) – about 180 mg/dl
  • Bedtime – 110 – 200 mg/dl

Age 6-12

  • Fasting – 80 to 180 mg/dl
  • Before meal – 90 to 180 mg/dl
  • Before exercise – At least 150 mg/dl
  • Bedtime – 100 to 180 mg/dl

Age 13-19

  • Fasting – 70 to 150 mg/dl
  • Before meal – 90 to 130 mg/dl
  • Before exercise – At least 150 mg/dl
  • Bedtime – 90 to 150 mg/dl

Age 20+

  • Fasting – Less than 100 mg/dl
  • Before meal – 70 to 130 mg/dl
  • After a meal (1-2 hours) – Less than 180 mg/dl
  • Before exercise – *If taking insulin – 100 mg/dl
  • Bedtime – 100 to 140 mg/dl

What to do when blood sugar is high? – Self-management of hyperglycaemia

If you are noticing early signs of high blood sugar, you should test your blood sugar with the help of your doctor. If the level is not very high, here are a few effective ways to control it.

  • Drink a lot of water: Water can be helpful to remove extra sugar from the blood through urine, and also aids you to avoid dehydration.
  • Change your diet and eating habits: “Don’t eat anything”. Avoid sugary or starchy foods from your diet. Reduce or stop sugar intake, especially that of refined sugar. Also, make some adjustments to the timing of your meals. Avoid eating late at night, so that your body can get enough time to digest and process the foods.
  • Exercise, a lot more, but with caution: Exercises and workouts can also help you to reduce high blood pressure. But specific activities are also known for causing a spike. So, talk to your doctor before starting any exercise. If you have diabetes and the blood sugar level is high, you should check for ketones in your urine. Don’t exercise if you find ketones.

How to reduce sugar level? – Home Remedies

Yes, treatment, particularly insulin intake, is necessary to keep your blood sugar level intact. But you can also try some home remedies to reduce high blood sugar, especially if it is just above the normal range.

  • Control Your Carb Intake:

Your body breaks carbohydrate down into healthy sugars, and then insulin helps sugars to move into the cells. When your body gets too much carb, the insulin factor is unable to function correctly, and the blood glucose level is raised unhealthily.

Hence, you should control your carb intake by having a track of what you are eating. These days, tracking your meals is very easy, thanks to some very innovative mobile applications, smartwatches, and gadgets. Lean meats, fishes, eggs, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds etc. are some healthy, low-carb foods you can add to your diet.

  • Increase Fibre Intake:

Fibres are known for slowing down the digestion of carbs and absorption of sugar. So, increasing your fibre intake can help to keep your blood sugar level in check. Your body requires both soluble and insoluble fibres; soluble fibre is particularly effective to lower blood sugar levels. Some excellent sources of fibre are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes etc.

  • Manage Your Stress

At times, stress management alone can have surprising effects, especially if fluctuated hormones are causing a spike in blood sugar levels. Exercises, mindfulness, meditation, consulting a psychiatrist, talking to your family and friend etc. can help you to overcome stress.

  • Get proper, quality sleep

Insomnia, stress, hypertension, raised blood sugar levels, increased blood pressure, lethargies, irritability, obesity etc. all are very much linked with each other. At least one of them accompany further complication. And if you are struggling with insomnia, there are very high chances that you have mental stress. And finding out the exact cause, and managing it properly can help you to work your sleep cycle properly.

Practising mindfulness, bringing discipline to your life, and enjoying some time with family and friends etc. all can help you to feel relaxed while going to bed. And once you start getting proper, quality sleep, you will start getting rid of a lot of problems, including hyperglycaemia.

  • Lose Some Weight

If you are overweight or obese (See the difference), you should stop feeling very relaxed, because you are moving towards disaster. Obesity is very harmful to your body in a lot of ways and can be one of the major causes of high blood sugar.Hence, controlling your body weight can also be very useful to reduce blood sugar levels, and again, reduce your risk of getting diabetes.

Losing weight is not as straightforward as a lot of people think. However, if you are determined enough, you can shed a few kilos with a combination of a healthy diet, exercises, and workout etc.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to high blood sugar level, people assume straightaway that they have diabetes. However, that’s not the case. You may get a spike in your blood sugar levels even if you are non-diabatic. And managing acute hyperglycaemia is usually not very challenging. Hopefully, we were successful in trying to help you with different aspects of high blood sugar. It has become a pervasive health problem, and we recommend you to meet your doctor as soon as you get even a few symptoms.

References:

https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/managing-diabetes/blood-glucose-management/high-blood-sugar/#:~:text=Blood%20glucose%20is%20commonly%20considered,higher%20than%20250%20mg%2Fdl.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-sugar-hyperglycaemia/

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/15-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar#TOC_TITLE_HDR_16

https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/guide/diabetes-hyperglycemia

https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/managing-diabetes/blood-glucose-management/high-blood-sugar/#:~:text=Blood%20glucose%20is%20commonly%20considered,higher%20than%20250%20mg%2Fdl.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371451#:~:text=A%20blood%20sugar%20level%20less,mmol%2FL)%20indicates%20prediabetes.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-sugar-hyperglycaemia/

https://www.drugs.com/cg/nondiabetic-hyperglycemia.html

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/spotlights/blood-sugar.html#:~:text=Some%20people’s%20blood%20sugar%20is,after%20both%20lunch%20and%20dinner.

https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/qa/can-stress-cause-high-blood-sugar-levels

https://www.summitmedicalgroup.com/library/adult_health/aha_high_blood_sugar/#:~:text=Very%20high%20blood%20sugar%E2%80%94that,at%20your%20healthcare%20provider’s%20office.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317536#interpreting-the-results

https://www.srlworld.com/blog/blood-sugar-levels-normal-high-low-ranges/

Health Care

Throat Cancer: Early Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Prognosis

Author Byaqilrl

What is throat cancer? What are the symptoms? How can you detect throat cancer with some early signs? What are the different causes? Is there any way to prevent throat cancer? Stage 4 throat cancer: how long to live?

There are so many different questions that can strike your mind when you hear about throat cancer. There are various types of throat cancer, and each of them is named according to the affected part of the throat. You may have cancer of the larynx (part of the throat containing voice box), the hypopharynx, the oropharynx, or the nasopharynx.

Fortunately, throat cancer is among rare types of cancer. If you fear developing throat cancer, or you have suddenly started to think about it due to certain complications. Here’s everything you should know about throat cancer before finally concluding.

How Common is Throat Cancer?

According to the National Cancer institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER), roughly 13,000 people had laryngeal cancer in 2018. Fifty-one thousand five hundred forty people will be suffering from the pharynx and oral cavity cancers by the end of 2020. There is a 78 percent survival rate of a throat cancer patient after diagnosis. Around half of all laryngeal cancer cases are diagnosed before spreading to other body parts.

How is Throat Cancer Staged?

