Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It mainly causes inflammation in the airways and excess mucous production, interfering with breathing. If left unchecked, sudden asthma attacks can affect the patient’s everyday activities and even be potentially life-threatening. Therefore, patients should know the first signs and take necessary preventive measures before things go out of control. Here are five simple tips that help prevent impending asthma attacks. Identify and act swiftly Early identification is crucial for preventing asthma attacks. The sooner the patient identifies the symptoms, the more effective their action plan is. Experiencing shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, or a drop in expiratory flow rate, even while doing the least physically demanding activity, are among the telltale signs of progressing asthma. Carry preventive prescriptions One can manage the signs with quick-relief prescriptions and long-term treatments. Generally, doctors recommend inhalers, tablets, and even allergy shots to counter asthma attacks. In severe cases, inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, and beta-agonists help overcome the inflammation and relax the airway muscles. Patients must carry these prescriptions wherever they go to combat an emergency. Avoid unnecessary exposure Most asthma attacks are triggered by airborne pollutants like pollen, mold, spores, and pet dander.

The nerves and muscle cells need potassium to function, and the mineral is also responsible for regulating nerves in the heart. However, when potassium levels in the blood exceed the normal range, i.e., 3.6–5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), it can lead to a condition called hyperkalemia. This can cause severe health complications, including irregular heartbeat and even heart attack. However, hyperkalemia can be managed through treatment and changes in meal plans. Foods to avoid A high-potassium meal regimen or using excessive potassium supplements can contribute to the development of hyperkalemia. Excessive amounts of this mineral can result in numbness, tingling sensations, and digestive problems. So, one should avoid potassium-rich fruits like honeydew melon, oranges, bananas, and cantaloupe. Additionally, people affected by the condition should also limit high-potassium foods like apricots, mangoes, avocados, kiwis, breakfast cereals (with dried fruit), salt substitutes, milk and dairy products, chickpeas, and lentils. One should ensure that their potassium intake is limited to a maximum of 2,000 milligrams (mg) per day. A doctor can help develop a manageable meal plan to keep the potassium levels in check.  Maintenance treatment options  Various treatment options are recommended for different stages of hyperkalemia. If the potassium levels are not severe but still need to be lowered, doctors may recommend sodium bicarbonate to temporarily shift potassium into body cells.

Myelofibrosis is a rare type of bone marrow cancer that causes excessive scarring of the bone marrow, preventing it from producing blood cells. This leads to low RBC, WBC, and platelet counts. Enlargement of organs like the spleen and liver is also common among patients with this condition. Doctor-recommended treatments and following a self-care routine are both equally necessary to alleviate the symptoms of myelofibrosis, which helps speed up recovery. Eat healthy foods Eating healthy is one of the most important self-care tips for patients undergoing myelofibrosis treatment. The foods to include in the meal plan are fruits, leafy, cruciferous vegetables (like kale, cabbage, and broccoli), whole grains, protein sources (lean meats, chicken, lentils, and fatty fish), and foods rich in beta-carotene and lycopene (peppers, carrots, and apricots). Importance of treatment options Jakafi (ruxolitinib)® and INREBIC® (fedratinib) are two targeted treatments that help reduce spleen size and manage other symptoms of the condition. Bone-marrow transplant, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical spleen removal are other commonly suggested procedures. Patients must consult a healthcare professional about developing a treatment plan as per their situation. Avoid processed items and added sugar Processed and deep-fried foods have unhealthy fats, high salt content, and artificial flavoring.

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies trigger the destruction of vital nerve links responsible for muscle control. The condition usually affects women between the ages of 20 and 30 and men over 50. Myasthenia gravis is a chronic disease with progressive symptoms that do not have a permanent cure, but they can be managed with treatment options. Here are some of the symptoms one can experience when affected by the disease: Eye problems People commonly experience drooping eyelids on either one or both eyes coupled with vertical or horizontal double vision. This condition is also known as ocular myasthenia because the symptoms are limited to the eye muscles. Trouble eating With muscle weakness in the jaws, basic tasks like chewing food or drinking liquids can also become challenging. One may also get tired eating halfway through a meal. Changes in facial expression Some people also experience a change in facial expression due to compromised muscle tone. For instance, those affected might be trying to smile as they usually do, but the condition can make it seem like they are snarling. Additionally, myasthenia gravis can predominantly affect the facial region, starting with the muscles that control speech triggering impaired speech and a nasal voice.

