Short bowel syndrome refers to a condition that occurs when a major portion of a person’s small intestine has been removed. The small intestine is responsible for absorbing nutrients and water from the food one eats. Therefore, the removal of a major portion of it can significantly impact this absorption process. Consequently, people with short bowel syndrome need to change their food regimen. This includes avoiding certain foods, such as the following: Foods with high sugar content Sugar-rich foods can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This can cause one’s body to draw excess water into the bowels, leading to loose stools and frequent bowel movements. This further causes dehydration and loss of nutrients. Hence, patients with short bowel syndrome must avoid sugary foods such as candies, sweets, pastries, cakes, cookies, etc. They must also avoid sodas and sugary beverages, which often contain high fructose corn syrup. Foods with high fiber content Due to the reduction in the size of the small intestine, it gets harder for the body to absorb fibers, especially insoluble fiber. Hence, patients with short bowel syndrome must avoid foods with high amounts of fiber (particularly insoluble fiber). These include whole-grain products (like whole-wheat bread and bran products), legumes (like beans, lentils, and chickpeas), and certain vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussel sprouts.

Our eyes help us see what’s around us so that we can react accordingly. Since they perform such a crucial function, we must maintain them by following healthy practices. Sadly, many ignore eye care and increase their risk of ocular conditions. These conditions are usually treatable with timely intervention, but prevention is always better than cure. Below are a few simple yet practical ways to maintain eye health in the long run. 1. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the functioning of the meibomian gland. This oil gland protects against age-related macular degeneration and dry eye disease. Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and should be a part of one’s meals to protect the eyes. Nuts like walnuts and seeds like flax and chia seeds are also rich in this essential nutrient. 2. Maintain an active lifestyle Moderate-intensity exercises considerably reduce eye pressure, lowering one’s risk of glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and other eye disorders. Hence, individuals should avoid a sedentary lifestyle and incorporate walking, jogging, skipping, cycling, swimming, or other exercises into daily workouts. 3. Wear shades while stepping out during the day In the long run, persistent and direct exposure to sunlight can trigger several eye diseases, including macular degeneration, corneal damage, and cataracts.

Chest or lung congestion often occurs due to a common cold. Sometimes, an underlying medical condition like bronchitis, COPD, and so on can also cause persistent lung congestion. Additionally, excess fluids, such as mucus, can accumulate in the lungs, adding to the congestion. This also causes swelling of the lungs along with constriction of the airflow, which makes breathing difficult. Therefore, it is imperative to look at the signs and manage them through treatment options. Signs of congestion in lungs An affected person may experience: A hacking cough with clear, green, or dark yellow mucus A feeling of tightness in the chest A sore throat Constant body aches and frequent chills A persistent headache High fever that may last for a few days Shortness of breath or wheezing Most of the symptoms of chest congestion usually subside within a few days. However, the cough may persist for a couple of weeks as the bronchial tubes complete their healing process. If the cough lasts for more than 14 days, it is advisable to consult a doctor at the earliest. This sign might be an indicator of other serious health conditions, such as pneumonia. Tips for managing the signs of lung congestion In most cases, lung congestion can be effectively treated by rest and waiting for the virus to clear.

The eyes can accomplish amazing things. They process information using a complex mechanism that establishes a direct connection with the brain, allowing individuals to process the world around them visually. One would be surprised to know that many people don’t take eye health seriously! People who don’t think they have a vision problem seldom get routine exams with an ophthalmologist or optometrist, which can deteriorate their eye health. Here are some ways to maintain eye health: Ways to maintain eye health From the moment one wakes up until the moment they go to sleep, how they navigate their day and enjoy life is greatly influenced by their eyes. Following these suggestions will help one maintain the health of their eyes and safeguard their vision. 1. Defend the eyes from UV light’s harmful effects A condition known as photokeratitis, which resembles sunburn, can result from prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. The eyes can become swollen, irritated, and red from this, which can be extremely painful. After 6 to 12 hours of exposure, photokeratitis symptoms, which are an inflammation of the cornea’s outer layer, usually appear. However, the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation build up over time, and the risk of developing cataracts and other age-related conditions rises noticeably.

When it comes to dealing with the seasonal or allergic flu, also known as influenza, understanding the things to avoid is as crucial as knowing the appropriate measures to take. The general characteristics of this condition include runny nose, fever, chills, and cough. Managing the flu can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience, and to promote easier and faster recovery, here are some things one should avoid doing when infected with the virus. Not drinking enough water Fever and sweating can cause dehydration, which can further delay the recovery and take a toll on one’s body. Therefore, it is advised to drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich fluids to help the body recover more effectively. It’s also important to avoid drinking coffee or tea as it can contribute to dehydration. Not resting enough Avoiding rest and trying to power through the illness can prolong its duration and increase the risk of complications. When dealing with the flu, it’s important to listen to the body and allow the time it needs to heal. Bed rest, along with sleep and relaxation, can help the immune system fight off the virus more efficiently. Experts suggest waiting for at least 24 hours before going out after the fever has subsided.

