Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease, or more specifically a demyelinating disease, that damages the protective fatty layer (myelin) of the nerves located in the brain and spinal cord. It is this damage that creates the scars visible to the doctor through x-ray examination and creates the physical impairments suffered by MS patients.
Though the most telling signs that a patient is suffering from MS are determined by X-ray, there are several distinct physical symptoms to assist the diagnosis
1. Cognitive impairment
This issue of cognitive impairment in MS patients may manifest itself in the form of memory loss, inability to concentrate or maintain attention
2. Vision problems
MS patients often suffer blurry vision, double vision, or inability to control eye movement. This is due to optic neuritis, or inflammation of the optic nerve, which is responsible for vision
3. Tingling and numbness
Many MS patients experience an inability to feel or move their limbs or an unexplained feeling of pins and needles throughout the body. This is often the earliest sign caused by nerve damage and experienced in areas such as the face, arms, or legs, and often on just one side of the body
4. Pains and spasms
Known as spasticity, MS patients may experience bouts of unexpected back pain and muscle spasms because of an imbalance in the electrical signals transmitted from the brain and spinal cord once nerve damage occurs. These mixed signals often result in uncontrolled muscle contractions and tense muscles
5. Difficulty walking
Due to frequent numbness and muscle spasms difficulty walking is a common symptom for a patient suffering from multiple sclerosis as the disease progresses
6. Bladder and bowel dysfunction
The damage to nerves creates an inability for the brain to communicate to other organs within the body. For the multiple sclerosis patient, this may translate into frequent bathroom visits or an inability to use the bathroom as often as the body should
The frequency of MS symptoms experienced may vary from patient to patient. For instance, it is possible for the patient to go for periods of time without any symptoms even though the damaged neurons are not healed. Because the damage is still present and attacks upon the body continue, symptoms may reoccur at any time. Doctors often prescribe a combination of relapsing MS treatment to curb the recurrence of MS symptoms, which can include medications, physical therapies, diet changes, counselor sessions to curb stress, and exercise and sleep support.
Multiple sclerosis creates an inability to manage the body. Acknowledging the early signs of MS through testing will assist the patient with gaining a sense of control. Once diagnosed the patient can then concentrate on managing the symptoms.
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that distorts language, perception, thoughts, emotions and overall behaviour. What we consume in our daily diet has an impact on our health, both mental and physical. Patients living with schizophrenia work closely with their healthcare team to find therapies and medications that work. Diet and lifestyle may also play a huge role in mood stabilization and management of schizophrenia symptoms.
Some of the nutrition-packed foods that can help manage schizophrenia symptoms:
1. Fresh fruits and berries
Studies indicate that people with schizophrenia tend to consume less fibre. Most of their diet involves the consumption of fatty foods that are unhealthy. The fibre in fruits and berries absorbs the excess sugars and reduces the low-density lipoprotein (LDL), considered “bad” cholesterol. Low cholesterol and sugars keep diseases common to people with schizophrenia away, like heart failure, obesity and diabetes. A variety of fruits and berries rich in fibre include apples, bananas, raspberries, oranges and strawberries.
2. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are considered mood-boosting foods because they contain beta-carotene, which reduces free radicals damaging brain cells. They help reduce stress levels which is a common symptom in people with schizophrenia. It being a carbohydrate, plays a part in the release of serotonin, a happy hormone.
3. Fatty Fish
Based on research, omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish products are useful in lowering some of the symptoms experienced by people with schizophrenia. Omega-3s cannot be produced by the body, which means adding fatty fish to your diet is the way to acquire the nutrient. For those who are not fish lovers, you can consult your physician on getting omega-3 supplements.
4. Shellfish
Making a norm of consuming seafood like shellfish, oysters, crabs, or lobsters helps reduce bodily levels of inflammation, which may be an issue for patients with schizophrenia. Shellfish also contains high levels of zinc, which experts have found to be low among people with schizophrenia.
