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5 things to avoid with lupus

5 things to avoid with lupus
Lupus is a health condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. It causes inflammation in different body parts, including the joints, kidneys, blood cells, heart, and lungs. Unfortunately, the autoimmune disease has no cure; available treatment options only help prevent flare-ups and manage symptoms. Therefore, patients must be careful and follow healthy practices to prevent the problem from worsening. Here are five things to avoid when diagnosed with lupus: Exposure to sunlight Those affected by lupus should avoid sun exposure because they are more sensitive to sunlight. It can worsen the symptoms, especially when the sun is at its peak. When venturing out, patients must apply sunscreen, preferably with SPF 70. Sunscreens with higher SPF values might protect the skin from harmful rays. In addition, individuals should cover their skin as much as possible when outside and carry a hat. Physical and mental stress Mental or physical stress can cause lupus to worsen or trigger a flare-up. A severe lupus episode is most commonly linked to chronic stress. Patients can indulge in mild exercises, yoga, or meditation to calm the mind. These activities release happy hormones and put one in a good mood almost instantly. Red meat Red meats like beef, pork, and lamb contain saturated fats that can raise a person’s cholesterol levels.

5 common cleaning mistakes to stay away from

5 common cleaning mistakes to stay away from
Cleaning the house is not as easy as it appears. Before starting, you must know precisely how, when, and what to clean because trial and error might not help. Sometimes, you could be making cleaning mistakes without realizing it, which do not allow you to get the desired results. To prevent that and help you keep your home clean and tidy, we have listed the top five cleaning mistakes to avoid. Starting at the wrong spot in the room Nobody wants to spend more time than necessary cleaning. You will have to backtrack and redo if you commence at the wrong spot while deep cleaning. So, start by decluttering the things you do not want in the room. Put them back in their original spot or discard them. Now, as you start cleaning, begin from the top, and go all the way down. If you start from the bottom and move to the top, the dirt and dust from the top will travel downwards, and you may have to clean it again. Using too much cleaning product People often have a notion that more is better. However, it is far from the truth, especially when using chemicals and solutions. While these products with unique formulas can help remove tough stains, you should only use the quantity suggested by the manufacturer.

4 ways to reintroduce cats to the litter box

4 ways to reintroduce cats to the litter box
While some cats would spend an absurd amount of time in their litter boxes, the others tend to avoid it. While the former might do little more than pique your interest, the latter could mean soiled carpets, furniture, and linens on the regular. Cats not using their litter box could be a problem, and to know how to solve it, understand these few common reasons why cats start avoiding the litter box like the plague. Change of location It is possible that your cat does not like the area its litter box has been placed in. Or, they prefer a few other places to take care of its business. In this case, try to check if placing the cat litter box in an area of your cat’s preference can help solve the problem. If your cat hunts down a new place to go, you will have to make the new place unlikeable for them. You can employ tools like lights, motion sensors, double-sided tape, and other such tactics to repel your cat. Litter issues One of the possible reasons why a cat starts to avoid their litter box and hunts for other places to eliminate may be contained in its litter box.

5 things to avoid for a healthy sleep cycle

5 things to avoid for a healthy sleep cycle
Getting a good night’s sleep is important to ensure you remain energetic throughout the day. Your mind and body need a healthy reset to overcome the tasks of the day and start fresh. Getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep daily is an ideal sleep cycle for adults and there are ways to achieve this if you quit some habits and choices. Let’s see what things you must avoid to ensure a healthy sleep cycle. Using your phone before bed Aimless scrolling and watching videos before going to bed while staring at your phone or laptop will only hinder your REM sleep cycle. According to studies, it is suggested that electronic devices are one of the most important things to avoid for better sleep because they emit harmful rays and may also distract you from a good night’s sleep. Heavy dinner While indulging in a heavy dinner might sound like a good idea, it only puts your digestive system under a lot of stress and pressure. Because of your day-to-day schedule and our rapid eye movement (REM) sleep cycle, your organs work according to this routine. Similarly at night, your digestive system needs a reset to be able to function properly for all the meals you put in it the next day.

4 travel mistakes to take a break from

4 travel mistakes to take a break from
Whether you are a novice wanderlust or have been to hundreds of places, mistakes are a part of the process. But, it is important to learn and avoid the mistakes that might ruin your journey. One of the common traveling mistakes to avoid is taking connecting flights as you might have to cancel or modify back-to-back bookings in case your first flight is delayed. Read on to know some other travel mistakes to avoid.  Overpacking Choosing what to pack is a hard job. But being weighed down by your bulky suitcase is a lot more difficult. Start off with choosing the bag that is right for the duration of your trip. Don’t go for a big bag. The bigger the bag, the more will you be packing. With a smaller bag, you’ll only carry things necessary for the trip and there are no extra options. Moreover, with limited belongings, you can easily keep your hotel room clean. Visiting several destinations Taking time off from your routine does not mean you spend every minute of the couple of days you have off in traveling. It is a common mistake most travelers make and one that you need to avoided on your next trip.

Plants that repel ticks and fleas

Plants that repel ticks and fleas
Most pets enjoy playing and relaxing in the backyard. Sadly, time spent outdoors comes at a cost known as infestations of ticks and fleas. These parasites can also affect human beings and cause health problems, such as Lyme disease. Fortunately, you can grow certain plants in your backyard that are effective at keeping ticks away. Some of these additions to the backyard can also enhance the beauty of the garden. Rosemary The fragrant herb contains a naturally occurring compound called terpinolene that makes rosemary a natural tick repellent. The plant can also keep mites, flies, and aphids away. Pennyroyal Apart from beautifying your garden, Pennyroyals have a pungent odor that ticks and fleas detest. As a result, they will steer clear of the backyard. Wormwood Wormwood, also used as an ornamental plant, has a bitter taste which is known to repel disease-causing parasites. Rue Rue has a beautiful blue-green leaf structure and produces compounds hated by ticks. The plant’s leaves also serve as a strong disinfectant that can deter fleas when rubbed on a dog’s fur. Lavender The oil of lavender disturbs the olfactory sensors and makes it difficult for the blood-sucking parasite to find hosts. Citronella grass Citronella grass gives other plants a significant amount of cover in the backyard.

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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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