Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease. It results in the body’s immune system attacking healthy cells. As a result, one may develop inflammation (painful swelling) in various body regions, hampering their ability to carry out daily tasks. Rheumatoid arthritis is manageable with treatments and lifestyle alterations, but identifying it early could improve its effectiveness. Being mindful of these eight early warning signs of rheumatoid arthritis could help one seek early prevention. Fatigue Feeling fatigued after a night’s rest and without physical activity might require an expert’s opinion. The body utilizes energy to fight inflammation. Therefore, it may increase fatigue and tiredness while doing the same activities. Fatigue may negatively impact how an individual indulges in regular activities, relationships, and productivity at work. So if one notices this sign, they should speak with an expert immediately. Stiff joints in the morning Rheumatoid arthritis may also result in stiff joints, which may worsen when an individual wakes up in the morning. Since these joints may feel more flexible after some activity, one might overlook the sign. If it lasts 30 minutes or longer, one could identify this sign as a potential indicator of an RA flare. Apart from this, one may also experience stiffness that affects the wrists, hands, and feet joints.

The impact of high cholesterol on cardiovascular health cannot be underestimated. As an invisible threat, it often goes unnoticed until complications arise. However, with early detection and intervention, individuals can manage their cholesterol levels, mitigate potential risks, and adopt lifestyle changes that promote heart health and overall well-being. Here are the early signs that may indicate rising cholesterol levels, enabling individuals to take proactive steps to maintain a healthy lipid profile. Good vs. bad cholesterol The distinction between good and bad cholesterol lies in their respective functions and effects on the cardiovascular system. HDL or good cholesterol helps the body to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. This extra cholesterol is transported to the liver for disposal and plays a major role in lowering the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, LDL is considered bad cholesterol, which carries cholesterol to the body’s cells. If LDL levels are excessive, they can get accumulated in one’s arterial walls, leading to the formation of plaque and increased risk of heart disease. Signs of increasing cholesterol There are some early signs of high cholesterol levels that shouldn’t be ignored. Recognizing these symptoms and addressing them promptly can help manage cholesterol levels and improve overall energy levels.

Poor blood circulation can have severe consequences for overall health, especially regarding the heart. The heart plays a vital role in pumping oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, and any disruption in blood flow can lead to heart failure. Recognizing the warning signs of poor circulation is crucial for early intervention and prevention. From persistent fatigue to swollen limbs, these symptoms can indicate underlying issues that require expert attention. Fatigue Chronic fatigue is a warning sign that determines something is wrong with the body. It can also be an indication of poor blood circulation. Fatigue can arise from the compromised supply of oxygen and nutrients to various muscles and organs. If someone is experiencing persistent fatigue even after getting sufficient rest, it can be a sign to get blood supply, and other basics checked out. Chest pain or discomfort In the healthcare industry, chest pain or discomfort is referred to as angina. It is one of the most commonly recognized symptoms of cardiac issues associated with poor blood supply. It may manifest as a squeezing, pressure, or tightness in the chest. This pain can occur during physical activity or emotional stress and may subside with rest. Shortness of breath Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing is yet another classic symptom of heart problems.

Unbeknownst to many, having a heart attack can increase the risk of recurrent heart attacks among men and women. Several contributing factors, ranging from age to unhealthy lifestyle choices or certain health conditions, increase this risk. Therefore, older adults and people who have endured a heart attack must pay attention to the warning signs and symptoms of recurrent heart failure. However, more importantly, one must avoid making certain mistakes to prevent this condition. Working out excessively If forced to pump blood more excessively during any physical activity, the heart can fail at some point due to wear and tear. This risk is high among patients already diagnosed with cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure. Experts recommend at least 30 mins of physical exercise daily to keep the heart muscles strong. Not making lifestyle changes Healthy changes in daily nutrition and lifestyle will only help improve overall cardiovascular function. However, resisting change or not following specific nutrition and activity guidelines recommended by a healthcare expert increases the risk of heart failure, among other conditions. When coupled with unhealthy habits and poor lifestyle choices, this can result in chronic complications. Skipping prescriptions After an episode of heart attack or failure, one must follow prescription treatments suggested by a health expert without fail to keep the organ’s health in check.

Atrial fibrillation is a health condition that causes irregular heartbeats. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems such as blood clots, heart failure, stroke, and other heart-related complications. What one eats plays a huge role in regulating their heart health. While leafy greens and nuts are beneficial for the heart, some foods can cause or worsen atrial fibrillation. This article discusses 6 foods that can worsen atrial fibrillation. Read on to learn more. Beef and lamb Healthcare experts unanimously advise clients to avoid red meat to keep their hearts healthy. Beef and lamb top the list when one talks about red meat-based foods. Beef and lamb, like other red meats, tend to contain higher amounts of saturated fats than most other meat-based foods. Saturated fats raise a person’s cholesterol levels, negatively affecting their blood circulation and increasing the risk of atrial fibrillation and other heart diseases. Instead of consuming beef or lamb, one can eat plant-based protein foods to keep one’s cholesterol levels in check. Coffee Caffeine is another food that is bad for cardiovascular health. Caffeine-filled foods such as coffee and tea stimulate the body but are equally capable of triggering atrial fibrillation. Caffeine tends to increase a person’s heart rate.

