Eczema – Warning Signs and Home Remedies

Eczema – Warning Signs and Home Remedies

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that can affect anyone, irrespective of age and gender. It causes skin dryness and discomfort that can affect a person’s quality of life. Eczema has no definitive cure, but certain home remedies can help prevent flare-ups and control the symptoms. It’s recommended to start with a good skin care regime, along with other treatments, when its first signs start to show up.  Early warning signs of eczema The most important thing to know about eczema is its symptoms differ for everyone. It can also impact different areas of the body depending on an individual’s skincare routine.  Itchy skin This condition always begins with itchy skin. Eczema-related itchiness may range from mild to moderate. People with severe itchiness may even feel the need for constant scratching resulting in bleeding and inflamed skin. Rashes People with eczema may develop unique rashes in specific areas. They tend to have flaky skin that lets irritants and allergens penetrate the outer layer. This, in turn, causes an inflammatory response leading to redness and rashes.  Inflamed and discolored skin The area of the rash may get inflamed and swollen. There will be a noticeable discoloration which means the affected skin may look darker than the surrounding skin.  Scaly patches Scaly patches occur when the outer layer of the skin starts to form scales due to dryness. Home remedies The affected person can use a few home remedies to reduce the effects of eczema and its symptoms. Aloe vera gel Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that is extremely good for people with dry and sensitive skin. It has the potential to alleviate eczema symptoms. Aloe vera gel has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties and can help soothe irritated skin. Either prepare fresh gel at home or opt for a good vegan skin care product containing aloe vera gel.
Top 6 Travel Mistakes to Avoid

Top 6 Travel Mistakes to Avoid

Traveling is an excellent way to unwind and discover new places and cultures. However, it comes with a few challenges, like budgeting, packing, and finding a suitable hotel. Even though you might face unpredicted difficulties, you can make the most of your holiday if you plan things properly. Here are some common travel mistakes to avoid, whether you’re a nomadic explorer or a first-time traveler heading to an adventurous location. Packing too many things Don’t use a heavy suitcase when packing your stuff for the vacation. A heavy suitcase will put you under unnecessary stress and drain your energy. Even worse, you might develop a sore back by the end of the trip because of carrying that heavy load all along. Instead, use a bag with a lightweight material, and ensure it isn’t larger than necessary. Start with a carry-on bag and select the items you need. When making a list of your stuff, narrow your selections to the bare necessities. Also, keep your travel outfits neutral so that anything can be mixed and matched. This way, your clothes can be used for multiple activities, and you’ll have to pack only a few items. If you carry too many outfits, your hotel room will become messy, not to mention there will be way too much laundry waiting for you after the trip. Not buying enough local currency at the airport If traveling to another country, you’ll need their local currency to buy food, pay for transport, book hotels, or shop. So, after reaching the airport, change your native currency into the local currency. If you’re caught in a situation where you don’t have the local currency, you’ll have to use your credit card to pay the bills. This can become an expensive affair due to the high conversion rates. Also, many places, like small shops or local markets, may not accept credit cards.
10 Hidden Facts About Long Haul Flights

10 Hidden Facts About Long Haul Flights

Long haul flights usually last beyond 6 hours and cover over 3,500 miles. These flights can be exhausting since they cross multiple time zones, and passengers not used to it may feel jet-lagged. But some fascinating things can happen on these lengthy journeys. In this article, we’ll discover 15 surprising facts about long haul flights, the changes one’s body goes through, and share tips for surviving these long journeys. Secret sleeping area Crew members on long haul flights need some rest like the rest of the passengers and are provided with a secret bedroom. The bedroom allows them to nap or take time off serving and attending to passengers. This room by the cockpit contains a bunk and, at times, a private bathroom and can be accessed only by the cabin crew. Recycled air The air in a long haul flight cabin is passed through efficient filters and recycled with fresh air. The filters remove the bacteria and viruses and circulate back into the cabin after being mixed with fresh air. This process is done every few minutes, approximately 15 times an hour. A plane engine takes in massive amounts of air and compresses it to burn with the fuel and produce energy that moves the plane. Some of this air is cooled down and provides oxygen for the passengers to breathe onboard. Different planes for different routes Long-haul commercial flights usually use wide-body aircraft for flying. The route-planning experts decide which aircraft to use. This aircraft type also changes amenities like more legroom or smaller seats. Losing water from the body The air at a higher altitude is dry, and the human body tends to lose 8 ounces of water every hour while in flight. A long-haul flight of ten hours may lead to one losing approximately two liters of water.
10 Important Questions to Ask a Dermatologist

