Cars are complex machines that include several components and panels. This is why, cleaning cars can be a deceptively complicated thing to do. Unsurprisingly, people make several common mistakes while washing their cars. These mistakes can somewhat spoil a vehicle’s appearance. Many individuals rely on automobile cleaning professionals to get the job done for them. Nevertheless, if one chooses to clean their cars by themselves, here are some of the common cleaning mistakes to avoid: Washing a car under direct sunlight A common misconception associated with cleaning cars is that doing it under direct sunlight is effective as the heat helps dry the surfaces quickly. However, doing so actually spoils a car’s appearance. When one cleans a car and leaves it under the blazing sun, the water evaporates faster than one can wipe the watermarks off. This leaves the watermarks on the car’s body and, after they dry, the watermarks tend to give the car’s body a flaky appearance. Instead, one can simply wait for the cooler times during the day to clean their vehicle. If possible, one should use the early morning or late evening period to do the job. Also, one should avoid keeping their vehicle out in the sun for too long. A car cover can help in the absence of a shaded parking lot. Washing parts in the wrong order One might wonder what the order of cleaning has to do with the overall washing process. The answer’s quite simple: the tires are the dirtiest components of a car, so washing them last can result in sand and mud getting stuck onto the body, which one may have cleaned first. To avoid double work, people can wash the tires first, followed by a quick rinsing of the overall body with water to get the dirt out.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as COPD, is a term used by healthcare professionals to refer to a group of lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Over time, COPD can cause patients to experience breathing difficulties. While one cannot reverse the lung damage, patients can make certain lifestyle changes to manage the condition and its associated symptoms. Continue reading to learn more about the symptoms and treatment alternatives of COPD. Symptoms of COPD Generally, the symptoms of COPD do not make an appearance until the condition has progressed significantly, leading to extensive lung damage. Furthermore, the continuation of certain poor habits can make the condition worse over time. Here are some of the signs of COPD mentioned below. Tightness in the chest One of the most common symptoms of COPD, chest tightness, can manifest in different ways across patients. While for some it can be noticed in the form of breathing difficulties, for others it can feel like a weight on the chest. This can increase the risk of pain while breathing. Some of the main causes of the issue are damage to lung’s air sacs, airway obstruction, respiratory infections, and bronchospasms. Wheezing This symptom of COPD is often accompanied by tightness in the chest. One of the best ways to differentiate wheezing from breathing difficulties is to look for a high-pitched whistling-like sound while inhaling or exhaling. Usually, this symptom is brought on by damage to the lungs and airways, where the body part swells and gets clogged by mucus. Some of the main reasons for this symptom are prolonged exposure to dust, polluted air, chemicals, and fumes. Chronic cough Another prevalent symptom associated with COPD is cough. Patients can experience a dry cough or cough accompanied by phlegm or sputum. In most cases of COPD, the cough is brought on by the inflammation and thickening of lung tissue.

Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder characterized by extreme moods, either significantly high or low. The high periods are referred to as mania or hypomania, and the low moods are called depression. However, the moods can sometimes be concurrent, meaning individuals with bipolar disorder may have manic and depressive symptoms at once. The condition is usually difficult to diagnose; however, some signs can detect bipolar disorder early, and treatment can be started accordingly. Types and symptoms Often, the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder overlap with those of other conditions, so it becomes difficult to diagnose it timely, which can delay treatment. However, there are now some criteria laid out by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders that help recognize bipolar disorder. There are four types of bipolar disorders, and the symptoms vary according to the type of the condition. These are as follows: 1. Bipolar I This type is diagnosed when the individual experiences manic episodes. The symptoms are as follows: This includes a significant shift in the behavior and mood of the person. These mood changes are often unlike the person’s personality or usual behavior, making it evident that something is wrong. A manic episode is also considered manic when it is present most of the day and nearly daily. So, it is not a once-in-a-while episode, but it happens almost daily and often. These episodes last a week or are so severe that hospital intervention is needed, and then they are recognized as manic episodes. Those dealing with bipolar I disorder also experience depressive episodes. However, according to the criteria, bipolar I is only diagnosed when the abovementioned symptoms are experienced. Other symptoms may overlap and hinder treatment and management therapies. 2. Bipolar II This type of bipolar also has high and low moods; however, depressive episodes are more frequent and likely to be crucial in diagnosing bipolar II.