The staging system for throat cancer plays a vital role in deciding how good or bad the prognosis is. The stage is determined according to the TNM staging system in which T refers to the primary tumor, N refers to the spread of cancer to lymph nodes, and M is for the spreading phase of the tumor.

There are five different throat cancer stages from stage 0 (probable progression of abnormal cells to cancerous ones) to stage 4 (spread of cancer is confirmed). The approach to treatment is decided according to the stage of throat cancer. Here is a brief discussion of different stages.

  • Stage 0: Also known as “carcinoma in situ,” reflects the beginning of the scale. It is characterized by the abnormal cell in the throat lining that can become cancerous.
  • Stage 1: The very early stage of throat cancer. The tumor size is not more than two centimeters, and the lymph nodes are not affected.
  • Stage 2:The tumor is more than 2 centimeters in size but less than four centimeters. Lymph nodes are not affected yet.
  • Stage 3 throat cancer: how long to live? The tumor is usually larger than four centimeters or has affected the lymph nodes of the compromised side. When it comes to the survival rate, almost 60 percent of affected people survive five years or more after the diagnosis.
  • Stage 4 throat cancer how long to live? It is called the “final stage” or “the most advanced stage” Irrespective of the size of the tumor, it may be spread to nearby tissue including the neck, thyroid, trachea, jaw, esophagus, mouth, or other nearby locations.
  • One large lymph node on the same affected side of the throat, multiple lymph nodes of different sizes on the same affected side, or a single lymph node irrelevant to size on the opposite side of the affected part.
  • In very severe cases, even distant body parts like lungs are affected.

When it is about survival, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the five-year survival rate after the diagnosis of the fourth stage of throat cancer is only 39.1 percent.

Possible Causes of Throat Cancer

The exact cause of throat cancer is still not clear; the cancerous cells developing thanks to the genetic mutations keep growing uncontrollably, and they start forming multiple tumors that may even spread to other body parts.

Some of the factors that can start genetic mutations in the cell are cigarette smoking (particularly chain-smoking), alcohol, exposure to toxic substances like asbestos, infection due to the human papillomavirus (HPV), etc.

throat cancer symptoms

Risk Factors Associated with Throat Cancer

Risk factors associated with throat cancer are usually related to lifestyle. For example, smoking, tobacco chewing, betel nuts chewing, deplorable dental hygiene, etc. can increase throat cancer risk. Chain-smoking for years is considered the leading cause of throat cancer.

Symptoms of Throat Cancer

The symptoms of throat cancer may vary from person to person. And the worst thing is, nonspecific symptoms are usually the most common ones. Not every patient will develop similar symptoms. But some symptoms are present in almost every patient with throat cancer. They are:

  • Hoarseness of the voice
  • Chronic sore throat
  • Chronic cough
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Constant pain in or around the throat
  • Constant production of phlegm
  • Uncomfortable and painful movement of the tongue
  • Painful opening of the mouth, especially in patients habitual of tobacco chewing
  • Nosebleeds and throbbing headaches

Early Signs of Throat Cancer

The prognosis and treatment may get better if throat cancer is identified at the early stages. These early signs also vary from person to person. However, like apparent symptoms, there are some common early signs too.

  • Persistent soreness of throat: One of the most common as well as classic symptoms of throat cancer.
  • Difficulty Swallowing: Some people with possible throat cancer development may experience a pain or burning sensation mainly while swallowing. Sometimes, the sufferer may feel the food is stuck in the throat.
  • Sudden voice changes: A quieter and huskier sound is another early sign of throat cancer. You may find it difficult while pronouncing certain words or may develop a slurred speech.
  • A lump on the neck: This is usually due to a swollen lymph node. A lump, possibly on the affected side, is also considered an early sign of throat cancer.

How to check for throat cancer at home?

Although it’s not the best idea, there are a few steps you can follow to check for throat cancer. Let’s look at a self-exam for the cancer of the head, neck, or throat (applies on all three).

Also Read: Oral Thrush – All You Need to Know

Both prevention and diagnosis require proper and regular oral pathology exams. But it’s also good to perform a self-exam from time to time to rule out any possible cancerous development. Here are the steps you can follow for the self-assessment.

Step 1: Know what you are checking: Signs of throat cancer may include

  • A sudden change in skin color in a particular area
  • A change in the texture of the skin
  • Lumps around throat or neck (mostly if it wasn’t there before)
  • Lesions

Step 2: Hold a bright light such as a torch or flashlight and look in a mirror and check for the following:

  • Cheek walls
  • Back of throat
  • Tongue
  • Lips
  • Top and bottom of the mouth

Now, let’s discuss how to check throat cancer at home

Step 1: Place your hands on the back of both sides of the jaw right under your ears. Open and close your jaws repeatedly while feeling for any bumps.

Step 2:Bring your hands down the neck without removing them.

Step 3: Rotate your head to the right side and feel for the left-side neck muscles. Now, rotate to the left side and feel for the right-side neck muscles.

Step 4: Try grabbing and swallowing your gullet.

Step 5: Bring your chin downwards, place your palms away from your face, and use fingers to feel the underside of the jaw.

That’s how you can check for superficial signs and symptoms of throat cancer. Proper physical examination with laboratory investigation is critical for an accurate diagnosis. So, you should not conclude without consulting an experienced physician.

Is there any home remedy for throat cancer?

No, there is no home remedy or cure for throat cancer. You should not consider them as first-line treatment. However, a few home remedies are useful to improve some of the symptoms of throat cancer.

  • Dietary supplements like vitamins and foods rich in vitamin C and folate
  • Herbs like garlic and green tea
  • Acupuncture
  • Hydrotherapy like cold and/or hot compressors
  • Physical therapy
  • Lifestyle adjustments like exercises, change in diet, and avoidance of alcohol and smoking, etc.

NOTE: Don’t use any of these remedies without talking to your doctor

How is Throat Cancer Diagnosed?

Healthcare professionals take the proper and complete history of the patients for the correct diagnosis of throat cancer. The doctor will ask you a few critical questions related to signs, symptoms, and complications to conclude. Your doctor will only diagnose after finding various information. After a detailed physical examination, your doctor may suggest additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Imaging tests like CT, MRI, PET scan, etc. are usually considered

Other tests like chest X-rays, barium swallowing, laryngoscopy, etc. are useful for cancerous cells’ correct location.

Biopsy of the tumor, endoscopic biopsy, and fine-needle aspiration of the tumor are definitive diagnosis methods.

How is Throat Cancer Treated?

Treatment of throat cancer mainly depends on cancer, the seriousness of symptoms, and the extent of affected cells. The treatment is usually tailored for different patients to ensure the best chances of a successful outcome. Treatment focuses on preserving the patient’s ability to speak, eat, and lead an everyday life. Doctors follow one or more treatment techniques, including radiation therapy, surgery, proton therapy, targeted therapies, and other clinical trials. Here is a brief discussion on the significant components of the treatment of throat cancer.