Exposure to toxic fumes, pollution, and particulate matter can quickly deteriorate lung health. While one must take precautions to lower the exposure or avoid it altogether, several other ways, like making good nutrition choices, can help improve lung health and prevent common lung diseases. One must follow meal plans that consist of foods that can help prevent such conditions. Here are some of the options one can include in their meal plans. Beets The root and greens of the beetroot plant add vibrancy to meals. In addition, these contain essential compounds that can optimize the function of the lungs. Beet greens and beetroot contain high amounts of nitrates. Also, beets are rich in magnesium, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. All of these help the blood vessels relax while lowering blood pressure and optimizing oxygen. This improves lung health. Apples While eating apples can improve overall health, this fruit is particularly good for the lungs. It lowers the risk of developing common lung diseases. The high percentage of antioxidants such as flavonoids and vitamin C in apples also helps in slowing down the decline of lung health in those with pre-existing lung problems. Walnuts These nuts are quite popular as healthy foods for the heart.

The liver is responsible for functions such as supporting metabolism and removing toxins from the body. If it sustains any damage, its functions are severely compromised. As a result, due to liver damage, one may notice several signs and symptoms that indicate that the liver is not functioning properly. Recognizing these signs is crucial for effectively managing and treating the liver condition. Here are a few warning signs of liver damage to look out for: 1. Jaundice Jaundice is the noticeable yellowish discoloration of a person’s skin and the whites of their eyes. It is often the most apparent sign of a liver ailment. Jaundice happens due to the liver’s inability to process a waste product called bilirubin. 2. Fluid retention Excessive fluid retention may also be indicative of liver problems. This fluid buildup occurs either in the abdominal cavity, causing bloating, or in the legs, causing them to swell up. 3. Loss of appetite Losing appetite is another common symptom noticed in liver ailments. Since the liver helps in the process of metabolism, any damage caused to it may hinder that function. As a result, one may experience this symptom. 4. Itchy skin Liver ailments may also cause an increase in the levels of bile salts in the body.

Cervical cancer is a common condition, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggesting that approximately 11,500 new cases of this type of cancer are detected every year in the country. Like other types of cancer, this condition is most manageable when diagnosed in the earliest stages of progression. So, to help receive timely treatment and diagnosis, one should keep an eye out for the following early warning signs of cervical cancer: 1. Pain in lower back or pelvis Pelvic pain and lower back pain in women are indicators of underlying issues in the reproductive organs. If one experiences pain in these areas, then the symptoms should be examined by a doctor to check for cervical cancer. Continuous pelvic pain near the appendix can develop when the cancer has advanced. 2. Loss of appetite This is a common cancer symptom. With cervical cancer, the early stages are often associated with unexplained muscle loss and a drastic change in appetite. In fact, even women with healthy appetites and adequate food intake can experience muscle loss as an early warning sign of cervical cancer. 3. Unusual discharge Vaginal discharge is a normal phenomenon in women, especially in different stages of menstrual cycle.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung condition. This common disorder affects over 12 million people in the country, causing an obstruction in the airflow in the lungs. Recognizing early signs of COPD can lead to a quicker diagnosis. This allows for better management of the condition, reducing the risk of lung function loss. This article sheds light on the early signs and management of COPD: Signs Here are some of the early signs of COPD: Shortness of breath with mild physical exercise such as walking, using the stairs, or performing daily activities Difficulty taking a deep breath Wheezing Chest tightness Chronic cough that may produce clear, white, yellow, or greenish mucus Frequent respiratory infections Lack of energy or fatigue that lasts for more than a day Swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs Change in color, thickness, amount, or odor of sputum (mucus) Presence of blood in sputum Frequent morning headaches or dizziness Fever, especially with cold or flu symptoms Restlessness, confusion, forgetfulness, or slurred speech COPD treatment COPD treatment is focused on symptom management, such as relieving coughing, easing breathing problems, and reducing the risk of respiratory infections. Commonly prescribed treatment methods include the following:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition affecting millions worldwide. It is the third most significant cause of death in patients, claiming more than 3 million lives in 2019. However, it often remains undiagnosed until it reaches advanced stages, making early detection crucial for better management and improved quality of life. To do so, exploring the early signs of COPD and taking the necessary actions to mitigate them is essential. Chronic cough Chronic cough is among the earliest indicators of COPD. The persistent cough is commonly dismissed as a symptom of a minor infection or inhalation of allergens. It is typical for the cough to linger around for months. The primary cause for this persistent cough is the prolonged exposure of the respiratory system to chronic inflammation or irritation. Long-term exposure to environmental irritants like chemicals, dust, and other air pollutants can trigger it. Increased mucus COPD patients experience increased mucus production, often accompanied by persistent coughing. The mucus produced in such patients is thicker and stickier than in minor infections. Usually, the lungs produce mucus to protect the airway against irritants. The mucus traps pollutants that enter the respiratory system and eliminates them. When exposed to high levels of irritants, the body produces more mucus to fight off the invaders.