Gadgets make up a huge part of Black Friday deals during the shopping weekend. Laptops are among the most popular categories, as many brands offer huge discounts on these expensive products. Shoppers are advised to always look out for any sales announcements closer to the sale season, and while there is no update yet on Black Friday 2023 deals, here are last year’s deals to get an idea of what to expect this year. Asus The brand is primarily known for its hardware for gaming and eSports. Hence, laptops are a popular product during the sale season because shoppers, especially gamers, wait all year for exclusive discounts. Some of the popular deals from last year included the following: 1. The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 was on sale at Best Buy for $1,399. The original price of the laptop was $1,899, and as it is known to be a beast of a laptop for gaming purposes, it was a big discount for shoppers interested in gaming. It comes with a 14-inch display screen and a refresh rate of 120 Hz, which allows for smooth streaming. The AMD Ryzen 9 6900HS CPU has 16GB of DDR5 RAM. It also has an AMD Radeon RX 6800S GPU for gaming purposes. 2. The Asus Chromebook Flip C536 is a more affordable option, also sold on Best Buy for $369 when the original price was $569. Even though this comes under premium Chrome OS laptops, it is still more affordable than other available options. The 15.6-inch touch display helps with clean and vivid visuals, and it has a 128GB SSD, which is rarely seen in other Chromebooks on the market. Lenovo Some of the popular deals from this brand from last year included the following: 3. With the coupon code “IDEABFNOW,” shoppers could get the Lenovo Slim 7 14, which was on sale on the official website for $927 when the original price was $1,259.

Investing in a new pickup truck is a huge and costly decision that requires thorough research and planning, right down from choosing the correct model, brand, and size to knowing about one’s financing options. It is very easy to make mistakes and overlook certain things, making one regret their purchase decision. Here are a few mistakes one needs to avoid when selecting and signing the ownership agreement for a new pickup truck. 1. Failing to consider cabin size Choosing a pickup truck with the wrong cabin size is a major mistake, as it does not serve the purpose. For instance, a small cabin might not be able to seat enough people, or a cabin with too much room can cause someone to tumble or skid sideways at a sharp turn. Multiple pickup truck options are available, including regular cabins, crew cabins, and extended cabin sizes. Depending on their needs, drivers can select if they want a proper, spacious seating option for two people or four people. The thumb rule is to consider the number of passengers frequently traveling in this pickup truck. Of course, selecting a pickup with a smaller cab can help save money, but saving some dollars is not the only goal, especially if it can lead to purchasing another pickup truck because of the wrong selection. 2. Selecting the wrong engine Nowadays, trucks have much more to offer than they did back in the day. The biggest choice in terms of the engine is to select between an eight and a four-cylinder. This is important because the wrong choice could compromise the budget or the towing capacity. Going with a truck engine with a higher capacity also means spending extra, not just for the purchase but also for fuel and maintenance. This is a strict no-no, especially if the driver does not require what the sticker price offers.

Whether new or used, buying a car is a huge investment. With growing inflation, more people than ever have been opting for pre-owned cars, as it can significantly reduce ownership and insurance costs. However, these can come with their issues, such as wear and tear or negligent maintenance. Check out these ten common mistakes people make when buying a used car and easy ways to avoid them for a better experience. Skipping the test drive Many buyers do not take the car out for a test drive before they buy it. While one may do this as a vote of confidence or faith in the dealer, it could lead to potentially expensive repairs in the future. Before buying a used car, it is always a good idea to test drive a few. If possible, work out a deal for a longer test drive, say 30-40 miles, where the car can be tested in different traffic and road conditions. This will help one build a clearer understanding of what the car’s ownership and performance would look like. Leaving financing to the last minute Before heading out to buy a used car, one needs to figure out how they plan on paying for it. This could involve opting for financing in the form of a loan. To negotiate better terms, have a pre-approved financing solution ready. Some dealerships also offer financing, but this may be more expensive than other lenders, such as banks. Shop around to find the best rates that fit within the budget. Shopping based on monthly payments Of course, money is one of the most crucial facets when it comes to buying a car. However, shopping based on monthly payments alone could cost more money in the long run. Check all loan and payment details carefully before finalizing the purchase.