  • Chemotherapy: Anti-cancer drugs are administered to kill cancerous cells after radiation or surgical treatment. Chemotherapy, like cetuximab (Erbitux), is usually used with various suitable combinations.
  • Surgery: Different types of surgical procedures, including transoral laser microsurgery, minimally invasive, laser, robotic, tumor excision surgery, etc. are performed to improve speech and swallowing.
  • Radiation Therapy: Radioactive beads are placed close to the tumor. 3-D radiation beam therapy and intensity-modulated radiotherapy are tailored according to the tumor’s size and shape. Often, radiation is also considered as a first-line treatment of throat cancer.
  • Targeted Therapies: Several drugs are inferred with proteins and/or other cell receptors on cancerous cells.
  • Proton Therapy: Radiation is used with pencil beam technology targeting the cancerous cells and preserving nearby healthy tissues.
  • Cancer Clinical Trials: Experimental drugs or other suitable methods are used to enhance the chances of improving clinical symptoms of throat cancer.

Prevention of Throat Cancer – Is it Possible?

Although general screening of throat cancer is still not available, individuals at high risks should regularly consult their doctors if signs and symptoms are noticed. Individuals who smoke or drink periodically or those exposed to asbestos, HPV, sulfuric acid fumes, nickel, etc. are usually at high risk of developing throat cancer. Avoiding such situations can reduce the risk, but the prevention is not guaranteed at all. However, the HPV vaccine is one of the most effective preventive measures to minimize throat cancer chances, especially in young males and females.

What Kind of Specialists Treat Throat Cancer?

Most hospitals and cancer institutes go with the team approach to each patient affected with throat cancer. Usually, depending on the extent of cancer, a team of specialists for treating throat cancer may include:

  • Oncologists
  • Plastic Surgeons
  • Radiation Oncologists
  • Dentists
  • Swallowing Experts
  • Speech Pathologists
  • Dietitians
  • Therapists

The involvement of multiple doctors and specialists is the best way of treating and improving the survival rate. These specialists are also very good at identifying local support groups that can encourage patients and family members to deal positively with cancer and follow a healthy lifestyle.

Final Words

Throat cancer or any cancer is not easy at all to deal with. But the standard of medical science all around the world has improved a lot. And it is now easier than ever to overcome cancer, especially if diagnosed at an early stage. Keeping track of local signs and complications can play a critical role in identifying first throat cancer symptoms. You must consult a health professional without wasting any time to get proper treatment.

References

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/throat/throat-cancer-diagnosis/throat-cancer-stages

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/laryngeal-cancer/survival#:~:text=Stage%203, fixed%20and%20can’t%20move.

https://www.healthline.com/health/stage-4-throat-cancer-life-expectancy#:~:text=This%20means%20the%20cancer%20has,throat%20cancer%20is%2039.1%20percent.

https://www.medicinenet.com/larynx_cancer/article.htm#what_are_the_risk_factors_for_throat_cancer

https://www.murfreesborooralsurgery.com/blog/head-neck-cancer-self-exam-how-to/

Nail Care

Yellow Cuticles

Author Byaqilrl

Yellow cuticles are also known as yellow nail syndrome that is a rare condition caused by malformations which mostly affects finger nails and toe nails. These conditions may affect the lungs, swelling can be observed in some parts of body.

This yellow cuticle usually seen in adults who are older. This is the condition seen on nails the yellow coloured, thickened, and curved nails which almost stopped their growth. Loss of strip on skin at base or on sides of fingernail this condition may occur.

This syndrome is associated with accumulation of fluid in the membranes that are surrounded with lungs and also the lining of chest cavity. The lining of chest cavity is also known as pleural effusion. This effusion can cause shortness of breath, pain in chest, and cough related issues.

There may be may health issues occurring just because of the yellow cuticles the main issues are chronic infection, inflammation sensation while breathing and may also cause infection in lungs.

The one who are suffering from this yellow nail syndrome can have a back ground of respiratory problems before you observe any characteristics on nail findings. They may also notice swelling of arms and legs due to the accumulation of some fluids in the body which is known as lymph.

With this syndrome mainly legs are affected. The set of lymphedema may occur while you hit puberty. The areas on the body which are affected by lymphedema may feel heavy or tight at times. The cause of syndrome is not exactly known, in most cases they may occur for no reason. Some of the sources say that yellow nail syndrome is a genetic disorder.

Yellow skin around nails:

There are so many reasons to turn your nails into yellow colour making it look like a yellow nail paint. But that may be an infection or any underlying disease that made to turn your nails yellow.

Any changes can be noticed to your nails where it isn’t obvious like colour changes, crumbling, and thickening that should be get clarified by any dermatologist in case you feel like there is a need of it.

The sooner you notice the nails and figure out the cause of it, the sooner you can get back your fresh nails and your health back on the track.

There are several possible reasons to notice that yellow tint on your nails which dermatologists may share when you visit clinic. We are gonna share some of them here:

Wearing nail polish regularly can make your nails turn yellow. The dye that is used in the nail paint may interact with the keratin present in the nails which causes yellow discoloration and brittleness on your nails. Acetone present in the nail polish remover makes the condition even worse.

The upper part of your nail only gets affected so to get rid of this avoid nail polish and let your nails breathe for some time. In mean while the stained part will grow out. To prevent the yellow nails, apply a clear base coat before you apply any nail polish make sure you don’t always choose a dark coloured one.

The other reason to turn your nails is that fungal infection where fungus occupies the nail and thickens the nail by accumulation of debris under nail which makes to look yellow. Doctors can examine your nails and determine what type of fungus it is and treats you accordingly.

Also Read: Home Remedies for Upset Stomach and Diarrhea

Yellow fingernails vitamin deficiency:

The major reason for the cause of yellow nails is vitamin deficiency. Malnutrition affects the growth of nails and leads to yellow discoloration of nails. Blood tests helps in finding which vitamin deficiency are you suffering from. After it is known then use of required supplements for several weeks or months helps to overcome the vitamin deficiency.

Yellow Cuticles

The yellow nail syndrome is very rare condition and it can randomly happen to anyone and run in families. Along with yellow tinted nails one may also experience breathing problems, sinusitis and swelling in legs. This syndrome can be generally seen in middle aged people.

Thyroid disease may also lead to some nail issues like yellowing and thickening at the edge of nails. If a person is suffering from Diabetics, they are likely to have yellow nails as they tend to develop fungus in nails easily because of their compromised immune system.

If you suffering from any of the above problems you need to get checked them immediately with some blood tests done. While constant monitoring of these diseases the appearance of nails may improve in time.

If there is any vitamin deficiency or suffering from any health issues get medical help immediately as they may lead to several huge health issues in future. Visit clinic to get the tests done and determine from what your are suffering and use medications properly as advised by the doctor.

What causes nails to turn yellow:

As we have seen a lot of possibilities above that can cause your nails to turn yellow without any prior information. So, if you are doing any of the above-mentioned things or suffering from any disease you are likely to notice yellow tint on your nails to indicate the signs that something is happening with your body.