10 Important Questions to Ask a Dermatologist

There is so much information on skincare floating around – from beauty bloggers and magazines to old wives’ lore tales. Sifting through this to find what truly works for your skin can sometimes feel like a herculean task. What happens to your skin can sometimes indicate what is happening within your body. Here are a few questions to ask your dermatologist at your next appointment to improve your skin’s health and glow: How should I regularly prevent and screen for cancer? Skin cancer is a frequently diagnosed type of cancer in the country. Despite this, very few people get checked for the condition regularly. According to certain experts, when caught early, there is a 99% survival rate for those with skin cancer. That is why it is important to have a candid conversation with your dermatologist to discuss your risk factors and family history and possible ways of screening and prevention. How should I monitor my moles? Sometimes, your moles may be a cause of concern. It’s crucial to stay aware of any warning signs of skin cancer because no one knows your body better than you do. Follow the ‘ABCDE’ test to recognize signs of melanoma at home: Asymmetry : Is one half of the mole different from the other? Border : Does the mole have an irregular border? Diameter : Is the mole increasing in size? Elevation : Is the mole elevated from the skin’s surface? Color : Has the color of the mole changed recently, or is it exhibiting multiple colors? If any of these is a worrying factor, it is important to consult a dermatologist. What is my risk for skin cancer? According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 1 in 5 people in the country get skin cancer at some stage. Several factors can increase your risk for skin cancer, such as:
8 first-line treatments for atopic dermatitis in infants

8 first-line treatments for atopic dermatitis in infants

In dermatology, atopic dermatitis is a unique and uncommon condition emerging due to exposure to ionizing radiation. This specialized skin disorder presents a distinct set of challenges for those who experience it. This article explores atopic dermatitis from a third-person perspective, delving into its origins, symptoms, and treatment modalities. This article also sheds light on the intricacies of a condition that arises from the intersection of dermatology and radiation exposure. Some facts about atopic dermatitis in children Atopic dermatitis is a life-long (chronic) skin disorder common in infants and children. A child with a history of allergies or family members having atopic dermatitis has a higher chance of having atopic dermatitis. Itching, dryness, and redness are common symptoms. The treatment goals are to ease inflammation and itching of the skin, increase moisture, and prevent infection. Staying away from triggers is essential to manage the condition. The condition gradually improves or begins to disappear as a child gets older. Topical creams are usually the first line of treatment for children. Treatment options The management of atopic dermatitis is multifaceted, aiming to relieve symptoms, promote healing, and prevent complications. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s condition and may include the following approaches. Wound care and hydration Gentle cleansing of affected areas with mild, non-irritating cleansers is advised. Also, the doctor may suggest the application of emollients and moisturizers to alleviate dryness and itching. It is also recommended to use sterile dressings to prevent any possible infections in children. Topical solutions Doctors may prescribe treatments that may help with reducing inflammation and itching. Some ointments can be used in case any signs of infection are noticed. Always check with the doctor how often these treatments can be used and the quantity to ensure no side effects. Avoiding irritants Patients must avoid exposure to ionizing radiation and other potential irritants, including harsh soaps, detergents, and abrasive clothing, which can trigger reactions and flare-ups.
11 habits iPhone users should break today

11 habits iPhone users should break today

There are over 1.46 billion active iPhone users worldwide as of 2023, making it one of the most popular brands in the smartphone market. While the iPhone may be great, some unknowingly develop bad habits when using it, which affect the gadget’s overall performance, reduce its lifespan, and lead to unnecessary repair costs in the long run. Experts recommend breaking these habits today to keep the iPhone in top condition. Neglecting software updates One of the biggest mistakes is delaying or ignoring software updates. Many users think it is unnecessary to download and install updates on iPhones because they are known for providing good security out of the box. However, not performing this task can leave the device vulnerable to security threats and lead to compatibility issues with apps and services. Updates often contain essential security patches, bug fixes, and performance improvements. If someone finds it inconvenient to check for updates regularly, they can visit the Settings app on the iPhone and enable “Download iOS Updates” under the “Software Update” section. This handy feature downloads and installs updates automatically at a suitable time. Not backing up regularly Some users forget to back up the iPhone regularly or avoid it deliberately because it is time-consuming. Remember, a single crash or malware attack can result in significant data loss. The same can also happen if the device malfunctions, gets stolen, or someone clicks the wrong buttons. iPhone users risk losing photos, messages, contacts, and app data without regular backups. A simple solution here is to enable iCloud Backup or use iTunes/Finder to create regular backups of the internal storage. Always ensure the data is safe and can be restored if needed. Using unauthorized accessories Apple strictly advises against using unauthorized accessories to protect the hardware. Despite that, some opt for cheap, unauthorized chargers and cables to save money.
14 early signs of heartburn to watch out for

