Home | Pets

3 ways to manage osteoporosis and improve bone health

3 ways to manage osteoporosis and improve bone health
Around 10 million people in our country aged 50 and above have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a bone disorder that occurs when the body cannot create enough new bone to replace old bone in time. As a result, bone density and bone mass decrease, and the bones become brittle. People with the disease are more prone to fractures. Here are some treatments, foods, and lifestyle changes for managing osteoporosis and improving bone health: Treatment options Most treatments for osteoporosis aim to prevent further loss of bone density. Two popular options are Prolia ®  and EVENITY ® .  Prolia ®  is a treatment that helps increase bone mass, reducing the risk of fractures. It is mainly prescribed to women after menopause. However, one must not use Prolia ® if they have low blood calcium or are expecting. Common side effects include infections, bone and joint pain, and allergic reactions. Women may also experience back pain and the common cold. EVENITY® is another popular option for women with osteoporosis after menopause. It helps build new bone and reduce spine fracture risk within 12 months. EVENITY® can lead to serious side effects like an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. The common side effects include allergic reactions, sore throats, burning eyes, infections, joint pain, and muscle spasms.

4 useful ways to manage psoriatic arthritis

4 useful ways to manage psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a health condition that affects about 30% of people affected by psoriasis, bringing the number of patients in the country to around 2 million. Just like psoriasis causes inflammation of the skin, Psoriatic arthritis results in inflammation of the joints. The best way to manage this condition is a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Here are some essential management tips necessary to manage psoriatic arthritis and reduce flare-ups: Treatment options Doctors might have to go through various treatment plans since finding one that suits the patient isn’t easy. That said, there are some options that show substantial results and are commonly prescribed. These include the following. OTEZLA® Approved by the FDA, OTEZLA® is a prescription treatment option for patients with psoriatic arthritis. It acts by inhibiting the phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) enzyme that is the cause of the increased inflammatory response of the body. Regular use of OTEZLA® has proven beneficial for patients and can be combined with phototherapy or topical treatments. RINVOQ® RINVOQ® is an oral treatment option for active psoriatic arthritis patients. Doctors usually prescribe this treatment option when patients fail to respond to one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. It is an oral treatment option used for adult PsA patients only.

4 effective tips to better manage hemophilia

4 effective tips to better manage hemophilia
Hemophilia is a rare hereditary disorder that affects the blood’s natural ability to clot. It becomes difficult to stop the bleeding caused by even the slightest injury without clotting factor VIII proteins. According to the CDC, an estimated 1 in 5000 newborn males develops hemophilia. There’s no cure for the condition. But it’s possible to restart the clotting factor function with prescriptions, healthy food habits, lifestyle changes, and preventive care. Read on to know more: Treatment options for hemophilia Replacing the missing clotting factor is one of the best ways to treat hemophilia. Prescriptions like Hemlibra® reintroduce coagulation factors in the blood to help lower the risk of bleeding. The FDA has also approved the use of recombinant factor concentrates that are genetically engineered using DNA to make the human clotting factor proteins. Kovaltry® is another alternative prescription antihemophilic factor suggested for people with hemophilia A. Nutritious foods to eat regularly with hemophilia Iron is crucial for maintaining proper hemoglobin levels in the blood. Also, one must replenish all the iron lost due to abnormal bleeding triggered by hemophilia. Lean red meats, seafood, liver, beans, peas, eggs, spinach, kale, broccoli, Bok choy, fortified snacks, and even dried fruits are rich in iron.

3 effective ways to manage Parkinson’s disease

3 effective ways to manage Parkinson’s disease
About one million people in our country are affected by Parkinson’s disease (PD), with approximately 60,000 new cases each year. Parkinson’s causes progressive deterioration of the nervous system, leading to symptoms like tremors, stiff muscles, and difficulty balancing. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disease, and it can only be managed. Read on to learn about the treatment options, foods to eat and avoid, and healthy lifestyle changes to cope with Parkinson’s disease: Treatments for Parkinson’s disease Parkinson’s is usually managed with treatments that have a combination of levodopa and carbidopa, such as ONGENTYS®, RYTARY®, and opicapone. ONGENTYS® is for people with PD who have “OFF” episodes. RYTARY® is a treatment option with a unique combination of time-release beads to keep LD levels steady for longer. Opicapone inhibits a natural substance called COMT, helping elements like levodopa and carbidopa work effectively to improve brain function. Foods to eat and avoid Certain foods help manage Parkinson’s disease symptoms. For instance, walnuts, blackberries, cranberries, tomatoes, and peppers are rich in antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress, which can make Parkinson’s worse. In addition, foods with omega-3 fatty acids like soybeans, flax seeds, kidney beans, and oysters can improve cognitive function. Some foods may also worsen the condition. Foods that are processed or fried, such as French fries, sausages, and other canned meats, are rich in salt and nitrites.

4 tips to manage asthma symptoms

4 tips to manage asthma symptoms
Asthma is an inflammatory disease caused by inflammation in the lungs’ airways. If statistics are to be believed, there are almost 25 million people in the country with asthma. Asthma patients are likely to be triggered by certain foods and environmental factors. However, this varies from patient to patient and depends on the severity of the condition. This article sheds light on some effective tips to help asthma patients keep their symptoms at bay. Keep these treatment options handy The best way to manage asthma is to seek medical intervention. Fasenra® and Nucula are two excellent medications. Fasenra® is used as one of the most effective asthma treatment options. It can be self-injected using an injection pen. Fasenra® is used to improve breathing in asthma patients and lower their use of oral steroids use. It is to be taken once every eight weeks. Mepolizumab or Nucala works by reducing the number of eosinophils in the blood, thereby reducing airway inflammation. Oher clinical treatment options include Tezepelumab, Xolair, and Zyrtec. Eat and avoid these foods Lifestyle changes like adding foods to one meal regimen and avoiding certain foods can also effectively manage asthma. Ginger should be added to daily meals because they are anti-inflammatory and can reduce asthma symptoms.

3 ways to manage high cholesterol

3 ways to manage high cholesterol
Cholesterol is an essential element produced naturally in the body. It is a type of fat found in the blood that helps the system function smoothly. However, excess cholesterol is harmful as it can narrow or clog the arteries and increase the risk of heart conditions. According to the CDC, about 94 million adults in the country have high cholesterol levels. Let’s take a look at cholesterol treatment, food plans, and tips to manage it: Treatment Livalo® is popularly prescribed by doctors to manage high cholesterol levels. It is classed under stanins or HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. It helps in reducing triglycerides and bad cholesterol while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol. Livalo® may lower the risk of developing heart conditions and hardened arteries, helping prevent a stroke and vascular diseases. It is also used to treat inherited high cholesterol in children of at least eight years of age. Some doctors may have to give Repatha® to manage high cholesterol. It is taken alone or with other options to effectively reduce the risk of heart diseases. Repatha® is categorized as a PCSK9 inhibitor. It is administered to aid people with homozygous or heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (inherited types of high cholesterol).

Must
Reads.

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.

Our
Blog.

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.
Read More
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.
Read More