One of the most common things to cause yellow nails is fungal infection. At initial stages, if you don’t identify the infection this situation becomes worsen leading to yellow nails cause the nail bed may retract causing them to thicken and crumble. In some rare cases, yellow nails indicate the most serious situation like thyroid disease, lung disease, and diabetics.

If you notice yellow nails try curing them from the beginning itself because as time is passing the situation may become even worsen.

How to get rid of yellow nails:

There are several home remedies available that you can use for making your yellow nails to turn whiten at home.

You can use denture cleaners to get rid of stain on your nails by soaking them in the denture cleanser as it contains dilute sodium hypochlorite which is mild beach so, it works on any surface to remove stains.

You can also soak your nails in hydrogen peroxide combined with baking soda. This mixture works wonders as stain remover. Dip your nails into this solution for 10 mins then wash your hands with clean water by using soap after that pat dry your nails and apply mild moisturizer to make look them soften.

At times lemon juice can also work wonders on your nails along with soapy water to get rid of stains. The acidic properties in the lemon juice will start dissolving the stain particles from nails. Soak your nails in this solution for 5 mins and wash your hands with clean water later on, apply a mild moisturizer.

Use white vinegar to get rid of stains on your nails. Coloured vinegars may even stain the nails so try using white vinegar. As the mild acid present in vinegar reacts against the stains and help in getting rid of them. Soak your nails in vinegar for 8 to 10 minutes and them wash with clean water dab on some moisturizer.

Scrub your nails very often to get rid of all the dirt particles present on the nails or under the cuticles. You can do this once in every week for good results.

The above is some of the most commonly used home-made remedies to get rid of the yellow stains on nails. As many people don’t tend to show interest on the yellow stained nails as they don’t always look nicer.

This yellow nail syndrome may equally affect both males and females in same numbers. More and more are being reported every year with this medical condition. While this condition is popularly occurring in older aged adults as they have several health issues in their old ages.

How to get diagnosed?

The diagnosis of this yellow nail syndrome can be done based on the clinical evaluation making a way to detailed patient history of previous health problems and identification of several characteristics leading to cause yellow nails.

To get treated in proper there is a need to find the symptoms causing the yellow coloured nails that are noticed in each individual. Treatment may include several different types of therapies whereas antibiotic therapies is recommended for respiratory infections. These yellow coloured nails can also be improved without any medications or doctor’s therapy where these changes may be permanent in some cases.

Vitamin E plays a very important role in getting rid of the yellow nail syndrome. Do not use any medications on your own get a suggestion from your doctor before using any of the medications as they may cause side effects.

Always get tested and determine the cause of changes happening in your body at early stages to avoid any serious health conditions causing in long run. Focus on your health majorly than any other thing.

There is no need to panic about any health disease if you can notice any health issue in early stage. Every disease is curable in its starting stages of life. After all, health is the most important thing that is to be taken care of.

Have a good life!

Eat healthy to stay healthy!!

Health Care

Intolerance to Eggs – What it is? What Are the Symptoms and Treatment?

Author Byaqilrl

If you have an intolerance to eggs, you may find it difficult to digest them. You may suffer from various complaints, including stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, bloating, and abdominal cramps, etc. It is surely not a serious complication but can make your day bothersome and uncomfortable. Then, how to get rid of stomach pain after eating eggs?

We will answer then and more in this article. We will try to cover what an intolerance to eggs is, why you have it, what are various symptoms of egg intolerance, and how to treat these symptoms at home when to see a doctor, and much more. Let’s uncover a bit more about intolerance to eggs.

What is Egg Intolerance?

You may develop intolerance to any food and at any stage of your life. As we know, different foods contain different components. There are very high chances that your body is unable to digest whites or yolks or both. It is an adverse response to your body when you consume eggs. The intolerance to eggs can last for very long, even for years.

When you have an intolerance to eggs, you may experience digestive troubles including abdominal bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and vomiting, etc.

How is Egg Intolerance Different from Egg Allergy?

As we said, intolerance to eggs means that your body reacts abysmally to components of egg, like albumen, proteins, minerals, or carbohydrates. In such a case, you may find it difficult to digest various other foods like dairy foods, gluten, and soy, etc.

Egg intolerance is completely different from an egg allergy, which is usually caused by an abnormal immune response to egg proteins.

People with an intolerance to eggs are unable to digest egg whites, yolks, or both and may develop various digestive complaints. On the other hand, with an egg allergy, the immune system treats egg an invader and starts releasing some powerful chemicals whenever your body gets in contact with eggs.

Egg intolerance is not as serious a problem as an egg allergy. Egg allergy can cause some severe and at times, life-threatening symptoms which usually appear within half an hour of exposure to eggs.

With an egg allergy, a person may notice some weird responses from the body. And may suffer from a wide range of problems including severe vomiting, the sudden appearance of rashes on the skin, etc. Severe allergy to eggs can be very dangerous, as the immune response may trigger even from touching the eggs or inhaling or smalling egg particles.

Egg tolerance is very common and especially notices in people with a weak digestive system. But an egg allergy is not as common.

What Are the Symptoms of Egg Intolerance?

Intolerance of eggs is more about your gastrointestinal tracts than any other organ. And hence, egg intolerance symptoms are very similar to common GIT problems, and they are:

  • Abdominal pain, cramping and bloating
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and Vomiting

In some cases, people also get a headache, or very rarely a sense of fogginess. Symptoms of egg allergy are immediate, and those of intolerance may take several hours and even days to develop.

Also Read: Home Remedies for Upset Stomach and Diarrhea

Why do eggs give me diarrhea?

If you usually get diarrhea after eating eggs, there may be some other underlying condition, or maybe, your body is not getting some required nutrients from foods. You may suffer from diarrhea due to eggs if you are not getting enough fiber from your diet. As there are almost no carbohydrates in eggs, a diet low in fiber can cause intolerance to eggs, and you may suffer from diarrhea.

An infection from salmonella can also be a reason why you get diarrhea from eating eggs. Contaminated foods, including eggs, can cause salmonella infection.

What’s the solution? You should try adding more fiber to your diet. And some great sources of fibers are potatoes, breads, oatmeal, nuts, and barley, etc. Always ensure washing eggs properly before cooking.

How is Egg Intolerance Diagnosed?

It is pretty easy to diagnose allergies thanks to the availability of a wide range of allergy tests like skin prick tests and blood tests.

Doctors try to find the antibodies in your blood to successfully make the diagnosis of egg intolerance. But right now, there is no approved test to diagnose egg intolerance successfully.

You can try to diagnose intolerance to eggs by tracking your symptoms after eating eggs. And writing a diary is the best way to do it. You may have to wait for symptoms to appear, as they are not always immediate. You may have to write down the appearance of symptoms, and how long they remain. Also, keep an eye on other foods as well. You might be wrong with your observation about intolerance to egg. Noting down your symptoms regularly is not only very affordable but is more accurate as well.

