Sinus congestion can make one uncomfortable, cause headaches, interfere with sleep, and prevent easy breathing. To relieve this, many natural and at-home remedies are available that don’t require much effort or cost money. These remedies help loosen mucus in the sinus passages and allow for faster draining. Viruses, allergens, and bacteria are the most common causes of sinus congestion, and here are five natural remedies for it. Water Staying hydrated is one of the first things one should do in the case of sinus congestion. Water helps dilute the mucus secretion and allows for easier drainage. Drinking adequate amounts of fluids like water, hot tea, clear soups, and herbal teas can provide relief and help the mucus membrane function efficiently. Avoid anything with caffeine, as it can be dehydrating. Focus on nourishing beverages and soothing drinks. Steam inhalation is also an effective natural remedy for relief from sinus congestion. It warms up and moisturizes the sinus passageways, allowing the mucus to be easily drained. Adding essential oils like eucalyptus can help with congestion. Warm compress Placing a warm compress on the nose, forehead, cheeks, and eyes can help relieve the pressure and discomfort in the nasal passage. One could also soak a towel in warm water, squeeze the excess, and drape it over the face.

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of rare disorders often categorized as cancer. They occur when the bone marrow does not work properly and produces unhealthy blood cells. Myelodysplastic syndromes are usually observed in people who are 65 years or older, but a younger person may also be diagnosed with it in rare cases. Here are some of the most common warning signs and causes of the condition one should know. Warning signs of myelodysplastic syndromes The disorder usually does not trigger any symptoms in the early stages, so most people are diagnosed much later. Besides, myelodysplastic syndromes typically cause low counts of blood cells. As a result, some people find out only after a routine blood test. However, having a low blood count or anemia does not necessarily mean a person has the disorder, so one should show the reports to a doctor. Almost all warning signs of myelodysplastic syndromes are similar to those of other less severe health disorders. Therefore, seeking expert advice is important for correct diagnosis whenever any of the signs are observed. Dyspnea A person may start to experience dyspnea or breathlessness, even without doing any physically straining activity or work. Fatigue A low blood cell count may cause oxygen levels to drop, leading to a persistent feeling of tiredness.

Conditions like the flu and common cold are not easy to dodge. Almost everyone gets the flu at least twice or thrice a year, and those with seasonal allergies face flare-ups as soon as the weather changes. While the symptoms typically persist for 3-5 days, sometimes, they last longer. This can be exacerbated by mistakes a person may commit while recovering from the flu. So, here are some common mistakes that need to be avoided. Keeping up with usual routine When one is down with the flu, their immune system works harder than usual to combat the germs. Therefore, the body requires all the energy possible to fight the flu. Resting, napping, and sleeping as much as possible are ways to help the system recover. But instead, if one continues to power through their usual routine, such as going to work or school, it will take longer for the flu symptoms to get better. Ignoring the flu symptoms for too long The flu takes about a couple of days to a week to subside. But for proper symptom management, one must pay attention to the signs and take necessary precautions. Taking enough rest, making healthy nutrition choices, and taking flu prescriptions are some ways to get better.

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them. Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that don’t trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage one’s time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. Emotions There is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing.

Dehydration is a condition in which the body loses more fluids than normal. It can affect infants, young children, adults, and seniors. You can experience mild to severe symptoms depending on how much fluids the body loses and what is being done to replenish the supply. However, children and infants are at a higher risk of getting dehydrated due to many underlying causes. Herein, we explain in detail the common visual indicators of a developing condition. Upon prompt diagnosis, you can immediately contact your primary care provider. Here are a few signs to look out for; Dry mouth Saliva is a natural lubricant that the body produces to moisten and clean your mouth. It also helps digest food better and prevents the risk of contracting a fungal or bacterial infection in the mouth. The body needs to stay hydrated to produce enough saliva during the day and at night. One of the visible signs in children and infants includes parched dry lips and a dry mouth. Understand that dry mouth is a mild stage of dehydration and can be controlled early on. So you must ensure the child drinks plenty of water. You must also replenish electrolyte levels in their body after an active day.

