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7 bad iPhone habits to break today

7 bad iPhone habits to break today
iPhones are among the most sold smartphones, with Apple launching a new variant every year. In fact, with roughly 1.5 billion users globally, Apple is one of the leading brands in the technology space. Many users pay attention to the guidelines and recommendations from Apple. But many disregard these suggestions and, in the process, develop habits that affect the phone’s overall performance and health. Here are some bad iPhone usage habits to overcome: 1. Not updating the phone Software updates are critical to protecting your iPhone from security threats. These updates include essential performance improvements, bug fixes, and security patches that protect the phone and its data. You should never delay or skip downloading timely updates. 2. Not using iCloud backup iCloud is a useful service for Apple users to upload and create a backup of their phone data. A backup is essential if you lose your contacts, messages, photos, and videos to a software glitch or malware attack that erases the internal memory. You must enable iTunes and iCloud automatic backup features. 3. Ignoring app permissions Apple iOS has a strict firmware protocol that safeguards app usage and permissions for accessing and modifying files on the phone. You should periodically check the permissions granted to apps, especially ones that request storage and location services to run in the background.

5 bad smartphone habits to break with senior phones

5 bad smartphone habits to break with senior phones
Cell phones have become an indispensable part of daily lives, helping serve several functions, from communication to information provision. However, this regular dependence on phones can lead to negative health effects. So, when it comes to phone usage, it is important to break certain bad habits. For certain populations, some of these habits can be broken by switching to a senior phone with basic functionalities and a simplified user interface. Excessive screen time One of the most common issues when it comes to phone usage is excessive screen time. Using senior-friendly phones with fewer distractions can help limit this time. As most of these phones are only equipped with basic features such as calling and texting, they can help users stay connected while eliminating the need for phone usage throughout the day. Overlooking privacy concerns With widespread internet connectivity, digital privacy is now more important than ever. Seniors may be more vulnerable to privacy breaches on regular smartphones. Switching to senior phones can help, as they come with simplified password protection and privacy settings to allow enhanced data protection. Ineffective utilization Smartphone interfaces can be tough to use for many due to the size of the virtual keyboards, leading to improper utilization of these devices.

4 common mistakes to avoid when doing laundry

4 common mistakes to avoid when doing laundry
Doing laundry is an essential task in any household. Although it may seem straightforward, it requires attention to ensure that clothes are thoroughly and properly cleaned. To achieve the best results and maintain the quality of the garments, it is essential to avoid some common laundry mistakes. By avoiding these mistakes, one can transform their clothes and make them look fresh. Let’s look closely at some common laundry mistakes that should be avoided. Adding extra detergents A cupful of laundry detergent is enough to get a load of laundry done. It can get off the dirt and grime even from the most odorous pile of clothes. However, individuals sometimes use more than necessary to get cleaner clothes. Doing so can leave their laundry loads unclean. It can leave residue on the clothes and might even damage the washer. Not pretreating stains To ensure the successful removal of stains from clothing, it is essential to pretreat them before tossing them in the washing machine. Pretreating can be done using cold water, a preferred detergent, or a stain remover. After pretreating, the clothing can be washed using a regular cycle. Failure to pretreat stains may result in unsuccessful removal during the wash cycle, leaving the stain behind.

7 key benefits of using autoclavable mouthpieces

7 key benefits of using autoclavable mouthpieces
Dental procedures can be painful and time-consuming, not to mention quite uncomfortable for the patients if they have to keep their mouth open without any support. Therefore, dentists use a molded mouthpiece that helps improve access and provides a more sterile environment to perform complicated dental procedures safely. Here are some key benefits of autoclavable mouthpieces that explain why this is a value-added purchase for dental professionals to buy and incorporate into their daily consultations. Benefits of using autoclavable mouthpieces There are many advantages of using this technology for getting dental procedures done. Better visibility The autoclavable mouthpiece is simple to use and easy to install. It has a special cheek retractor that allows the patient’s cheeks to stay retracted and improve visibility while performing micro dental procedures. Better airway protection The design and shape of the mouthpiece also protect the airway from particulate matter that can get dislodged during a dental procedure and go down the airway. Also, a dedicated tongue shield prevents any injury or trauma to the oral pathway when using sharp instruments. Bite block guard One of the highlight features of an autoclavable mouthpiece is the bite block that comes with adjustable sizes. So, patients can comfortably use the device with adjustable settings that allow maximum room and comfort.