Your doctor can make a conclusion based on when the symptoms and how long they remain. It will take a few weeks to finally find if you have an egg intolerance.

What Are the Treatment Options for Egg Intolerance?

Avoiding eggs completely is the best and most effective treatment of egg intolerance.

Your doctor may ask you to follow an “elimination diet” to essentially avoid eggs completely for six to eight weeks. Tracking your symptoms over the course, and bringing back eggs very slowly to your diet will help you to find whether you are still intolerant to eggs.

Not only the egg whites, but you may also have to eliminate egg yolks for a few weeks. Your doctor may suggest avoiding dishes that are cooked with eggs like cakes, pancakes, biscuits, and other bakery items prepared with eggs.

Identifying egg products is one of the most important aspects of treating egg intolerance. You should develop a habit of reading the labels of food packages before purchasing them. Here are some common food ingredients that usually contain eggs.

  • Egg whites, egg yolks, dried or powdered eggs
  • Apovitellin
  • Albumin
  • Globulin
  • Lysozyme
  • Livetin
  • Ovoglobulin
  • Ovalbumin
  • Ovomucoid
  • Ovomucin
  • Ovo vitellin
  • Ovovitelia
  • Simplesse
  • Vitellin
  • Siliciabuminate

You can avoid problems from egg intolerance if you can look for certified vegan products. Vegan products don’t contain eggs or any other product from animal sources.

What Are Some Healthy Egg Alternatives?

If you have some certain egg intolerance symptoms, and you need to avoid eggs completely, you can include these alternatives to your diet.

  • Tofu

Tofu is made from soybeans and is one of the greatest sources of proteins. You can replace eggs with tofu and can use for breakfast, sandwiches, blending, or scrambling with smoothies. The Internet is flooded with a lot of tasty and healthy tofu dishes. Find out some and try to add in your diet.

  • Chia or Flax Seeds

Flax or chia seeds with water can be another healthy alternative to eggs for baking purposes.  You can replace one egg with one tbsp of seeds with 2.5 tbsp of water, and add in your recipes to make them fluffy, and tasty.

  • Applesauce and Pureed Fruits

Applesauce and other pureed fruits like banana can also be a very good alternative to eggs for baking purposes. Fruits contain pectin, which is a very healthy replacement of animal fats and is used as a stabilizer, thickener, filler, and gelling agent.

You can prepare different types of cakes, breads, buns, and other bakery items with unsweetened applesauce.

  • Aquafaba

If you are confirmed about egg intolerance, you can try aquafaba, especially as a replacement for egg whites. Aquafaba is a liquid you get from cooking different legumes, including chickpeas.

  • Vegan egg replacers

There are various egg replacers made from nuts, seeds, plant-based starches, and soy available in the market.

How to get rid of stomach pain after eating eggs?

If you get stomach pain after eating eggs, you can try these home remedies to get quick relief

  • Chamomile Tea: It works as an anti-inflammatory agent, and can ease stomach pain by relaxing smooth stomach muscles
  • Mint: Mint can also relax stomach muscles. In addition, it can soothe the irritated and inflamed stomach and improves digestion.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Thanks to its antibiotic and anti-inflammatory nature, ACV can also improve stomach ache.
  • Lime: Due to its acidic nature, lime effectively stimulates the digestive system, bile juices, and other acids. And hence, improves stomach aches and cramps.
  • Heat Pad: You can place a heating pad or hot pack on your abdomen to feel better when down with stomach ache after eating eggs. A warm bath can also be an effective way of treating stomach aches.

Intolerance to eggs is not a serious condition and can be managed easily at home. Hopefully, you are now very well aware of this condition and are in good space to understand the difference between egg intolerance and egg allergy. While these tips may help you to feel better, you should get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional. You might be getting stomach aches due to some other reasons as well. If the intolerance to eggs is confirmed, avoiding eggs for a few weeks is recommended.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/egg-intolerance#alternatives

https://www.healthline.com/health/food-safety/egg-intolerance#symptoms

https://www.quora.com/Why-do-eggs-cause-diarrhea

Health Care

Oral Thrush – All You Need to Know

Author Byaqilrl

Also called “oral candidiasis”, oral thrush is an infection caused by the genus Candida and affects the mucous membrane of your mouth. How do you get oral thrush? Fungi like Candida Albicans, Candida Tropicalis, and Candida Glabrata are responsible for the infection

Oral thrush is usually not a serious condition and improves within a few days with simple home remedies. The outcome is generally very good too! However, people with a weak immune system can have very severe signs and symptoms of candida infection. It tends to reappear in people who are habitual of alcohol consumption and smoking.

In this write-up, we will let you know everything about oral thrush, including various causes, symptoms, and treatment, etc.

Some Facts You Should Know About Oral Thrush

  • Oral thrush is a very common condition and doesn’t usually cause major complications.
  • People having a weak immune system can get affected very easily, and develop severe symptoms.
  • Recurrence of oral thrush is common after chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
  • Factors like wearing dentures, using steroids, and having diabetes are commonly linked with oral thrush.
  • A creamy, white-colored layer in the mouth is one of the most obvious symptoms of oral thrush.

What causes oral thrush in adults?

Your body is a house in very tiny quantities of a different genus of Candida Fungi. They survive in different parts of your body including the stomach, mouth, skin, and digestive tract, etc. without causing any problem whatsoever. However, people with a weak immune system, under certain medications, certain diseases, are prone to the Candida infection when they grow uncontrollably.

What Are Different Symptoms of Candida Infections?

Thick, creamy deposits on the tongue and the mucous membrane of the mouth is the major symptom of infection.

Some other accompanying symptoms are:

  • Slightly red, a swollen mucous membrane with raised patches accompanied by burning.
  • Bleeding when the deposits are scraped.
  • Change in the size, area and color of the deposits.
  • Redness and soreness of tongue and gums, especially in people who wear dentures regularly.

Symptoms of Oral Thrush in Infants:

  • Oral thrush in infants is usually mistaken for milk curds. The patches of oral thrush stick to the tongue and mouth and are not removable easily.
  • Soreness of mouth with difficulty swallowing
  • Diaper rash, as the infection-causing fungi will be in baby’s stool as well.
  • The baby is unable to eat due to excessive soreness of the mouth and throat. Sometimes, it is mistaken for the lack of hunger or poor supply of mother’s milk.

Classification of Oral Thrush Based on Appearance

  • Pseudomembranous – The classic, and most common type of oral thrush appearing as there is a new layer of the membrane inside the mouth.
  • Erythematous –Red and raw appearance of the mucous membrane
  • Hyperplastic – The least common variant, suggesting serious infection. It is also known as “plaque-like candidiasis” or “nodular candidiasis” and is due to the accumulation of solid white plaque which becomes hard with time.

How long does oral thrush last without treatment?

