Due to its incurable and terminal nature, cancer scares the living daylights out of everyone. People do their best to stay away from things that may cause them to develop cancers of any kind. There are many well-known carcinogens that healthy people actively avoid, such as soot, certain types of radiation, and cholesterol-heavy foods. However, there are many elements within one’s own house that can be carcinogenic in nature. Some such household items are: Room spray Formaldehyde is one of the most dangerous carcinogens out there. Room sprays contain this chemical, but most of them do not mention it in their ingredients list column. This is mainly because these sprays contain preservatives and chemicals that are scientifically termed “formaldehyde-releasers.” So, when these chemicals are inserted into a formula, they undergo a series of reactions and release the dreaded carcinogen. Apart from room sprays, one will find formaldehyde in face care and body care based makeup products. If possible, one can seek and purchase formaldehyde-free products and non-toxic room sprays to keep their house smelling sweet even without the cancer-causing element. Perfumes Just like formaldehyde, styrene is another chemical that can eventually cause cancer in people if they are exposed frequently to it. Fragrances are the most common products that contain styrene as one of its main elements. However, like formaldehyde, perfume manufacturers do not list this chemical in the ingredients of their products. This happens because perfumes contain hundreds of naturally occurring and artificial chemicals. However, IFRA (the International Fragrance Association, a global representative body of the fragrance industry) lists all the ingredients of the products their member fragrances use, and styrene makes nearly all those lists. To sidestep this problem, consumers can again purchase non-toxic perfumes that contain only organic elements. Insect repellents Nearly everyone has some or the other kinds of insects residing in their houses.

Parkinson’s disease is a severe brain disorder that may result in symptoms that are not noticeable in its early stages. However, the progressive disorder eventually damages the nervous system and various parts of the body controlled by the nerves. And while one could look for treatments to manage the disease, it isn’t easy to tell if someone has Parkinson’s disease because its symptoms may be similar to other health conditions. Here are eight signs that require the immediate attention of a healthcare expert. Loss of smell The loss of smell is usually associated with the onset of Parkinson’s disease. The individual might have trouble smelling foods like dill pickles, licorice, and bananas. The loss of smell (hyposmia) may result in reduced food satisfaction, which may degrade one’s appetite. It can lead to a reduced enjoyment of food and appetite. There are also other health conditions why one may lose their sense of smell, including a stuffy nose, cold, and flu. The individual may be able to smell foods once again when they get better. However, if the condition occurs suddenly, one should consult an expert for signs of Parkinson’s disease. Constipation The foods one eats may play a major role in overall health, especially in the gastrointestinal system. Therefore, eating unhealthy meals could result in digestive complications, including constipation. For example, insufficient water intake or fiber in a meal could lead to poor bowel movements. Even ongoing prescriptions may trigger constipation. However, according to experts, the symptom is also an early warning sign of Parkinson’s disease. The changes in the brain that cause stiffness and slow movement also affect the muscles involved in swallowing and pushing food through the digestive system. So someone with Parkinson’s disease may develop constipation because of the improper functioning of the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for regulating smooth muscle activity of the gut.

Living with arthritis can be a daily battle, as persistent joint pain and stiffness can hinder mobility and affect the overall quality of life. However, there is good news. With a comprehensive approach that combines evidence-based treatment methods, lifestyle modifications, and innovative therapies, individuals can find relief from arthritis symptoms and regain control over their lives. Combining these available treatment options with the right food can further help manage the condition. On that note, here are a few foods to avoid to manage arthritis: Refined sugar sources like soft drinks Limiting your sugar intake is of utmost importance. Therefore, consuming added sugar in foods, like bread, and beverages, like soft drinks, can be even more harmful to the system. It can contribute to elevated inflammatory symptoms in the body and further complicate your condition. Be aware of the extra sugar in the sweets you eat and the sauces and other condiments you top off your plate with. To keep the less-than-ideal arthritis symptoms under check, you must read the labels of the foods and beverages you bring home. Packaged foods are especially alarmingly rich in added sugar. Frozen pizza Per the CDC, frozen pizza is one of the most common sources of high sodium intake for Americans. It contributes to other complicating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Frequently feasting on frozen pizza can enhance joint pain and other arthritis-associated symptoms. Things can worsen if the pizza you enjoy has a thick, refined carbohydrate base, pepperoni, and salty seasonings. This is just a trifecta of foods that aggravate your symptoms. Dairy foods like cheese Dairy has always been touted as a friend of the bones. As kids, we were all taught about the importance of milk and milk products as rich sources of calcium and vitamin D. But what about the saturated fat and lactose content in foods like cheese and cream?