Cholesterol is naturally produced by the body and is also found in regular foods and beverages. It’s a fatty substance stored in the body’s cells and produces vitamins or minerals to support vital bodily functions. The body stores both good and bad cholesterol so any imbalance in either levels can trigger high cholesterol. A buildup of high cholesterol can lead to severe health complications, making it imperative to identify the warning signs of the same. Signs of high cholesterol There are no direct symptoms of high cholesterol. However, high cholesterol does increase the risk of several underlying health complications that trigger the following discomforts. Discomfort in the chest High cholesterol greatly increases the risk of coronary heart disease. So, one might experience chest pain, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, and nausea, as a precursor. As cholesterol levels increase in the arteries, it causes a buildup of plaque, causing blockage. Cognitive problems Problems with cognition are also indicative signs of high cholesterol. As the plaque buildup increases blood pressure in the arteries, vital oxygen supply to the brain is cut off. This can result in loss of balance, coordination problems, dizziness, drooping eyelids, paralysis on one side, confusion, slurring, blurred vision, severe headaches, and even numbness.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, nearly half of all eye injuries happen at home. Whether it’s a cleaning product that burns your eyes or a potential hazard around your home, it is vital to be aware of potentially harmful household products that could hurt your eyes and affect your vision. Here are six products that you must take precautions with when using them to protect your and your loved ones’ sight: Cleaning supplies: Cleaning products often comprise chemicals such as ammonia, bleach, triclosan, and formaldehyde, which can lead to severe irritation, inflammation, and burning if they come into contact with your eyes. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before use. Avoid mixing two or more different products. When using cleaners, remember to keep the area well-ventilated to get rid of any toxic fumes, spray with the nozzles facing away from your face, refrain from using strong chemicals in small spaces, and use safety gear, such as goggles and gloves, when using products like oven cleaners, stain removers, degreasers, toilet cleaners, and other potent disinfectants. Mascara: Liquid eye products, such as mascara, can be home to many germs. Doctors recommend replacing these products every three months to reduce the risk of bacterial buildup that may cause eye irritation or inflammation.

Are loud snores keeping you up at night? Whether you are a sleep-deprived partner or someone who is bothered by their own snores, it is important to address the cause and find suitable solutions to get uninterrupted sleep. Snores are sounds triggered by obstructed breathing. From lifestyle changes to tried-and-tested remedies, various approaches can help clear the nasal passages. So, here are a few tips to follow for a quiet bedtime: Fix the sleeping position Sleeping on your back can worsen snoring, as it allows the tongue and soft tissues to collapse into the airway. Try sleeping on your side. You can get pillows designed to keep you in the correct position to breathe easily. Clear congestion Nasal congestion from allergies or colds can restrict airflow and cause snoring. Use saline nasal sprays, nasal strips, or a humidifier to keep your nasal passages clear and lubricated. Nasal strips are among the most common options to stop snoring, but they may not work for everyone. Stay hydrated Dehydration can lead to the production of thicker mucus, narrowing the airways and exacerbating snoring. So, drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your air passages moist. Follow a bedtime routine Establishing a regular sleep routine helps regulate the body’s internal clock leading to better sleep quality.

Are you finding it difficult to catch your breath lately? Breathing difficulty can be a significant cause for concern, and its symptoms should not be ignored. While common conditions such as asthma and COPD are widely known, several lesser-known lung conditions can also contribute to respiratory issues. In this article, we will explore five lung conditions contributing to breathing difficulties and learn the different approaches one can take to treat the condition. Lung conditions that can cause breathing difficulties Pulmonary hypertension Pulmonary hypertension refers to high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. This can strain the heart and cause breathing difficulties, fatigue, chest pain, and fainting spells. Pulmonary hypertension can be idiopathic or secondary to underlying conditions such as heart or lung diseases. Various treatment options may help widen the blood vessels, improve blood flow, and address the underlying cause. Chronic bronchitis Chronic bronchitis is characterized by inflammation and excessive mucus production in the airways and is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants. A persistent cough lasting at least three months in two consecutive years is the hallmark symptom of chronic bronchitis. Treatment involves bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and lifestyle modifications. Lung cancer Lung cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the lungs and can cause breathing difficulties as it progresses.

A viral infection can seem similar to a bacterial infection because of an overlap in their symptoms. However, viruses are much tinier than bacteria and need a host to survive, making treatment of viral infections differ from bacterial ones. Viruses can cause many diseases by attacking certain cells like those in the respiratory system, liver, and blood. Here are a few early signs of a viral infection that one can observe: Flu symptoms Fever, body aches, headache, and fatigue are some of the telltale signs of a viral infection like influenza. These symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may require immediate treatment. The symptoms here may develop suddenly instead of gradually, so it is important to seek a prompt diagnosis when one observes any of the abovementioned signs. Those with flu symptoms usually recover in less than two weeks, however, some people may experience serious complications like pneumonia. Upper respiratory symptoms Another common type of symptom to recognize is respiratory issues, like persistent sore throat, coughing, nasal congestion, and sneezing. Sinus or ear infections are some of the complications that can develop due to a viral infection. In severe cases, the virus can cause extreme inflammation in the respiratory system, which can lead to sepsis—the body’s extreme response to an infection.