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6 common home lighting mistakes to avoid

6 common home lighting mistakes to avoid
Bad lighting can break the functionality and ambience of a home, while good lighting elevates it. Some common home lighting mistakes can be addressed by simple research and maybe some advice from a professional. It is important to consider the three types of lighting—accent, ambient, and task—when choosing lighting options for the home. Here are six mistakes that are quite common when it comes to choosing home lighting and should be avoided. Installing recessed lighting High ceilings are impressive enough; cramming them with recessed lighting is unnecessary. It tends to make the room look dull and uninviting, not to mention it only serves the purpose of ambient lighting, making it quite non-functional. If creating a warm, cozy, and functional vibe is the agenda, don’t depend on recessed lights alone. Use scones for the walls, floor lamps for corners, and chandeliers or pendant lights for the ceiling to give the room character. Not considering task lighting While ambient and accent lighting add to the allure and feel of the room, task lighting is the more functional aspect of lighting. Illuminating the kitchen or workspace with direct lights, bright enough to avoid shadows or dark spots, is called task lighting. These can be achieved in reading corners by adding floor lamps and pendant lights, and under-cabinet lighting or track lights for kitchen spaces.

9 most-returned presents after Christmas

9 most-returned presents after Christmas
The holidays are a time for joyous celebration and stellar meals. However, it also brings the obligation of exchanging gifts. While some people are excellent gift-givers, others often rely on generic gift listings. This tends to lead to lots of returns. Not only does this have an increased environmental impact, but it also takes a significant amount of time and effort. To avoid the hassle after Christmas, avoid gifting these nine most frequently returned presents: Shoes While shoes are a practical gift, it is important to consider the wearer’s style preferences, size, and comfort when purchasing them. Ignoring these factors is a common reason behind many returns. Kitchen appliances Kitchen appliances are also practical gadgets. However, nobody needs two toasters, ovens, or other appliances at home. As a result, many people end up returning these gifts. Video games Video games sound like an excellent idea for avid video game players. Unfortunately, many already own these games. As an alternative, consider gifting vouchers or gift cards for video games. Sweets As indulgent as Christmas is, many people go on a health kick right after. Because of this, they often end up returning any sweets or candies they may have received as presents during this time.

7 common phone charging mistakes to avoid

7 common phone charging mistakes to avoid
Smartphones have replaced the need for many tools and gadgets and become an integral part of the modern lifestyle. But some habits are known to compromise their efficiency. Charging a smartphone, for instance, may appear to be a straightforward process, but how it is done significantly influences the battery lifespan, impact on electricity costs, and user safety. Here are some common charging mistakes that one should avoid to ensure the efficiency of the device. Leaving the charger plugged into the socket When a charger sits in the socket, it continuously consumes power, leading to increased electricity bills. Additionally, the heat emission from the transformer increases the risk of electrical fires, especially in humid air. To mitigate this, users should unplug chargers when not in use. Charging the battery to maximum capacity Smartphone batteries, especially lithium-ion and lithium-polymer, come with a set number of charge cycles. Consistently charging them to 100% tends to shorten their lifespan. It’s recommended to keep the battery charge percentage between 20% and 80% to expand lifespan. Draining the battery fully before charging again Similarly, regularly letting the battery reach zero before charging can lead to unnecessary strain on the battery and slowly result in a shorter lifespan.

8 exceptional gifts for people who are hard to shop for

8 exceptional gifts for people who are hard to shop for
In the pursuit of finding the perfect gift for those who prove difficult to shop for, gift-giving becomes a thoughtful and strategic endeavor. The art of thoughtful gift-giving involves a nuanced understanding of the recipient’s preferences and a selection of items that resonate with their lifestyle. By incorporating personalized, experience-based, or unique gifts supported by one’s likes and dislikes, the giver ensures that the gift is meaningful and well-received by the other person. Personalized keepsakes Explore the wide range of personalized keepsakes where sentiment meets exclusivity, such as a custom-engraved necklace with the recipient’s initials or a monogrammed leather journal. Personalization options extend beyond names. One can also choose birthdates, coordinates, or meaningful quotes that can add significance to the gift. Experience-based gifts For the individual who values experiences, one can consider gifting a memorable adventure. Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride, a cooking class, or a spa day, these experiences create lasting memories and contribute to a sense of fulfillment. Subscription boxes tailored to interests Consider gifting subscription boxes to add a personal touch to the gift selection. Tailor the subscription to the recipient’s interests, whether it’s gourmet snacks, beauty products, or even a book club. The variety of options ensures a personalized and ongoing surprise.

5 mistakes new hearing aid owners must avoid

5 mistakes new hearing aid owners must avoid
Hearing aids make a significant difference in the lives of people with hearing difficulties. These devices capture sounds from the environment and make them louder before sending them to the wearer’s ear. However, individuals should pick a suitable model after consulting a healthcare professional for the best results. One should also avoid making the following mistakes when buying hearing aids, as it could result in a poor user experience and other problems. Not reading the instructions Every hearing aid comes with an instruction manual, which users should read. While healthcare professionals usually teach patients the basics about the device, one must try to read the printed instructions themselves. The manual may contain additional information on how the product works and offer insights into its key features. Being dishonest about hearing loss Many people are dishonest about the extent of their hearing loss during a hearing examination. This can cause the expert to prescribe an incorrect model, which might not make much difference when the individual uses it. An incorrect assessment might also compel one to replace the hearing aid multiple times to find the right fit, which means spending more money than necessary. Not carrying spare batteries The batteries of some hearing aids discharge quickly.

9 types of common disabilities

9 types of common disabilities
One can come across several types of disabilities in one’s life. The word disability includes a broad spectrum of conditions that result in physical, emotional, cognitive, and sensory impairments. Some of these disabilities may be congenital, while others may develop gradually due to an underlying health condition or an injury or accident. Each of these disabilities has its set of unique challenges. Here, let’s delve into the top 9 conditions that may cause disabilities. Musculoskeletal system and connective tissue disorders The musculoskeletal system comprises ligaments, cartilage, bones, and connective tissues. It connects all the bones in the body, facilitating movement and motion. Disabilities can occur due to musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, spine disorders, scoliosis, ruptured discs, carpal tunnel syndrome, and degenerative disc disease. Mood disorders Disabilities can also occur due to mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, cyclothymic disorder, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), depression related to mental health issues, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Nervous system disorders The nervous system comprises the brain, spinal cord, sensory organs, and nerves. Disabilities may develop due to several congenital or underlying health conditions related to the nervous system, such as infections like meningitis and polio, functional disorders like epilepsy and neuralgia, degenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, and structural disorders like Bell’s palsy and brain or spinal cord injuries.

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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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