Mostly observed in those above 65 years, lung cancer starts from the small air sacs (alveoli) or the airways (bronchi or bronchioles). Its symptoms are not apparent in the early stages and are only diagnosed in the advanced stages. Being aware of the signs can help in seeking early diagnosis and treatment. Here’s all an individual needs to know about silent signs of lung cancer, its diagnosis, and various treatment options. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer The signs of lung cancer are often similar to that of other health disorders related to the lungs. So it becomes difficult to get a proper diagnosis in the early stages. However, it is best to take preventive measures and consult a doctor whenever these symptoms appear and do not go away for a long time. Persistent cough and hoarseness that does not go away Trouble breathing or shortness of breath Discomfort or pain in the chest Frequent instances of wheezing Coughing up blood Chronic fatigue or extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve even after resting Gradual changes in eating habits due to appetite loss, difficulty swallowing, abdomen pain, vomiting, or nausea Sudden formation of lumps or swelling anywhere in the body Chronic pain that is recent and caused due to unknown reason Changes in texture and color of skin where lumps have formed. This can include patchiness, scaliness, the formation of bumps or sores, and even bleeding. Unusual bruising or bleeding Sudden changes in bowel movements with frequent constipation or diarrhea that don’t get better Changes in bladder movement, including pain while passing urine or the presence of blood in the urine Experiencing night sweats and fever Frequent headaches Issues with vision or hearing Pain, numbness, bleeding, or sores in the mouth The signs mentioned above are some of the common ones observed in the case of lung cancer.

Stocking household essentials is a routine part of most homeowners’ weekly plans. While these items are indispensable to an optimally functioning household, not understanding their potentially harmful effects can cause several health hazards, including pulmonary issues. While buying household products, it is important to understand each product’s constituents and safe consumption practices to prevent them from causing health problems. This article lists household products that may be potentially harmful to one’s lungs if not used right: Household products potentially harmful to the lungs Hand sanitizer Hand sanitizers are highly effective in ensuring clean hands and destroying bacteria and germs, which may cause infections if ingested. However, sanitizers comprise several chemicals, including benzalkonium and methanol, and inhaling these chemicals can cause a host of health hazards, such as lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, loss of smell, chemical burns in the nasal cavity, and worsening of existing respiratory issues. Bleach spray Bleach spray serves a wide range of household functions, from eliminating mold and mildew from surfaces and fabrics to disinfecting surfaces and removing stains. However, bleach is a harmful chemical that can cause several health problems if not used properly. It is particularly known for increasing susceptibility to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) caused by blockage of airflow to the lungs. Studies have shown that bleach spray can increase one’s risk of COPD by 32%. Misuse of the product can also lead to lung and breathing conditions like asthma and damage one’s respiratory tract. Toilet paper This indispensable household product contains several toxic chemicals, such as furans and dioxin, which can trigger or worsen pulmonary conditions. For example, dioxin is proven to cause pulmonary deficiencies, including lung and breathing problems, and other health issues like skin lesions and headaches. Today, many individuals are swapping toilet paper with adult wet wipes, 100% bamboo paper, bidets, and other safer alternatives.

Heartburn or acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid flows back to the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation in the chest and throat. Certain foods, especially those that are spicy, processed, or fried, and several ongoing treatment options may contribute to heartburn or worsen it. Additionally, a few seemingly harmless daily habits can increase the risk of acid reflux. So, here are unhealthy habits that may trigger heartburn: Overeating Eating large meals or more than one requires is one of the biggest reasons for heartburn. When one eats, the food travels through the esophagus to the stomach. Between the mouth and the stomach, there is a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, which closes up when the food reaches the stomach. However, when one eats too much, the stomach stays distended, meaning it is unable to close due to the pressure of food inside of it. When the LES does not close, the extra food and stomach juices can easily travel back up through the esophagus, causing acid reflux or heartburn. Eating too quickly Being impatient with meals is another trigger for heartburn. Further, eating while lying down, eating too close to bedtime, having large meals frequently, and not maintaining enough gap between two meals to allow digestion are some other unhealthy habits that may trigger heartburn. Not engaging in physical activities According to height and other individual characteristics, there is an ideal body mass for each everyone. When the body mass exceeds the normal range, one may be at a higher risk of heartburn. In fact, certain studies suggested that those who experienced heartburn issues typically had higher body mass than those who did not. However, exercise too can trigger heartburn at times. This may happen due to increased pressure in the abdominal region while working out, especially those who lift heavy loads while exercising.

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, originates in the colon (large intestine), the final part of the digestive system. But in some cases, it can also begin in the rectum. In most cases, this condition affects older adults. However, one can develop it at any age. Fortunately, if diagnosed in the early stages, colon cancer can be managed and treated fully in some cases. Hence, knowing its warning signs is essential. Warning signs of colon cancer Here are a few warning signs that one should know: Persistent changes in bowel habits Most symptoms of colon cancer remain unnoticed until the later stages. This happens because most signs of this condition resemble those of other gastrointestinal diseases. This also includes sudden changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea. Besides this, one can also look out for alterations such as changes in consistency or narrowing of the stool. If any of these are noticed, one must note the duration of these symptoms. One must seek immediate medical attention if these last longer than a few days. Blood in stool Usually, blood can appear in the stool due to irritated polyps, benign growths that may become cancerous over time. So, while the color of the stool can change depending on the foods eaten, one must be wary of any sign of blood while passing stool. One must also pay attention to the color of the stool. If it resembles a bright reddish color accompanied by blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet, then one must consult a healthcare professional at the earliest. Pain in the abdomen Typically, changes in bowel habits can be accompanied by other warning signs of colon cancer, such as abdominal pain or discomfort. Although many health conditions can cause the development of pain or gas, this discomfort can sometimes manifest in the form of cramping or persistent pain with bloating in the area.