It is alright to feel sad or anxious at times in your life, but if these feelings linger for more than two weeks, it could be a sign of depression. Although depression is a mental disorder, the effects it has on an individual’s body cannot be ignored. A person diagnosed with depression may experience physical pain, fatigue, heart problems, and other serious issues. Research has revealed how depression can affect your body. Weight changes Depression can make people binge eat or experience a significant loss of appetite. The contributing factor to weight gain can be emotional eating, in which the person eats food subconsciously, thinking that it may subside the feeling of depression. On the other hand, a person in a depressive state may lose interest in eating much, and have less motivation to prepare meals, leading to weight loss. Persistent physical pain People in depressive states tend to experience unexplained pains or aches on their back, joints, and limbs. It may also cause a headache and breast tenderness. Some people can even feel full-body pain, which can be chronic and extremely weakening. Plus, chronic pain can make symptoms of depression worse. Gastrointestinal problems It’s common for people with depression to go through bouts of stomach or digestion problems, such as constipation, vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea.

Leading a healthy life when suffering from diabetes can be challenging, especially with diet restrictions. Reports suggest that diabetes has now attained epidemic proportions. Some very severe consequences of uncontrolled diabetes include kidney and heart diseases and other health complications. Therefore, while it is frustrating to be watchful of everything you eat, it is also necessary. Considering that diabetes is associated with blood sugar and insulin levels, it’s necessary that one is always aware and takes care of their insulin and sugar levels. One of the easiest ways to do that is by following a rigid diet and eating right. However, avoiding everything is not the answer here, the simplest way of eating right is by making healthy food choices. Here are some diet tips to help you eat right and manage your diabetes. Carbohydrates can be healthy All types of carbohydrates directly affect the levels of blood glucose in your body. Therefore, it is important to be aware of foods that are rich in carbohydrates. However, with controlled portions, and healthier carb sources, there is no reason for anyone to give up carbohydrates completely. Substitute whole grains in your meals in place of processed grains for a much healthier diet.

Of the five senses bestowed, vision is considered to be one of the most precious. Healthy vision ensures that you witness all the wonders of the world; therefore, you must not take your eye health for granted. While some eye conditions are inevitable as we grow older, there are a few things that you can do to maintain your eye health. Here are seven tips to follow for lifelong optimal eye health. Eat vitamin-rich foods Diet plays an important role in keeping your eyes healthy. You must ensure that your meals are rich in vitamin C and E, zinc, lutein, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help prevent age-related eye problems like macular degeneration and cataract. Some healthy food options for eye health include leafy greens, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, eggs, nuts, beans, and citrus fruits. Wear sunglasses The right pair of sunglasses can protect your eyes from retinal damage, and reduce the chances of developing cataracts. It also protects your sensitive eyelid skin from wrinkles and skin cancer around the eye. To get these benefits, you must ensure that your sunglasses can provide 100% protection against UV-A rays and UV-B rays. Take breaks from screens Exposure to blue light from a computer, tablet, or phone screen for long can cause dry eye, eyestrain, neck pain, and headache.

Shedding of hair is a natural and common process of the body to get rid of old hair and promote growth. You may not even notice the few strands of hair that are replaced regularly by shedding and regrowth. However, sudden and excessive shedding results in hair loss. It can affect men and women of all ages and varies in terms of severity. The condition cannot be 100% cured with only treatment. But the following ways can help slow down shedding and prevent excessive hair loss. Don’t stress Stress is one of the main triggers of excessive hair loss. The body produces and releases certain hormones that regulate hair growth. Stress can cause a chemical imbalance in these vital hormones, which in turn, damages the hair follicles’ natural ability to regrow hair. Adopt practices such as eating healthy, exercising, staying hydrated, and controlling the urge to smoke or drink to manage stress. Instead, pursue healthy activities that can help you take your mind off something that bothers you and causes stress. Read, play sports, travel, and explore alternative lifestyles to manage stress better at work and home. Maintain a proper diet The food you eat plays a key role in your metabolic activity.

A pregnant woman needs more folic acid, calcium, and iron than usual. However, this does not make it necessary to eat twice. It is a common misconception that a pregnant woman must eat for two people. Making smart and healthy food choices that meet the daily dietary requirement of nutrients is more than enough. All that is required is to fine-tune eating habits so that the mother and the baby get sufficient nutrition for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Here are a few essential dietary tips for pregnant women. Never skip breakfast Breakfast is what keeps one going through the day. Fortified cereal with fruits is often a good option. These cereals are packed with added nutrients, such as folic acid, iron, and calcium. It is recommended to pick cereals with less or no sugar. In case there is morning sickness, and it’s hard to have a heavy breakfast, start the day with whole-grain toast. Then eat something later in the morning. Pick healthy snacks Hunger pangs between meals can be easily managed with light, healthy snacks. Fat-free or low-fat yogurt with low or no sugar along with fruits can be a filling snack. Another great option is whole-grain crackers with low-fat or fat-free cheese.