15 common mistakes to avoid when working from home

15 common mistakes to avoid when working from home
Working from home comes with its challenges and, of course, some benefits. On one side, you avoid the hassle of traveling, getting ready for work, and preparing for a daily routine working remotely. Conversely, you are also in unfamiliar territory, sharing a new workspace with family members. So naturally, there could be a lot of friction during the first few weeks. So, here are some common mistakes to avoid when working from home. Not managing expectations Understanding how much work can be done in a remote setup is important. You need to set realistic expectations and outline goals clearly. Not buying work essentials A decent work chair and desk setup with ergonomic equipment is necessary to avoid head or neck cramps or body strains. Having distractions Do not leave the TV or the music player on while working. It’s a distraction that will only affect your productivity. Burning out early Proactive task-taking outside work can display productivity, but overworking may lead to burnout. Not communicating effectively Communication gaps can only lead to misunderstandings and create an unhealthy situation. So, it’s necessary to establish proper communication channels. Always being available This isn’t necessarily a healthy habit to develop as it will only lead to early burnout when expectations are not fulfilled.

Atopic dermatitis in infants – Signs and management tips

Atopic dermatitis in infants – Signs and management tips
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is characterized by itchy, dry, bumpy skin and redness, rashes, and crusts on the skin’s surface. Up to 25% of children are affected by it within the initial years of their lives. The condition has no cure; however, its symptoms may be controlled with a skincare routine and lifestyle changes, even among children and infants. Here are the signs and management tips for atopic dermatitis in infants. Signs of atopic dermatitis in infants Pigmented rashes Infants with atopic dermatitis may develop pigmented rashes all over their bodies, especially on the forehead, cheeks, scalp, and sometimes around the groin area. These rashes are usually red among infants with light skin and grayish, purplish, or brownish in babies with darker complexions. Thickened and scaly skin Eczema may be thicker and scalier among infants than adults. This condition, called lichenification, may appear on the hands, wrists, knees, or elbows, particularly when the baby begins crawling. Inflamed skin Atopic dermatitis may additionally cause inflammation, scaly skin, and rashes around the ears, eyelids, and mouth in children. Pus-filled blisters Infants with eczema may experience dry, itchy scales that may convert to blisters. Itchy bumps Itchy bumps or papules on the skin also point toward eczema in babies.

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5 things to avoid doing in hotels

One of the joys of traveling is getting comfortable hotel accommodation for your stay. Just as we expect great service from these hotels, they expect the guests to follow certain protocols to make the experience pleasurable. It is important to understand this tacit agreement. On that note, here are some vital tips to remind you of things that you should avoid doing when you are staying in a hotel. Keep the bathroom door shut Taking a hot shower at the end of the day and sliding into the comfy blanket is one of the perks of being in a hotel. However, make sure you keep the bathroom door shut. The steam from the shower can enter the room and trigger the fire alarm. Don’t cover the smoke alarms Almost all hotels always have a smoking room available for their guests, as they understand it is a requirement for some. However, some guests will take a room that comes with a smoke alarm and cover the smoke alarms whenever they wish to indulge in activities that may set off the alarm. Avoid using the throw pillows Some hotels have these delicate items in the room, like throw pillows to add some personality to the room. However, if you notice, a lot of these items do not have a sleeve cover, and many hotels do not clean these pillows after every guest’s departure. These items could be a hotbed of germs, so it is best to avoid these throw pillows altogether. Stealing bathrobes is a big no-no It is normal to pack the shampoo, conditioner, and tea sachets from hotels. Most people do it, and it is quite acceptable as the customers pay for them. However, some may try to grab other items like bathrobes or coat hangers. Make sure to keep these items in the room after using them.

