Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver that can ultimately cause massive liver damage. The Hepatitis C virus (or HCV) causes the infection. The HCV virus has a few symptoms that distinguish it from other infections. There are different variations of the HCV, but the most common is the type 1 HCV, which will determine the course of treatment. HCV infection is contracted mainly via contaminated blood.
Individuals are exposed to the hep C virus in these cases:
Telltale symptoms of hep C infection include:
1. Jaundice
Patients infected with HCV may experience jaundice, in which the whites of the eyes and skin turn yellow in color. The urine may also present in a dark yellow or rusty color.
2. Clay-colored stool
Bowel movements may be affected by hep C, as a result of insufficient bile from the liver or a blockage in the bile duct of the liver. The stool may appear pale-white, putty or clay-like in color.
3. Stomach pains
The patient may experience a myriad of digestive issues and flu-like symptoms, such as nausea, fever, and fatigue stemming from the loss of appetite. Stomach pain with hep C can range from mild in the early stages, but usually worsens gradually over time.
4. Joint and muscle pains
Surprisingly, hep C may cause physical discomfort, achiness, and swelling in the joints, which can last in flare ups of 2 weeks to 3 months. The infection is responsible for this pain, as the body’s immune system is compromised in order to fight the virus.
5. Diagnosing hep C
Doctors will determine a formal hepatitis C diagnosis, first by identifying the above symptoms, followed by a blood test, which checks for the presence of HCV antibodies in the blood. The results take up to a week, and a positive test means that the patient is infected with HCV. Additional liver testing may be conducted to ascertain the extent of the virus, and the following treatment involves a prescribed dosage of the medication for a period of 8 to 12 weeks. Such drugs are Grazoprevir, Elbasvir, Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir or Pibrentasvir. The dosage and combination are as prescribed by the doctor.
6. Stages of hepatitis C
It should clearly be stated that the virus has various ways of affecting the patient with several stages involved, such as
An allergy is the reaction of the human immune system to a foreign substance (allergens). This substance may be harmless to most people. These allergic reactions vary from person to person and according to the allergen as well. These symptoms may be anything from mild to life-threatening. If you are suffering from any allergy, then you should be aware of the signs and symptoms of common allergies. With the advancement of technology, there are several prevention and treatment options available to tackle allergies.
The allergies are of different categories like a food allergy, pollen allergy, or a drug allergy. Here are some of the common allergies and the signs and symptoms of common allergies.
This is one of the very common allergies. Asthma is characterized by swollen and inflamed airways interiorly in the lungs. This inflammation is always present in some degree in the lungs and may be aggravated when the person comes in contact with the allergen in some way or the other. Some of the symptoms of asthma include coughing, shortness of breath, feeling of tightness in the chest, and wheezing. People with asthma may not be able to enjoy all sorts of physical activities to the fullest as these may be limited by the symptoms mentioned above.
Eczema is a condition characterized by itchy skin rash, which may form patches made up of small pink blisters or bumps. There are different types of eczema and the cause for only some of this is known. When there is an allergic reaction due to any external allergen, it is called dermatitis. Atopic eczema is very common in children, hence it is also known as infantile eczema. This allergy may also be affected by any other allergies like hay fever in the body. Some other symptoms apart from the rashes and pink bumps include dryness, flaky skin at the affected areas, skin peeling, fissures, and redness among the common ones.
This condition is characterized by the inflamed lining of the nose. Some of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy nose, and runny nose, among the others. Some of the allergens include dust mites, cats, dogs, and molds. Apart from these allergens that can affect any time of the year, there are also seasonal allergens like hay fever that can aggravate allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis may also lead to other problems like sinus and earaches.
The allergens for this category of allergy may differ from person to person and may include things like milk and nuts, among the others. Food allergy is a food hypersensitivity reaction. However, all food hypersensitivity reactions are not food allergies. Only those that affect the immune system are categorized as food allergy, the rest fall into the category of food intolerances.
While a person may develop allergies at any time in his life, most of the allergies start in the childhood itself. Staying away from the allergen as much as possible is the best way to avoid allergies. Keeping an anti-allergen handy is also important to avoid any adverse allergic reaction. Once you are aware of the signs and symptoms of common allergies, make sure you consult the doctor so that the effects of the allergies do not worsen the situation.
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!