Medicare is a federal government program to provide health insurance coverage for people in the country that are aged 65 and above. Moreover, it also includes people with disabilities and certain chronic conditions. Medicare usually covers most of the needs of the older generation, but health insurance and Medicare are completely different. Medicare does not cover certain things, hence it’s important to budget for healthcare needs that may arise in the future. What does Medicare not cover? In most circumstances, Medicare part A and part B cover most of the medical expenses after one turns 65. However, it does not cover everything. Long-term care One of the largest potential expenses during retirement life is long-term care, amounting to around $105,800 in 2020. Here Medicare provides skilled nursing services, but it does not cover custodial care to aid in day-to-day activities such as bathing, dressing, etc. Eye exams and opticians While serious ophthalmic problems such as cataracts fall under Medicare, they do not cover routine eye checkups, lenses, and eyeglasses. Hence people can opt for an additional vision insurance policy to help pay for eye care. Hearing aids While Medicare does cover multiple ear-related health conditions, the plan does not pay for hearing aids and routine ear checkups.

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is an aggressive skin condition where itchy inflammation and rashes appear on the skin. This skin condition is usually seen in children and is commonly found in those with a family history of eczema. Even with the help of topical medications and treatments, this condition can be quite difficult to manage. However, there are some home remedies that can help manage eczema and its symptoms. Let’s look at a few effective home remedies for atopic dermatitis or eczema. Aloe vera gel Aloe vera gel is known to be helpful in soothing a variety of skin conditions in people. Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can help soothe eczema inflammation in people. Moreover, since dry skin is vulnerable to skin infections and other difficulties, using aloe vera gel can be especially helpful in keeping the skin clean and infection-free. If you have never used aloe vera gel before, make sure you do a patch test before using it generously to rule out any allergic reactions. Apple cider vinegar Our skin is naturally acidic. However, the pH of the skin of eczema patients may rise and make it less acidic. Since our skin is the first line of defense against external pathogens, such a rise in pH can make the body vulnerable to infections and viruses.

Heart disease and strokes are serious health concerns around the world, however, 80% of premature attacks are preventable. While risk factors like genetics and age cannot be controlled, it is possible to modify one’s lifestyle to reduce the likelihood of developing heart conditions. It is important to start developing these habits as early as possible to lead a longer and healthier life. Here are eight things one can do to prevent ailments of the heart: Eat healthier Adding foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, plant-based proteins, lean proteins, and fish to one’s meals can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Further, limiting the intake of refined carbohydrates, refined meats, and processed foods can help maintain optimal heart health. Exercise regularly Adults must aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week or 75 minutes of high-intensity vigorous activity per week to stay healthy and prevent diseases. Keep cholesterol in check High levels of cholesterol can clog the arteries and increase the risk of coronary artery disease and heart attack. Lifestyle changes and treatment plans as advised by the doctor can help lower cholesterol levels and stay healthy. Manage diabetes Having diabetes doubles the risk of having diabetic heart disease because high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves around the heart.

Vitiligo is a rare skin disease that causes discoloration or pigmentation on one’s skin. People with vitiligo may notice smooth white or light patches appearing on their skin that may get bigger with time. The condition can affect any part of the body, including hair and the insides of one’s mouth. Vitiligo is not a contagious or life-threatening condition; it can be prevented and healed with some foods and home remedies. Understanding vitiligo One’s skin tone and hair color are determined by the quantity of melanin produced by their body cells. If melanin production is hampered, one may develop conditions like vitiligo. The condition usually occurs in the exposed areas of the skin, including hands, forearms, feet, and face. One may also notice premature graying or whitening of hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, and beard. Additionally, there may be discoloration around the genitals. Common causes of vitiligo The exact cause of vitiligo is not known. Abnormal genetic mutation, a family history of the condition, or a triggering event may affect the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes and cause vitiligo. Moreover, extreme sunburn, physical or emotional stress, or exposure to toxic chemicals may also lead to developing vitiligo. Foods that help prevent vitiligo Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease that may lead to inflammation and damage of cells.