Food prices are on the rise, and eating healthy may seem like a task given the hefty bills after a run to the grocery store or a dinner out with friends. That said, there are definitely ways to eat wholesome and satiating meals without dipping into one’s savings. For this, one needs to plan ahead and shop strategically. Here are a few other tips that can help one eat healthy food on a budget: 1. Buy whole foods Whole foods, or foods that aren’t processed to change their structure, can be surprisingly affordable. For instance, a pack of canned beans costs less than a pack of refried ones. Similarly, a block of cheese is much cheaper than shredded cheese. Consider buying whole fruits and vegetables instead of pre-chopped and packed salads. When considering per-serving costs, whole grains, oats, and brown rice are cheaper than most processed cereals. Additionally, buying fruits and vegetables that are in season is also a great way to incorporate soluble and insoluble fiber into one’s meals. Fruits and vegetables that are available all year tend to be a tad expensive.  Also, picking seasonal produce means that it is packed with nutrients and flavors. Moreover, buying produce by bag is a budget option rather than buying per piece. If one buys more than needed, they can always store it in the refrigerator and use it later. 2. Buy cheaper cuts of meat Most people buy fresh meat, fish, and poultry to add some much-needed fat and protein to their meals. However, fresh meat and fish are incredibly expensive. Fortunately, there are ways to incorporate protein into meals without having to spend too much money. Buyers can opt for specific cuts of meat that are not as pricey as certain others. Chuck steak, pork top sirloin steak, ground meat, poultry, and whole chicken are a few options to choose from.

Parents and caregivers play an important role in children’s lives by helping them cope with emotions and manage behavior. This is because children often emulate the adults around them. The kind of care that children receive plays a functional role in their development and how they interact with others. Certain situations at home, such as neglect, can impact a child’s behavior. Some common behavioral issues and warning signs that point toward child neglect are discussed below: 1. Frequent emotional outbursts Children can often be irritable in certain situations. However, it is not the same reaction as that of those who have been neglected. It is natural for children to get cranky when they cannot express what’s bothering them. That said, children who face neglect from their parents or caregivers can become volatile and struggle to regulate their emotions. They might take out their anger on teachers, friends, and peers. Children who are neglected may also find it difficult to connect with their peers and communicate effectively.  2. Absenteeism or drop in academic performance Emotionally neglected children might also be frequently absent from school. Or, they might have a hard time trying to pay attention and focus in school. This could be due to a lack of a proper sleep schedule. Not having a curfew or bedtime routine can impact their sleep cycle and cause them to be constantly tired or fall asleep during school hours. Lack of sleep can also make it difficult for children to study and focus on an assigned task, negatively reflecting their school performance. Additionally, parental absenteeism or insufficient supervision with homework or assignments can result in poor performance in school. 3. Low self-esteem Lack of self-esteem is another warning sign of neglect in children. Children are dependent on their caregivers, and their early self-perception is primarily shaped by how their caregivers or authority figures see them.