6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals

Planning your travel itinerary is one of the most critical tasks to pay attention to, especially while reserving bookings online. Holiday deals and bundled packages might be tempting at first glance. But there are certain rookie booking mistakes and not-so-obvious pitfalls to avoid losing money. It doesn’t matter if you are a veteran traveler or a first-timer. Pay attention to these 6 common booking mistakes and get the best deal on the first attempt. Not reading reviews When you have website reviews available for reference, use them before comparing cheap hotels in Orlando or other locations. Filter hotels by best reviews and read a few for the chosen place of stay. Learn about their service and quality of amenities, and see whether it is worth booking in the first place. Not booking a refundable room Travel plans can change, so you need to account for contingencies that affect your booking dates. Always book a refundable room even if your plans change on the spur of the moment. Not using the hotel’s website Booking through third-party websites may fetch you cheap hotels in Orlando. But booking a room through the hotel website that offers the same discount or price match can be more beneficial. Guests get assigned the best rooms with better views and even upgrades for using the hotel’s official website. Booking at the wrong time Hotels usually try to fill up as many rooms as possible with advance booking while reserving some rooms for last-minute travelers. Book rooms well in advance, especially if you make plans for the holiday season. Hotels can double or triple their room prices for tourists who fail to book in advance. Not signing up for hotel rewards Hotels offer loyalty programs and membership benefits to frequent travelers. Loyalty points can be redeemed at the hotel front desk or online to book free stays and travel on your next vacation.

4 tips to manage flea and tick infestations in dogs

Flea and ticks are common parasites that carry different types of diseases. These pests thrive in soft and warm environments, and the pet’s fur is a perfect home for them. If left unchecked, they can cause severe complications. But there are simple ways to control and prevent this problem. Here are some effective preventive treatments, plants that repel parasites, changes in daily foods, and DIY remedies to manage the infestation: Effective treatments Simparica TRIO oral chews are suitable for dogs eight weeks and older, weighing at least 2.8 lbs. The tablet should be given once a month.  K9 Advantix II, on the other hand, is another popular monthly flea protection treatment that is effective within the first 12 hours of consumption. K9 Advantix is suitable for dogs seven weeks or older, weighing at least 4.4 lbs.  Bravetco® is a more long-lasting alternative as one tablet can prevent flea and tick infestations for 12 weeks. Bravetco® is available in five dosing options, depending on the size and weight of the dog. Some heartworm prescriptions like Advantage Multi® topical solution and Trifexis® oral chews also help counter flea and tick infections. Immunity boosting meals and foods Consult with a vet to better understand what dogs should eat daily to develop more resilience and fight flea and tick infestations. For example, garlic can ward off parasites and is safe to include in small quantities for most breeds. But ensure the garlic is always freshly chopped. Honey pairs well with this garlic mixture and boosts immunity to combat common allergens that trigger flea infestations. Helpful plants that repel parasites Swapping out old plants for pet-friendly plants can actually help repel fleas and ticks. Basil, catnip, chamomile, chrysanthemum, eucalyptus, plantain, garlic, lavender, lemongrass, marigolds, mint, pennyroyal, rosemary, rue, sage, tansy, thyme, wormwood, and yarrow are all acceptable choices.

3 tips that may help prevent and manage prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer. It is estimated that one in eight men is at risk, and the number gets higher in those above the age of 65. Thankfully, modern treatments and prescriptions have made it easier. Also, certain lifestyle changes, healthy eating habits, and effective measures for prevention lower the risk. Here is how early diagnosis, treatments, and simple suggestions can improve the quality of life. Prescription treatments Xofigo contains a radioactive element called radium RA 223 dichloride. The injection works well in a short-range radius to counter the spread of prostate cancer in the bone. Enzalutamide, marketed under the brand name XTANDI, is an alternative treatment option. Those who don’t respond well to hormonal or surgical treatments can consider these injections to lower and manage testosterone levels. XTANDI works by actively inhibiting androgen receptors to prevent or reduce cancer cell growth. Prescriptions aside, doctors suggest cryotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy for those who respond to regular treatments. However, the treatments vary depending on the spread of cancer and the severity of the symptoms. Best foods for prevention Tomatoes and watermelon are rich in lycopene and beneficial for prostate cancer prevention. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, and cauliflower contain phytochemicals that help combat cancer-growing cells. Additionally, citrus-rich fruits, including oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes, help boost immunity. Tofu, chickpeas, lentils, sprouts, and peanuts contain isoflavones, which help lower the risk of prostate cancer. Note that daily foods must also supplement omega-3 fatty acids and folates sourced from fatty fish, leafy greens, and fortified whole foods. Overall, nutritionists recommend including more foods rich in antioxidants to fight oxidative damage. Effective lifestyle changes Exercise is one of the most significant changes to implement in daily routine. Any form of physical activity, including walking, running, jogging, and weight training, can help maintain a healthy body weight.