Usually, the cases of oral thrush are mild and go away with antifungal mouth rinse or lozenges. Very mild cases of infection are improved within a couple of weeks without treatment. However, you may have to take an oral antifungal medicine in the second week itself to improve the symptoms. In some cases, the symptoms don’t go away in several weeks even after treatment.

Also Read: Home Remedies for Upset Stomach and Diarrhea

If the infection is not treated for a few weeks, it may start affecting other parts of the body, including oesophagus, throat, skin, and even vagina and anus in very rare and severe cases.

Recurrence of oral thrush is seen in people who:

  • Use corticosteroids to treat asthma
  • Take antibiotics for a very long time
  • Have a weak immune system
  • Have artificial teeth

Is oral thrush contagious?

No, it is not contagious. Yes, the yeast or fungi can spread from person to person, but if you get in touch with someone having oral thrush, you won’t get the infection only by coming into contact.

Oral Thrush and Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding can also be one of the rare cases of oral thrush. Candida infection can affect any part of your body, including breasts and nipples. But the infection can’t develop until you have an infection on the skin. You can identify the candida infection if there are more redness and soreness than usual.

If your nipples or breasts are infected, especially during breastfeeding, the fungi may transmit to your baby. Your baby may not necessarily get the infection through breastfeeding. However, if your baby already has excessive yeast in the mouth, the risk of developing oral thrush is increased.

And similarly, if your baby is affected with oral thrush, you may get fungus from the baby’s mouth to your nipples. And, again, it doesn’t mean, you will develop an infection unless you have a very weak immune system.

So, breastfeeding is usually completely safe whether you or your baby have oral thrush.

Home remedies to get rid of oral thrush

You can treat mild cases of oral thrush with home remedies, and without visiting a doctor. The following are some effective home remedies for mild oral thrush. Don’t rely only on these remedies if the condition doesn’t improve in a week or so.

1. Baking Soda

Washing your mouth with sodium carbonate may help you to get rid of oral thrush. Although baking soda is not among the best natural disinfectants, it can be a safe and viable natural alternative.

To use:

  • Add half tbsp of baking soda to one cup of warm water and dissolve properly.
  • Take a sip of the solution and swish in your mouth for a few seconds before spitting out.

2. Saltwater

Saltwater contains cleansing, antiseptic, and soothing properties, and can be a very effective home remedy for a wide range of oral complaints.

Rinsing your mouth with salt water can be helpful to improve the symptoms of oral thrush

To Use:

  • Add half tbsp of salt to one cup of warm water and dissolve.
  • Swish salt water in your mouth and spit out after a few seconds.

3. Yogurt

Yogurt is one of the best sources of “good” bacteria and can easily be among the best home remedies to get rid of oral thrush.

Bacteria cultures in yogurt don’t necessarily kill Candida but can stop the growth and control infection. It can also maintain a decent balance of good bacteria in your mouth. Yogurt is very soft, and can also be a good food option if you are having difficulty swallowing due to infection.

To Improve Symptoms

  • Add a bowl of yogurt to your diet, preferably to breakfast when you get early signs of oral thrush.
  • Probiotic supplements are good alternatives for those who don’t like yogurt or have allergies to it.

4. Lemon Juice

Thanks to its antiseptic and antifungal prowess, lemon juice can get rid of infection-causing fungi

  • Add the juice of half a lemon to one cup of water.
  • Add honey as a taste enhancer and drink or use to rinse your mouth.

5. Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed extract can be effective against various ailments. And due to its antifungal properties, it becomes one of the potent home remedies to get rid of oral thrush. Regular usage of the grape seed extract can also boost your immune system and prevent the chances of recurrence of fungal infections.

  • Get 250 mg grape seed extract supplement from a nearby medical or grocery store.
  • Consume this thrice daily until you notice positive results.

6. Pineapple Juice

Pineapple juice is not only refreshing and tangy; it can control the growth of fungus in your mouth thanks to its acidic nature. It contains bromelain and hence is effective in breaking down the debris and thick white layer formed inside the mouth.

  • Cut a few slices of pineapples into small pieces
  • Chew the pieces numerous times a day to give quick relief to oral thrush symptoms.
Natural remedies for oral thrush in babies:

Babies are usually susceptible to the infection mainly due to a weak immune system, and you need to give some special treatment if your baby got oral thrush. Here are some effective remedies for oral thrush in babies.

You can use mild natural remedies like coconut oil, saltwater, and yogurt, etc. to help your baby overcome Candida infection. Instead of giving them for drinking or eating, you should apply these home remedies to affected areas using a cotton swab. That’s the most effective way of easing mild oral thrushes in babies.

If the condition doesn’t improve within a few days, you should not waste any time and visit pediatrics for proper antifungal treatment.

Oral thrush is not a serious complication until it is managed in the early days. If goes untreated, it can spread to other internal body parts, mainly the esophagus, and cause some very severe symptoms. We tried to discuss everything about oral thrush, including some very effective natural remedies. Hopefully, you are now very well on how to get rid of oral thrush when it is in an early stage. If the infection becomes moderate from mild, you may have to get some antifungal and even antibiotic medications. And hence, proper treatment under medical supervision is advised.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/is-thrush-contagious

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178864

https://www.cigna.com/individuals-families/health-wellness/hw/medical-topics/thrush-hw139068#hw139112

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/oral-thrush-in-adults#:~:text=Oral%20thrush%20is%20a%20fungal,group%20of%20yeasts%20called%20Candida.

https://www.parents.com/baby/health/thrush/home-remedies-for-thrush-in-babies/#:~:text=Diluted%20baking%20soda%20(sodium%20bicarbonate,the%20mother’s%20nipples%20before%20breastfeeding.

https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/simple-home-remedies-for-oral-thrush/#LemonJuice

Health Care

Neck Pain – Possible Causesand How to Relieve at Home

Author Byaqilrl

You are trying to leave your bed in the morning, but finding it so difficult due to a stiffed and painful neck! Or all of a sudden, you are unable to rotate your head around due to aching neck pain! And you are looking for answers to “how to relieve neck pain”!

It is a very common lifestyle problem and can affect almost everyone on every other day. Factors like sitting with the wrong posture, wrong exercise, strain at physical work, wrong sleeping position – all can play their part in making your neck stiffed and painful.

Vertebrae extending from your skull to upper torso complete the structure of your neck, and there are cervical disks to absorb external shock between the bones. The bones, muscles, and ligaments of your neck provide support to your head and ensure proper motion. Any inflammation, abnormalities, or injury can impact your neck and make your day very uncomfortable.

Neck pain due to lifestyle errors is not something serious, but it can be if caused by contact sports, injury from fall, or whiplash, and needs proper treatment. Let’s find out more about neck pain.

Possible Causes of Neck Pain

There are various causes of neck pain, including:

  • Poor sitting posture
  • Sitting on working chair for very long without changing position
  • Wrong movement of neck during exercise
  • Sleeping in the wrong position
  • Injury

Your neck is almost always vulnerable to injury, especially if you are frequently involved in sports and other physical activities. Extra pressure on the neck while running, sudden wrong movement of the neck in the gym, or a car accident can severely affect your neck muscles and ligaments. In short, you may feel neck pain due to injury when your muscles and ligaments are forced to do the unwanted and unnatural movement.