Bathroom remodeling can be complex and require more time, effort, and resources than people usually estimate. There are many ways and designs to renovate the space so it fits one’s needs perfectly, but it’s important to consider all aspects of the project before starting it. These include plumbing, electrical work, structural changes, etc. Making mistakes during the estimation or execution process can cost one dearly. Therefore, here are some common bathroom remodeling mistakes one must avoid. Not planning ahead Bathroom renovation projects require thorough planning and consideration due to their complexity. Plumbing, electrical work, flooring, surface materials, ventilation, and layout all need careful attention to ensure success. Before taking up the project, one should shortlist the layout, the final look and feel of the space, one’s usage and storage solutions, the budget, and the timeline for completion. Not only this, but in the case of residential or personal projects, one should also consider alternative bathroom arrangements while the current bathroom is being remodeled. Not consulting professionals Before starting a project, one should consult professionals to create a well-thought-out layout. Professionals are often more experienced and understand the intricacies of the project that DIYers may not be aware of. This may include functionality, aesthetics, and compliance with building codes. Even in tasks that seem as simple as bathroom wall painting, one needs to be aware of the plumbing, flooring, and surface materials. This is because some paints may block and cause ventilation problems. Taking the time to plan and iterate different layouts can prevent costly mistakes and ensure a satisfactory outcome for the bathroom remodel. Not visualizing the final outcome At times, one may love a certain paint color and tile design that do not necessarily go together in the bathroom. While the individual elements and styles may look amazing, it’s important to visualize the final outcome.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that affects one’s joints. In some cases, it can also damage several other body systems like blood vessels, the heart, lungs, eyes, and skin. It is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when your immune system starts mistakenly attacking your body’s tissues. The condition affects the joint’s lining, resulting in painful swelling, which can later cause joint deformity and bone erosion. Here are some treatment measures for rheumatoid arthritis: Treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis Actemra® It is a prescription, FDA-approved biological therapy for relief from rheumatoid arthritis. Actemra ® helps lower the inflammation in the body by directly blocking the action of a protein in your body called interleukin-6 (IL-6). Your doctor may administer it as a subcutaneous or intravenous injection. The former is administered at home or at a medical facility, but the latter is given solely at a medical facility. Plaquenil It is an FDA-approved prescription treatment that helps treat acute and chronic rheumatoid arthritis. It helps manage symptoms such as stiffness, inflammation, joint pain, and swelling. It is to be taken exactly as per the recommendation of one’s primary healthcare professional. Rinvoq® Rinvoq ® helps treat moderate to severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis in adults when tumor necrosis factor blockers were used but could not be tolerated or did not work well. This treatment option can affect your immune system adversely, making you susceptible to fatal or severe infections. So, get in touch with your doctor if you experience weight loss, diarrhea, skin sores, cough, tiredness, fever, aches, chills, or a burning sensation while urinating. Trexall It is a treatment measure for severe rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It is an antimetabolite treatment. Trexall not only helps manage swelling in the joints, but it can also help decrease damage to them and any long-term disability due to the condition.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes swelling and inflammation of the airways. It is estimated that more than 339 million people worldwide suffer from this disease. It affects people of all age groups, and genders. However, it is more common in adult women than in men. Asthma has no specific underlying cause, but various allergens like pollen, dust, mold and even perfume can trigger asthma. Read on to learn more about the condition. What is uncontrolled asthma? Uncontrolled asthma is when affected individuals have persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life, even when they are on regular medication. It is estimated that over 60% of adults who are asthmatic suffer from uncontrolled asthma.  Causes of uncontrolled asthma Stress People may experience asthma attacks due to excessive stress and strong unpleasant emotions like unhappiness or crying. One must try to reduce one’s anxiety and stress. Underlying health condition Some respiratory health conditions like sleep apnea that block the upper airway while sleeping can lead to an asthma flare-up. Environmental allergies could also worsen asthma attacks. Weather change Moving from drier to humid air or warmer to colder air might cause asthma attacks. This condition can be brought on by minor weather changes or leaving a controlled environment.  Looking at the global statistics, the prevalence of asthma is observed more in the country. The below-mentioned cities were ranked based on parameters like asthma prevalence, asthma-related emergency room visits, and asthma-related deaths. Here are the top five cities in the country with the highest number of asthma cases: Detroit, Michigan Detroit is the largest city in Michigan and is the center of the automobile industry in the country. The metropolitan area is densely populated with 4.3 million people. The atmosphere of Detroit has high levels of pollen and particulate matter from the industrial facilities and power plants that run on coal.

The bladder is a critical organ in the urinary tract that stores and releases urine. Any problem in the bladder can lead to discomfort, pain, and even infections. Therefore, it is essential to take good care of this organ. Besides following a healthy lifestyle, adding nutritious foods to the meal plan can contribute to maintaining optimal bladder health. Here are some of the best foods to eat for a healthy bladder. Bananas Bananas are an excellent source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health and lower the risk of constipation. Preventing constipation is necessary because it can cause bladder irritation and increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bananas are also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help soothe the bladder. Winter squash Winter squash and other squash varieties like butternut, acorn, and pumpkin are excellent sources of potassium, which is vital for maintaining kidney and bladder health. High-potassium foods can reduce the risk of UTIs and bladder irritation. Winter squash, in particular, is also low in sodium, which can help lower inflammation and prevent the kidneys from working overtime to flush out the extra salt from the body. Yogurt Yogurt is a good source of probiotics, beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and help promote a healthy immune system. Studies have shown that probiotics can help prevent UTIs by maintaining a healthy balance of microbes in the urinary tract. Green tea Green tea is a great home remedy for the bladder and overall health. It is a rich source of antioxidants that can prevent oxidative damage in the body. But one must drink this beverage in moderation and choose water for better hydration. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and waste products from the body, keeping the bladder clean and healthy. It also helps prevent UTIs that increase the risk of bladder problems.