14 early signs of heartburn to watch out for

Heartburn is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The burning feeling in the chest caused by the onset of heartburn can cause discomfort. The condition can be temporary or chronic if left unmanaged. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. Recognizing the early symptoms of heartburn is crucial for timely intervention and effective management. Let’s look at the subtle indicators of heartburn. What is heartburn? Heartburn, known as acid indigestion or acid reflux, is a condition where the stomach acid rushes back up into the esophagus (a tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach, and it is not designed to handle the corrosive effects of stomach acid). The acid reflux generally leads to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. The primary reason behind heartburn is a dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It is a muscle ring situated at the bottom of the esophagus that normally acts as a one-way valve, allowing foods and liquids to enter the stomach while preventing stomach contents from flowing back up into the esophagus. When the LES weakens or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can escape into the esophagus, leading to heartburn. Early symptoms of heartburn Burning sensation in the chest This is a common sign of the condition, often erupting from behind the breastbone. This sensation may also be described as a sharp, burning, or aching pain. It typically occurs shortly after eating, especially when lying down or bending over. Regurgitation Another common symptom of heartburn is regurgitation. This also occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the throat or mouth, leading to a sour or bitter taste. Regurgitation can be uncomfortable and distressing for many. Sour taste in the mouth Heartburn may also cause a persistent sour or acidic taste in the mouth.
8 early signs of seizures

8 early signs of seizures

Seizures occur when changes in the brain’s electrical activity cause sudden changes in movement, sensation, awareness, thought, or behavior. Depending on the part of the brain involved, they are categorized into three main types – focal onset seizures, generalized onset seizures, and unknown onset seizures. Although seizures may present themselves differently and with varying intensities, recognizing their early signs is crucial for timely support and intervention. Some of the most commonly reported signs of a seizure include: Aura People who experience seizures often describe feeling an aura beforehand. This sensation can include a variety of feelings, such as visual, auditory, or olfactory sensations, pain, numbness, or headaches. Some examples of aura symptoms include a wave-like sensation that travels through the head, twitching or stiffening of the arm or hand, a feeling of falling or riding a roller coaster in the stomach, an unusual taste or smell, hearing unexplained sounds or music, experiencing sudden, intense emotions like fear, happiness, or anxiety, tingling or numbness, hallucinations, or seeing colored or flashing lights. According to research, around 65 percent of people with generalized epilepsy experience seizures. Auras can be a warning sign of an oncoming seizure, signaling that it may be time to seek assistance and move to a safer place. Changes in mood or behavior Another common early sign of a seizure is changes in one’s mood or behavior. This may include sudden feelings of fear, anxiety, or experiencing Déjà vu (a sense that something has happened before when it hasn’t) or Jamais vu (feeling like one is experiencing something for the first time, even though they know it well). These changes are typically seen in the prodromal (beginning) stage, making them an indicator of an oncoming seizure. Muscle twitching or jerking In the ictal (middle) stage of a seizure, one may also experience motor or movement symptoms.
12 common mistakes that can damage one’s smartphone

12 common mistakes that can damage one’s smartphone

In today’s fast-paced world, smartphones have become indispensable. These devices are one’s communication hub, entertainment source, and personal assistant. With an increasing dependence on these devices, it becomes crucial to use them correctly for prolonged longevity. However, many people inadvertently make common mistakes while handling smartphones that can affect their health and performance. So, here are some mistakes that can harm one’s smartphone and tips on how to avoid them. Not unplugging the phone When a smartphone stays plugged in even after the charging is complete, it experiences a continuous flow of electricity to maintain that charge, resulting in added strain on the battery. This can lead to excess heat, which ultimately contributes to potential damage. To preserve the battery’s health and longevity, it’s advisable to unplug the phone as soon as it reaches its charging potential rather than letting it remain plugged in unnecessarily. Charging the smartphone overnight Leaving a smartphone plugged in overnight might seem convenient, but it’s a mistake that strains the phone’s battery. This continuous charging, often called “trickle charging,” can lead to the battery slowly losing its capacity over time. It eventually leads to an overall diminished battery life and reduced performance. Letting the battery drain fully Many smartphone users may have the habit of using their device until the battery drains completely to 0%. However, this practice is detrimental to the battery’s longevity. Most smartphones have lithium-ion batteries, and if one allows them to drain to zero, it adversely affects the battery capacity over time. One is advised not to consistently let the charging reach 100% or drop to 0%. It’s recommended to maintain a regular charging cycle and charge the phone up to 80% for optimal performance. By following this practice, users can help extend the lifespan of their smartphone’s battery and maintain optimal performance.
9 common packing mistakes to avoid while moving