  • Fracture of neck bones due to a massive accident can be extremely dangerous and is usually coupled with serious damage to the spinal cord.
  • Heart Attack

Prolonged neck pain can be one of the rare signals of possible heart attack, but it usually noticed with some other symptoms, including:

  • Arm or jaw pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

If you suffer from neck pain with these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention to at least discount the possibility of something really serious.

Also Read: How to Relieve Shoulder Blade Pain

  • Meningitis

Meningitis is the inflammation of your meninges – the protective tissues around your brain and spinal cord. People with meningitis may have complications like throbbing headache, often with severe neck pain.

Some other causes of neck pain are:

Pressure on the spinal cord due to conditions like spinal stenosis.

  • Protrusion of the cervical disk due to injury or trauma.
  • Degeneration of cervical disks also called “spondylosis”.
  • Muscle pain all over the body in case of fibromyalgia.
  • Inflamed and painful joints due to rheumatoid arthritis.
  • The weakness of bones in case of prolonged and untreated osteoporosis.
  • Congenital abnormalities
  • Spinal cancer
  • Abscesses due to severe infections

When to See a Doctor?

The symptoms of neck pain, including the painful movement of neck and shoulder, headache, muscle spasm, etc. are improved gradually with rest and other home treatments. But you should seek medical help in case of:

  • The pain is severe
  • Accompanied continuously be numbness, headache, weakness, or tingling
  • Lump around the neck
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fever
  • Sudden and severe neck pain without an apparent cause
  • Pain doesn’t improve for a few days
  • Pain radiating to the arms or legs
  • Difficulty while touching the chin to chest
  • Dysfunction of bladder or bowel

If you suffer from an accident or fall, you must get proper medical help as quickly as possible

What are the treatments?

Treatment of neck pain depends on the cause and severity. Your doctor may ask for certain investigations, including X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, also, to complete medical history to find the exact cause(s) of pain. Depending on the results of medical history and investigations, you may get different types of treatments, including:

  • Physical therapy like exercises and stretching
  • Cold and heat therapy
  • Pain medications
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Neck Color (especially in case of an injury)
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Traction
  • Antibiotics in case if the pain is due to an infection
  • Hospital treatment if the pain is due to heart attack or meningitis
  • Surgery.

Alternative therapies like:

  • Massage
  • Acupuncture
  • Chiropractic treatment
  • Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS)
How to Improve Neck Pain at Home – Home Remedies for Neck Pain

Reaching out for painkillers is always not the best idea, as you can treat mild to moderate neck pain with very simple remedies and techniques. Here are some very effective and easy home remedies for neck pain.

  • Massage: Massage has been effective in improving muscular pains and stiffness. And having a calming and relaxing massage is always a better option than painkilling drugs. And if you can add a few drops of essential oil to your regular massage oil, you can get rid of neck pain without much fuss. Massage warms up the stiff muscles, improves the blood circulation around the painful area, and reduces the pain within a few minutes.
  • Getting help from your buddy or partner is the best idea. Otherwise, you can also book a physical therapy session with a physiotherapist or spa expert.
  • Ice Packs: Ice packs are also very effective in healing mild to moderate pain. All you need to do is to crush a few pieces of ice and wrap them in a rubber bag. Put a clean towel or any other cloth on the painful area and apply the ice packs gently. You will feel the effects within a few minutes, and the pain will start fading away. Ice pack treatment is especially helpful when you have a painful neck due to sudden stress while playing or exercising.
  • Heat Pads: You can find heat pads very easily at pharmacies or departmental stores. Apply the hot pads directly on the painful neck, and your pain will start fading away within the first couple of minutes. Heat pads work similarly to massage and reduce inflammation and pain by improving blood circulation. Just take care of the right brand and choose the appropriate pad.
  • Exercise: Exercise can be one of the reasons for your painful neck. But it can also be effective to manage the pain very effectively as well. Some movements are proved very helpful in reducing neck pain. You can try moving your stiffed or painful neck in a circular motion or move it forwards and backward very slowly. If you feel comfortable, start with 8-10 slow motions in different directions. If the pain increases with a few movements, stop it immediately to prevent further damage to your neck. You can get in touch with a professional physiotherapist to ask for some effective neck exercises. Otherwise, talk to a doctor for proper treatment of neck pain. 
  • Warm Shower: Warm water shower is an ideal treatment for almost all types of body pains. And can be amazingly effective in case of neck pain as well. Have a warm water shower for five to ten minutes. The warm water will improve blood circulation and will help you feel better. And having a warm water shower in the morning is always a very good idea to have an energetic day and as well as restful sleep.
  • Epsom Salts: Sprinkling some Epsom salts to your bathwater is another very good idea to manage neck pain. It is surely a treat to bath with Epsom salt in water. Thanks to its magnesium and sulfate contents, Epsom salt reduces muscular tension and rest. Also, they can improve the regulation of certain enzymes in your body and give you natural relief from neck pain.

How to relieve neck pain from sleeping wrong?

Neck pain from sleeping wrong is a common problem, and you can get rid of it by some over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and naproxen. Self-massage and gentle stretching are also very effective to improve pain when it is in the initial stage. Start with very little, gentle stretching and increase with the flexibility and improvement in pain. If you are unable to move your neck due to excessive pain, you should book an appointment with your doctor.

What is the best position to sleep with neck pain?

Sometimes, pain can remain for a weak or two, and that’s not something to be worried about. However, little things can make a lot of difference, and one of them is your sleeping position for neck pain. Sleeping in an upright position is very effective in both back and neck pain. You can buy a horseshoe-shaped pillow for comfortable support for your neck.

Neck pain is very common, and you should go into the overthinking mode, especially in the initial days. Try these DIY remedies and techniques to get rid of the pain. And if you don’t find any relief at all even after a few days, we recommend you talk to your doctor to find the exact cause and proceed with the treatment accordingly.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20375581

https://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/neck-pain/home-treatments-neck-pain

https://www.healthline.com/symptom/neck-pain#home-remedies

https://edisonspinecenter.com/sleeping-positions-for-back-and-neck-pain/#:~:text=Best%20Sleeping%20Positions%20for%20Neck,pillow%20to%20cushion%20your%20head.

https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/neck-pain/how-treat-stiff-neck-after-sleeping

Health Care

How to Relieve Shoulder Blade Pain

Author Byaqilrl

How to relieve shoulder blade pain easily at home? How and when it gets serious? What are the possible causes? Let’s find the answers to these questions and a few more.

Also known as “interscapular pain,” pain between shoulder blades is very common. You may have aching, sore, dull, and shooting pain at the mid-back of your shoulder blades.

Usually, there is nothing serious about it, and it gets better in a few days. However, it can also be a sign of some more serious health conditions. Although it is not serious, it can surely disturb the quality of your life. Read on to find everything about shoulder blade pain.