5. Spinach
Spinach is the leafiest of the green vegetables available at the grocery store. It contains folic acid or rather has a rich source of folate. Folate is useful in synthesising DNA and neurotransmitters, which play a key role in brain activity. You can add it to your diet by making juices or steaming on low heat.
Research has shown that adding healthy foods to your diet like vegetables, salmon, chicken marinara, clams and cod liver oil alongside medication helps improve schizophrenia symptoms. Diet cannot replace doctor-prescribed medications, like Caplyta and Inveg Sustena, to treat schizophrenia, but having a healthy diet may help improve overall mood and physical health.
Fashion is such an individualized thing. Everyone is different and therefore everyone has personal preferences when it comes to different types of dresses. One thing is true though; it’s important to have at least one versatile and flattering dress in your wardrobe. When determining what type to choose, there are several styles to consider that can be appropriate for different types of events and different figures.
Women today attend many events that require dressing up for the occasion. These may include weddings, dates, parties, work events, and brunch. When looking to buy a dress to suit a wide range of occasions, here are some flattering options for all ages and body types:
1. Wrap dresses
Wrap dresses are exactly what they sound like. These dresses are pulled together with a front closure. One side of the dress is wrapped across the front and then either goes behind the back part of the waist to either be attached by buttons or tied. The construction of this dress creates a v-neck front. It also accentuates the curves of the wearer in the chest area.
2. Maxi dresses
Maxi dresses are a great option for many occasions. They are long and go to the floor. Generally, they are designed to fit the body on the top, and then be flowy and long on the bottom. The fun thing about them is they can feature many different necklines and come in various patterns and colors. This makes them very individualized to the person.
3. A-Line dresses
A-line dresses are named after the shape they take on the body, which is an “A”. They fit to the top part of the body and begin to flare gradually out at the waist and hips, becoming wider as the hem progresses. A-line clothing can be found not just in dresses, but also in coats and skirts.
4. Little black dresses
Everyone has heard of the little black dress. This is such a versatile option that can be found in your closet. It can be dressed up or down for numerous types of events. As a general design, it is usually a simple dress that tends to be quite short. The elegance and simplicity create a fairly blank canvas that allows you to create the exact type of look that you want. Many designers provide limitless options for this much-needed wardrobe essential. Victoria Beckham cocktail dresses are one good brand to consider.
5. Mini dresses
A mini, or short dress that hangs just above the knees is a common style. This design became popular in the 1920’s. It was later revitalized in the 1960s, and has remained an integral part of many wardrobes ever since. A mini shift style dress is a loose-fitting dress that is very comfortable and does not fit tightly around the waist or any part of the body. It is loose at both the hips and the waist so the dress falls loosely down from the shoulders all the way down to the bottom of the dress. Darts are generally located in the bust area. It is a straight silhouette that can be flattering for those that have bodies that are shaped more like a column and it also elongates petite figures as it shows off the legs.
When shopping for dresses, every designer has his or her own individual interpretation. It is fun, and a great idea to look at the individual designers and fashion forward celebrities to find the one that fits your aesthetic most closely. Also, remember that designers also have many other clothing options. As an example, when looking at what stars wear, like Kourtney Kardashian or Victoria Beckham (blouses, skirts, dresses and pants), you might find a designer that the star tends to wear a lot that you can draw inspiration from.
The right handbag can really accentuate your outfit of the day. There are also many styles and functions for different handbags. You could have a handback that works as a daily driver – a bag that you take to run errands or to the store. You could also have a bag that’s perfect for traveling or for a night out. Whatever the case may be, these are five handbags that are sure to be everywhere this season:
1. Versace Chunky Chain Bag
This Versace bag features a chunky chain which really is the stand out feature on this bag. The chain provides a cool effect when you wear it, that really draws your eyes to it. In typical Versace fashion, the chunky chain bag is made of high quality materials and is a great value for the price.
2. Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag
The Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag is another bag you’ll be seeing a lot of in 2021. This bag is one of the top trends in handbags right now, and for good reason. The Lanvin quality is apparent and you can really wear this on any occasion, formal or casual.
3. Stella McCartney Hobo Bag
The Stella McCartney Hobo bag has a relaxed look about it. It appears slightly slouched in nature, which provides a really cool effect. This bag can be dressed up for a nice, formal event or dressed down for a nice casual day. This bag is incredibly versatile and provides enough room for all of your belongings. It has two slip pockets and an interior compartment for maximum storage. This is one bag that can really do it all.
4. Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag
The Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag is extremely trendy right now, and for good reason. The bag features a scale like pattern which is the standout feature. It also features a shoulder strap for great versatility and a super comfortable wear. The bag features high quality materials and enough room to keep all your belongings stored nicely. This bag leans a bit casual but is a great bag if you’re looking to make a statement throughout the day.
5. Fendi Fluffy Feathers Bag
The Fendi fluffy feathers bag is a bag that’s sure to make a statement. This bag is made of high quality materials, in typical Fendi fashion. The fluffy feathers bag is covered in ostrich feathers. This bag is incredibly unique and will turn all the heads. It’s also very versatile in that all of the straps are detachable so you could wear this as a shoulder bag or as a little handheld purse. When you pair this with a stunning dress, you will be sure to turn heads at any formal event or night out on the town.
These bags can be found at many of your favorite retailers and department stores. Make sure to shop Saks Fifth Avenue bags for the latest in deals and trends for the 2021 year.
Jewelry is the one of the best accent pieces for any outfit you choose to wear. The right necklace, or the right bracelet, can really put the finishing touch on an amazing outfit. You may opt to wear a necklace on a night out, or a set of bangles to run some errands. Either way there are a few styling hacks to help maximize your jewelry. Here are six jewelry styling hacks to follow:
1. Use earrings for a pop of color
It can be a great idea to match a few pieces of jewelry, however, when they’re all very similar in style and color, they can really blend together. To solve this issue, try using earrings to create that pop of color. Earrings can really balance out an outfit
2. Know when it’s too much
Jewelry can provide a great accent to your favorite outfit but you need to be careful you don’t overdo it. By having too much, you’re really taking away from the effect your jewelry adds to your outfit
3. Personalize with statement jewelry
Something like customized wrist bracelets can be super personal. This can be a piece that no one has that truly stands out on its own. These are often hard to duplicate because they’re one of a kind and customized. Check Kay Jewelers clearance sale and see if there’s anything that you could customize and make truly unique
4. Minimal jewelry with patterned clothing
When your outfit is full of patterns, it’s already incredibly loud. Something like stripes or plaid can be a super powerful statement in itself so when picking out jewelry, make sure to keep it minimal. When it’s overdone it can have the opposite effect of what you’re looking for. One simple necklace or bracelet can be a nice, quick addition to a loud outfit with many patterns
5. Create layers with necklaces and bangles
Sometimes when we wear jewelry it can be hard to get the most out of it. Sometimes our jewelry is too thin and won’t really pop with our outfits. That’s where layering comes into play. By layering bangles you can create a super nice, textured set of bracelets that will surely stand out. With necklaces, you want to look at the style and length. By mixing and layering different necklace lengths, you can create the illusion of a much bigger piece and have them all flow together seamlessly. Either way, you really can’t go wrong with layering
6. Mix metals in jewelry
Most jewelry is made of various metals like gold, silver, and platinum. By combining different metals, you can really make them pop. When mixing and matching gold and silver you really create a palate with different colors and materials. It helps them stand out. When you wear all your jewellery in one material or one color, the pieces tend to blend in with each other. Mixing metals will help your pieces to really make a statement
When choosing jewelry, make sure to follow these 6 hacks for best results!