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4 ways to overcome an overactive bladder

4 ways to overcome an overactive bladder

Overactive bladder or OAB is a health condition that causes frequent and sudden urge to urinate. Statistics suggest that close to 35 million people in the country suffer from overactive bladder. Some people also experience urinary incontinence or unintentional loss of urine. It can be embarrassing to deal with the condition, as it can limit one’s social and professional life. The following tips can be used to effectively manage an overactive bladder: Typical treatment options Before we discuss tips for managing an overactive bladder, it is important to be aware of some treatment options. GEMTESA (vibegron) is one such treatment option. It activates beta-3 receptors, thereby allowing the bladder to relax and provide relief from being overactive. Apart from this, Myrbetriq can also be used for treating an overactive bladder, as it smoothens the muscles around the urinary bladder, increasing its storage capacity. Other options include TOVIAZ and INVOKANA®. Add cranberries to your food regimen  Cranberries are widely used to treat problems associated with bladder control. Similarly, other berries like strawberries and blueberries are also abundant in vitamin C, which can neutralize bad bacteria and prevent urinary tract infections. Berries also have high water content, which maintains hydration levels and helps manage bladder control. Cranberries can be eaten alone or can be added to smoothies, salads, and other delicious recipes. Limit washing and wiping Sanitary hygiene is essential. However, it can be counterintuitive going overboard. Women with overactive bladder experiencing menstruation might feel the constant need to clean themselves. However, excessive cleaning with soap can make the area dry and itchy, and it can aggravate symptoms of an overactive bladder. Hence it is recommended to avoid going overboard on washing and wiping or use hydrating cleaning products to retain the moisture. Practice exercises for bladder control Changes in certain habits related to urination can ease the symptoms or help retain bladder strength in the long run.
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5 tips to manage migraine attacks

5 tips to manage migraine attacks

Migraine is characterized by throbbing, lingering pain on either side of the head. It is common among those between 30 and 40 and more prevalent among women than men. According to research, at least 39 million people in the country live with migraine. Many people with this condition are sensitive to light and sound. Fortunately, lifestyle changes can reduce the frequency of migraines. Here are some effective ways that can help cope with migraines: Treatments People with migraines need to keep medications handy. Some of the common medicines used by adults for migraine attacks are UBRELVY™, Excedrin, Nurtec® ODT, and QULIPTA™. They block pathways in the brain that are responsible for migraine attacks. A doctor might also recommend preventive medicines if one experiences frequent and severe headaches that don’t respond well to treatment. These medications might reduce how often one gets an attack and reduce its severity. Foods to eat Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are high in antioxidants and fat and are great for keeping overall health in check. Magnesium-rich foods like avocados, apricots, almonds, cashews, and brown rice help the blood vessels relax and prevent headaches. Other items that help prevent headaches include leafy greens, dairy, and calcium-rich foods. Those who experience frequent migraine attacks are also often recommended to reduce the intake of high-sodium foods. Lifestyle choices Having a healthy sleep cycle is very rewarding. It’s good for one’s physical and mental health. Getting quality sleep every night can significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. Migraines usually occur when the body doesn’t get enough rest and is stressed. Hydration and cold compress It’s essential to be hydrated at all times to help reduce the frequency of migraines. The body requires a certain amount of electrolytes and fluids to work its best. When one doesn’t replace these fluids and electrolytes, it causes dehydration, triggering migraine.
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