Parkinson’s is a neurological disorder that results in involuntary and unpredictable movements in the body, such as rigidity, tremors, and impaired balance and coordination. As the disease advances, these symptoms typically become more severe. Although there is currently no known cure for Parkinson’s, there are various strategies for managing the condition. Proper nutrition is a critical component of effective management, so consider the following dos and don’ts of nutrition and some promising new treatment options to explore. Role of nutrition While nutrition is important in general for a healthy life, those dealing with Parkinson’s should especially be careful of foods to eat and avoid. This is due to the complications that arise because of the disease. These can include complications like constipation. Due to the slowdown of the digestive system, constipation can be a regular occurrence in those suffering from this disease. Irregular bowel movements can be uncomfortable, but if constipation becomes severe, it can have a significant impact on the large intestine. Dehydration is another common concern of Parkinson’s patients, so extra care needs to be given to hydration needs. Dehydration can cause dizziness, tiredness, confusion, weakness, and kidney issues. When undergoing Parkinson’s treatment therapy, it is recommended to avoid high-protein meals. This is because it can cause the small intestine to overwork, leading to potential complications. Foods to eat Here are some foods and food groups one can incorporate in one’s meals to manage the disease. Fava beans Also known as broad beans, these beans are rich in a compound called levodopa. Levodopa is known to be a compound used in Parkinson’s treatment therapies and has helped in the management of the symptoms of the disease. It is suggested that increased levodopa and carbidopa in the blood can be linked with improved muscle movement performance. Salmon Doctors often advise people with Parkinson’s to include omega-3-rich foods in their meal plans.

Improved cancer screening and treatments have allowed people to live better lives even after developing cancer. However, even today, the condition is undiagnosed because people associate the early warning signs of cancer with another health complication. The symptoms of cancer may depend on where it grows. Mutations usually cause the growth to push against nearby organs, nerves, and blood vessels. Here are ten signs that may indicate the onset of the disease: Fatigue One of the most common signs of cancer is fatigue. However, people often associate this with a common sign of overworking the body, such as while playing a sport or after a strenuous day at work. But if one develops fatigue without physical exertion or even after appropriate rest, it might be an early sign of cancer. Cancer uses nutrients from the body to grow and advance, which affects the body’s ability to replenish healthy cells. This can lead to signs like extreme fatigue. Along with fatigue, it is common for an individual to notice a significant reduction in their body mass. Changes in a meal plan, taking prescriptions, or falling ill often because of cancer causes this. Fever One may develop a fever due to a cold or flu that may go away on its own over a few days or weeks. But if one is affected by a recurring fever, it could be an early warning sign of cancer. A few characteristics to watch for include a fever that surfaces only at night, unusual night sweats, and having no other signs of infection. Even other health conditions like a chronic cough or headaches that do not go away for more than two weeks might indicate the onset of lung cancer or a brain tumor. Excessive bruising It is normal to develop a bruise on certain areas of the body, such as the shin, due to injuries like bumping against a hard surface.

Most people believe dementia to be a single, specific disease. That’s far from the truth. The term dementia is used to describe a group of symptoms that affect cognitive, memory, language, and thinking abilities. Further, its severity can differ from one person to another. This means the condition can be mild for some and severe for others. Dementia can affect older adults, but the condition is not a part of the aging process. Symptoms of dementia Generally, the symptoms of dementia occur when healthy neurons in the brain stop functioning, lose contact with other cells, get damaged, or die. While the decrease of neurons is normal as one ages, in the case of dementia patients, the loss can be extreme. Here are some signs of dementia to look out for: Memory loss affecting day-to-day activities Sometimes, people can forget names, appointments, and even phone numbers, only to recollect them later. But for those affected with dementia, memory loss can affect daily activities. For instance, in the earlier stages, one may not recollect information they had learned recently. Besides this, patients can experience issues processing information and making decisions based on them, thus affecting one’s quality of life. And as the condition progresses, memory loss can become severe enough to hamper relationships. Trouble with language Another common symptom of dementia is language-related problems. Patients begin to demonstrate issues with finding words and making cohesive statements. This can make it difficult for the patient to communicate with others. Over and above this, some subtypes of dementia, like frontotemporal dementia, can cause patients to experience difficulties in understanding and using written or spoken language. This can lead to problems with word meanings and naming objects. Impaired judgment Typically, impaired judgment refers to an inability to make proper decisions. So, dementia patients may not be able to evaluate different factors to make an informed decision.