What are the possible causes?

There may be various possible causes of shoulder blade pain. An injured muscle or tendon usually causes the pain, and the injury may cause due to:

  • Wrong exercise
  • Heavy lifting
  • Poor sitting position
  • Prolonged hours of working at computers
  • Muscle strain while sleeping.

Injuries to other different body parts like spine fracture, rotator cuff tears, or any type of injury due to trauma can also be responsible for pain at shoulder blades. Some other but rare causes of pain are:

  • Osteoarthritis of ribs, spine, neck
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Acid reflux
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Scoliosis
  • Shingles
  • Myofascial pain syndrome
  • Nerve compression
  • Certain cancers like lymphomas, lung cancer, liver cancer, bone cancer, mesothelioma, oesophageal cancer, etc.
  • Gallstone

Shoulder blade pain can also be one of the heart attack symptoms, especially in women’s cases. It may be accompanied by other signs like shortness of breath and chest pain. If you suffer from these three symptoms at a time, you should not waste any time and seek immediate medical attention.

At times, sharp, severe pain in the upper-middle back is also a sign of rupture to the thoracic aorta. In such a case, the patient may suffer from severe pain and is more often than not a medical emergency.

Pulmonary embolism is another very serious condition and can be a factor responsible for shoulder blade pain. People with pulmonary embolism may complain about a sudden, sharp pain at the shoulder blade. It happens when the blood clots in the legs are breaking down and travel to the lungs. One of the major symptoms of pulmonary embolism is shortness of breath, and it also needs immediate medical attention.

When should you see a doctor?

When you suffer from severe, unusual pain for more than a couple of weeks, you should get in touch with a qualified medical practitioner. Persistent pain can be a sign of something wrong you are unable to find. Whether or not your condition is serious, if it doesn’t go away after a couple of weeks. So, it’s better to get medical attention instead of waiting for something serious.

If you develop shoulder blade pain along with some other symptoms, chances are of something really serious. It may even become life-threatening and require prompt medical attention. You should get immediate medical attention if the pain is accompanied by:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Excessive sweating
  • Chest pain
  • Cough with blood
  • Light-headedness or vertigo
  • Pain, redness, or swelling in the legs
  • Loss of vision
  • High fever
  • Sudden difficulty speaking
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Paralysis of any part of the body

Treatment for shoulder blade pain will be decided according to the exact cause and severity. And recovery time will also depend on the condition and causative factor(s).

Home remedies

The condition can be managed with home remedies if there is no other major complication. Here are some home remedies for shoulder and neck pain; you can try to get some relief.

Exercise

Physical exercise is very important to follow a healthy life. But it can also be effective to strengthen your shoulder and back and may relieve acute pain. We recommend a few exercises like pullups, push-ups, and sit-ups, to improve pain initially.

Stretching

Stretching techniques like Yoga can also effectively improve pain by managing blood circulation through better mobility.

Also Read: Is Apple Cider Vinegar Really Good Against Shingles?

You can try this stretching exercise for shoulder blade pain.

  • Cross one arm over the body.
  • Pull your elbow using the other hand towards your chest, and hold for about 10 seconds.

Diet and Regimen

Some foods can increase the inflammation and hence pain. You should avoid processed foods and add a lot of fruits and vegetables to your diet. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, are also helpful in improving the condition.

Rest

Sometimes, rest is more than enough to recover from shoulder blade pain, especially if developed due to injury or exercise.

Cold or Hot Therapy

Cold or hot compresses in the affected areas can also be a solution. Repeat cold or hot compress every two hours for fifteen minutes to relieve discomfort

Massage

A professional therapist can help you overcome the pain by working between your shoulder blades to relax the stiffed muscles.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is effective in case of pain due to a compressed or injured nerve. The therapist will help you to perform certain physical exercises targeting the affected muscles and tissues.

Epsom Salt Bath

Epsom salt contains magnesium and, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can give some relief to your shoulder blades.

How to get Epsom salt bath:

  • Add one cup of Epsom salt to your bathwater and dissolve for a couple of minutes.
  • Soak yourself in the bath for 15-20 minutes to feel the calming and pain-relieving effects of Epsom.

Kinesiology Tape

Using kinesiology tapes to relieve shoulder blade pain is also a great ideal. It is used to control the movements of the scapular region to avoid shoulder pain. The function of this medicated tape is to support the injured shoulder during movement. It is also great short-term pain management but is recommended for acute pains only.

What You Need

  • A kinesiology tape from a renowned brand

Steps to use the tape

  • Put the tape across the muscles of your shoulder griddle (You can get help from someone for proper placement).
  • Watching a tutorial or seeking help from a therapist isn’t a bad idea, either.
  • Keep it for four to five days or until you feel better.
  • You can also reuse the tape for a few months.

OTC Medications

Over the counter medications for shoulder blade pain can also be effective, especially there are mild symptoms. OTC medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, etc. may improve the condition.

When you need surgery?

Surgery is very rarely recommended for this condition. As many as 90 percent of patients get better by nonsurgical treatment like exercises, medications, rest, etc. But your doctor may advise for in case if the condition is caused by an injury and is not improving after prolonged treatment. The doctor may remove minor scar tissues or repair tendons in the affected area.

Chances of Prognosis

Prognosis is very good in the case of shoulder blade pain. However, if there is severe chronic pain, the prognosis also depends on the duration and severity of pain.

More often than not, it is a temporary condition and goes away with a combination of treatment and rest. However, some people may live the whole of their life with the pain!

Some Prevention Tips

Instead of knowing how to help shoulder blade pain, you are better if you know how to prevent this condition. Here are some prevention tips:

  • Always maintain good posture: Posture matters a lot! Bad posture can affect your body very heavily. Always stand or sit tall. Avoid slouching as much as possible. An ergonomic chair or a special pillow can help you maintain your posture if you have sitting work.
  • Avoid long sitting hours: Don’t sit continuously for hours, even if you have a sitting work. Take a break now and then, and walk around for a few minutes.
  • Avoid lifting very heavy items: Heavy lifting is also one of the major causes of shoulder blade pain. Don’t carry heavy bags on your shoulder. And if you have to lift something very heavy, don’t do it alone, and avoid so much pressure on your back.
  • Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Lifestyle changes can go a long way in dealing with shoulder pain. Try to get a healthy and wholesome diet, get proper sleep of six to eight hours, and do regular physical exercises.

Pain between your shoulder blades is mainly because of bad lifestyle habits. You can surely avoid it to a decent extent. And now, you have some very effective methods to improve mild to moderate pain. If you have severe pain for more than a few days, we recommend you visit a qualified doctor to find the exact cause and start proper treatment.

References:

https://www.spine-health.com/blog/relieving-pain-under-your-shoulder-blade

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/shoulder-pain-and-common-shoulder-problems

https://www.healthline.com/health/shoulder-blade-pain#prevention