9 common packing mistakes to avoid while moving

While moving can be an exciting new chapter in life, the process leading up to it can require considerable preparation. One of the key steps in the process is packing, as it can take up a lot of time, effort, and planning. To ensure that packing goes as smoothly as possible, one must avoid a few mistakes. Further, a well-planned packing process can make the move, as well as unpacking after the move, easier. 1. Waiting until the last minute Delaying packing till the last minute is an important mistake to avoid, as it can add to the stress right before the move. Not dedicating enough time to packing can also lead to disorganization, as one may end up packing things randomly, making them difficult to find later on. To avoid such chaos, one must allocate enough time to packing and start with the process at least a few weeks before the moving date. This can not only give one enough time to organize their items before packing but also ensure that nothing is left behind. 2. Packing essentials too soon Another big mistake to avoid in the moving process is packing the essentials too early. One may need daily-use items like toiletries and certain clothes before and during the move. So, accidentally putting them away can add to the overall effort, as one may need to use them in the days leading up to the move. To avoid the unnecessary inconvenience of unpacking and repacking such items, one must set aside daily essentials and pack them at the very end in a separate, easily accessible storage container.  3. Choosing the wrong packing supplies Those who move often tend to use old containers and boxes. While this can be a good idea if the storage supplies are not too worn out, some old boxes can lose their structure and ability to hold weight over time.
Things That Make Home Look Messy and Hacks to Deal With It

Things That Make Home Look Messy and Hacks to Deal With It

Home renovation does not necessarily mean hiring contractors and spending a lot of money. However, it need not be as easy as hanging framed pictures and relying solely on seasonal decorations. Instead, the focus should be on identifying the best hacks that have a significant impact and upgrade the appearance of your home’s walls and furniture. This article discusses simple hacks for home upgradation. Read on to learn more about home upgradation. What makes your home look untidy? Before discussing some of the best home improvement hacks, let’s take a quick look at some things that may make your home look cluttered. Too many accessories When you have a few pieces tastefully displayed, it makes the place looks classy. However, when there are too many décor pieces stacked along each other, they make your home look overwhelming. Items not in their place Often there are small things that keep floating about the house. Though small, things like keys, purses, and shoes make homes look messier. This also includes laundry piled up in different rooms. Cables and cords An increasing number of appliances being used at home, like smartphones, tablets, and other electronic gadgets, also bring with them various cords. All these cables tangled together and lying in heaps make your home look messier. Papers and magazines Stacks of papers and magazines left out in different places, especially your tables, make your home look cluttered. They should be removed regularly and put away in baskets. Too much furniture Too many furniture pieces, especially oversized ones, make your home look unkempt and smaller. Removing those pieces that you don’t use will solve this problem. Open shelves Open shelves with all the items peeking out make the space look shabby. The best way to avoid this is to choose organizers with closed shelves to make the place look neater.
Top 9 Signs of Poor Blood Circulation and Management Tips

Top 9 Signs of Poor Blood Circulation and Management Tips

Human bodies rely on a complex network of blood vessels to deliver oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells. This intricate blood circulatory system is crucial to maintaining our health and well-being. However, poor blood flow can impact various aspects of one’s health, and early detection and timely intervention can prevent the issue from getting complicated. Here are some early warning signs and ways to improve blood flow with simple techniques. Dry skin Dry patches on the skin and cracks may emerge when blood circulation is compromised, which also affects the healthy skin’s capacity to regenerate new cells. Cells depleted of oxygen and vital nutrients because of poor circulation are likelier to age earlier than necessary. Additionally, impaired blood flow can cause the skin to look pale or darkened, indicating poor oxygenation. Hair loss Hair follicles depend on the blood to consistently deliver nutrients and oxygen to sustain healthy hair growth. Poor blood circulation to the scalp can deprive the hair follicles of these vital nutrients, weakening the hair and eventually causing hair loss. If one notices excessive hair shedding or a significant decrease in hair thickness, it may be worth investigating the possibility of poor blood circulation. Erectile dysfunction In men, poor blood circulation can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED). Erections rely on healthy blood flow to the penile region, enabling the tissues to engorge with blood. Reduced circulation can hinder this process, leading to difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection. ED can be an early warning sign of underlying cardiovascular issues that warrant medical attention. Varicose veins The veins’ valves may weaken or cease to function correctly when blood circulation is compromised, leading to varicose veins. These commonly show up on one’s legs. Look for veins that appear to be bulging or twisted. Varicose veins can cause symptoms in the afflicted locations, including soreness, heaviness, and aching.